Study Abroad in Canada: Canadian Government Extends International Students’ Work Permits for 18 Months

Under the new immigration guideline for international students, Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders who are eligible for postgraduate study in Canada can extend their work permit from April 6, 2023, onwards. PGWP holders will be informed about the same through their online accounts.

Graduates whose work permits will expire in 2023 or have expired between September 2021 and December 2022 can restore their status, even if they have exceeded the 90-day restoration period. Those who apply for an extension will receive an interim work authorisation during the waiting period. After the processing of the new work permit, they will get an extension of 18 months.  

This decision is a part of the 2022 PGWP extension programme of the federal government. In the 2022 extension programme, the government could not reach out to all permit holders. Many did not get the requisite documents and their work status was lost. 

During the pandemic, Canada extended the work permit period for PGWP holders twice. This is an attempt to encourage international students to study in Canada. 

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

A PGWP authorises international students to gain employment in Canada. They can work under the employer of their choice.

PGWP is issued for a pre-decided duration. It is non-extendable. 

Individuals with a professional work experience in Canada can use it to apply for permanent residency in Canada.

Open Work Permit (OWP)

Overseas students graduating from a full-time course can apply for OWP. This work permit is valid for up to 3 years.

Graduates who are awaiting OWP can get an interim work permit authorisation. With this opportunity, students can get a career boost and add to the economy of Canada.

For more news updates, make sure you follow Leverage Edu.