Maple News reports that international students pursuing Canadian education from abroad can now breathe a little easier. The Canadian government has extended a temporary measure that allows time spent studying online outside of Canada to count toward eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This policy, initially introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, has now been extended until August 31, 2022—offering international students more flexibility as global travel restrictions continue to disrupt in-person learning.
Under standard PGWP rules, online education completed outside of Canada typically doesn’t count toward work permit eligibility. However, Canada has made an exception for students affected by pandemic-related disruptions. Those who undertake 100% of their course load online from abroad between March 2020 and August 31, 2022, remain eligible for a PGWP—provided they meet other requirements.
To qualify, the student’s program must be at least eight months in duration and offered by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). The rule also applies to students enrolled in two separate programs, as long as both programs began or were ongoing between March 2020 and the summer of 2022. However, time spent studying outside of Canada after August 31, 2022, or before obtaining a study permit will not count toward PGWP duration.
A PGWP is an open work permit, meaning graduates can work for any employer across Canada. It’s a non-renewable, one-time opportunity that often serves as a stepping stone to permanent residency. The validity of the PGWP depends on the length of the study program: up to the same duration as the course for programs between eight months and less than two years, and up to three years for programs lasting two years or longer.
The advantage of holding a PGWP is significant in terms of immigration prospects. According to Statistics Canada, approximately 60% of international students who worked during or after studying eventually became permanent residents. Canadian work experience gained through a PGWP enhances eligibility under several immigration pathways such as Express Entry’s Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), and various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Moreover, studies indicate that immigrants with Canadian education and work experience tend to earn more and have better job outcomes. This makes the PGWP an attractive route not only for gaining valuable experience but also for laying the groundwork for long-term settlement in Canada.
With the extension of remote study flexibility, Canada continues to demonstrate its commitment to welcoming global talent—even amid ongoing global challenges. International students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity while still meeting the necessary academic and immigration requirements.