International students with an expired or due to expire PGWP are eligible to apply for a new Open Work Permit

A new announcement introduced today, January 8, 2021, by the Government of Canada allows that international students who hold or held a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) will have a unique chance to apply for another Open Work Permit. The measure will be valid for 18 months and enable former international students to remain in Canada, continue to seek employment and build their future in the country.

According to the Ministry of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, international students bring so much to Canada, contributing over C$ 21 billion to the economy of the country and supporting the vitality of the communities.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant number of international students have been harmed by not getting job opportunities. Thence, the government has made significant efforts to encourage and support foreign nationals in Canada to settle permanently in the country, as they help create jobs and fill labour shortages.

To apply for an Open Work Permit under the new policy, the applicant must:

have a PGWP that expired on or after January 30, 2020, or a PGWP that expires in 4 months or less from the date they apply;
still be in Canada;
have a valid temporary status, or be applying to restore their status.

The applications will be open from January 27 to July 27, 2021.

If you are looking for more information regarding this announcement, visas, or immigration applications, book an appointment today with our team of professionals.