ADDITIONAL W.P FOR INT'L STUDENTS - NEW POLICY

International students contribute over $21 billion annually to Canadian economy and supporting the vitality of Canadian communities. 

Many holders of a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), the pandemic’s disruption and uncertainty have jeopardized their chances of obtaining the work experience they need to apply for permanent residence. 

As part of the Government of Canada’s efforts to support international students through this challenging time, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today announced that former international students who hold or held a PGWP will have the opportunity to apply for an open work permit.

Foreign nationals in Canada affected by the pandemic with an expired or expiring PGWP will have a unique chance to apply for another open work permit. These will be valid for 18 months and allow former international students to remain in Canada, continue to seek employment and build their future in this country.

More than 58,000 graduates successfully applied to immigrate permanently in 2019, and their decisions to stay in Canada will help to address our stark demographic challenges.

This new policy will help more graduates fill pressing needs in areas like health care, technology and more. 

Quote from: —The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

“This means that young students from abroad who have studied here can stay and find work, while ensuring that Canada meets the urgent needs of our economy for today and tomorrow. Our message to international students and graduates is simple: we don’t just want you to study here, we want you to stay here.”