Canada has introduced new instructions for those seeking to obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or to become a permanent resident through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
On August 2, 2022, the government of Canada published new guidelines for foreign nationals with expired or expiring post-graduation work permits (PGWP) and those applying to the temporary resident to permanent resident (TR2PR) pathways. Since the suspension of Express Entry invitations to apply for the Federal High-Skilled streams has had an impact on PGWP holders, the government introduced the temporary public policy to allow eligible PGWP applicants to apply for an open work permit within a 6-month intake period. Those who have already applied for TR2PR pathways may also obtain an open work permit.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows students who have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) to work in Canada for up to three years after they finish their studies.
To be eligible for a PGWP, you must:
graduate from a DLI with a diploma, degree, or certificate that is at least eight months long
apply for your PGWP within 90 days of receiving your final marks
have studied full-time in Canada (unless you’re a Ph.D. graduate)
intend to work in Canada after you graduate
The process for applying for a Post-Graduate Work Permit is to apply online through the IRCC, include all required documents, such as your passport, study permit, and proof of completion of your studies, pay the application fee and wait for a decision from IRCC. If your application is approved, you will then receive a work permit.
The PGWP is a great way to gain valuable work experience and build your career in Canada. It also allows you to apply for permanent residence through one of the many Canadian immigration programs.
Public Policy for eligible PGWP applicants to apply for Open Work Permit
The public policy will allow those eligible or who have previously held a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), including those with valid temporary status, to apply for an open work permit from within Canada. The permit will be valid for 18 months at most, or until the applicant’s passport expires - whichever comes first. However, those wishing to apply from outside of Canada must do so for a regular work permit, and indicate that they are applying under this public policy.
Under the public policy, foreign nationals must submit clear evidence that they meet the criteria to qualify for an open work permit. Therefore, a foreign national must:
hold or have held a PGWP that has expired or is expiring between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2022,
have maintained temporary resident status or be eligible for restoration (in Canada only)
have requested consideration under this public policy and have indicated the duration of the work permit they are seeking in their application (maximum of 18 months)
Applications must be submitted electronically. Paper applications will only be accepted from applicants who cannot apply online due to a disability, or in the event of technical difficulties with the online application. The new open work permit would be valid for a maximum of 18 months. For applicants whose passport will expire in less than 18 months, an open work permit will be issued with a duration aligned to the validity of their passport. An open work permit under this public policy will be issued to an eligible applicant only once and cannot be extended.
Also take note that if applicants have a PGWP that has expired in the previous 90 days, they must apply for restoration of status with their application for the open work permit.
In conclusion, the revised instructions for PGWP-holders and TR2PR applicants in Canada are now available. If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please contact us at Mesidor Canadian Immigration Services.