A recent tweet from Immigration Minister Sean Fraser regarding the PGWP extension has brought a sigh of relief to the PGWPs that have expired since September 20, 2021.
Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) that expired between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2022, might qualify for a single PGWP extension.
The eligible start date of the previously announced PGWP extension was moved from January 2022 to September 2021 by Immigration Minister Sean Fraser.
Anyone who owns a PGWP that is about to expire will benefit from the new policy. The main aim of the change is to accommodate Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applicants who haven't had the chance to submit an Express Entry application since September 21, 2021. To deal with the backlog of immigration applications, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) paused draws for these applicants, who are frequently PGWP holders. Plans are on to resume the draws from July 6, 2022.
PGWPs typically only last one time. However, the new policy will enable eligible PGWP holders to apply for a new open work permit with a maximum 18-month validity duration.
Despite the announcement in April, specifics on how to apply are still awaited. International graduates of full-time programs can obtain an open work permit for three years.
The current holders of PGWPs, who are currently witnessing the expiration of their documents, are finding themselves in a risky situation. Without clarity on revised extensions and how to apply for them, they may need to exit Canada till paperwork gets in order.
Each year, tens of thousands of PGWP holders receive permanent residency. With the years of study and work they have put in while studying in Canada, they are presumed to be well integrated into the Canadian labour market. More than 88,000 PGWP owners changed their status to permanent residents in 2021.
According to the government, this policy might help over 50,000 people.
Schedule a Free Work Permit Consultation with the SAAB Immigration.