Maple News reports that Canada has introduced a new policy allowing former international students with expired or soon-to-expire Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) to apply for a new open work permit valid for up to 18 months. This measure, launched by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on January 27, is designed to help PGWP holders affected by the COVID-19 pandemic recover lost time and gain valuable Canadian work experience.
The policy supports Canada’s long-term immigration goals by giving international graduates additional time to secure employment and strengthen their eligibility for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and others. According to IRCC, up to 52,000 individuals could benefit from this special measure.
To apply, candidates must meet several criteria: their PGWP must have expired on or after January 30, 2020, or be expiring within four months from the application date; they must have been in Canada on January 27, 2021 and still be in the country; and they must hold valid temporary status or be in the process of restoring it. Additionally, applicants must indicate they are applying for this specific open work permit and possess a passport valid for at least 18 months.
This temporary initiative addresses the economic disruptions caused by the pandemic, such as layoffs and reduced working hours, which have made it difficult for many PGWP holders to accumulate the work experience required for permanent residency programs. Since individuals are typically eligible for a PGWP only once in their lifetime, this new opportunity is particularly significant.
PGWPs are granted to international graduates of Designated Learning Institutions in Canada and are normally valid for up to three years, depending on the length of the study program. This work experience is highly valued by Canada’s immigration pathways, many of which prioritize applicants with Canadian education and professional backgrounds.
The application window for the 18-month open work permit closes on July 27, 2021. IRCC encourages eligible individuals to submit their applications as soon as possible to take advantage of this one-time opportunity.
This policy forms a key part of Canada’s broader strategy to support economic recovery and maintain high levels of immigration in the aftermath of COVID-19. Under its current immigration plan, Canada aims to welcome over 400,000 newcomers annually, with international graduates representing an important talent pool for the country’s evolving labor market.