Hey there, former International Students! We have a special update for you!
The pandemic has affected us in many ways, and for international students, the story is even tougher! As a special opportunity for the former international students whose post-graduate work permit expired on or after January 30, 2020, or is expiring soon, you now have a golden opportunity to apply for an extension of the work permit, and get an extension for 18 months!
IRCC made the announcement on January 08, 2021, as a unique opportunity for many temporary residents on PGWP, who might have been affected by the pandemic, and may not have been eligible for permanent residence, or been able to work.
As a part of the Government’s effort to support international students in this unprecedented time, IRCC is providing this unique chance to former international students, who hold or held PGWP, allowing 18 months of extension for the open work permit, and continue their employment, explore opportunities and pursue a career in Canada!
Previously, the government of Canada has also made significant efforts to help international students in this pandemic through temporary measures. In 2019, more than 58,000 graduates applied to immigrate permanently and the new policy will help graduates seek employment and opportunities in different sectors such as healthcare, technology, and more!
How will the new policy for PGWP work?
- You must have a PGWP that expired on or after January 30, 2020, OR
- a PGWP that expires in 4 months or less at the time of application
- Must be in Canada as of January 27, 2021, when the public policy took effect, and have stayed in Canada since then
- Have a valid temporary resident status (a valid PGWP, visitor record, or any other permits that allows you to stay in Canada), OR
- You’ve lost your temporary resident status, but you’ve already applied for restoration, OR
- You’ve lost your temporary resident status, but you will apply to restore the status at the time of application under this extension of PGWP new policy
- Applications accepted from January 27 to July 27, 2021
- You have to mention you are applying for the PGWP extension under this policy
- Have a valid passport
- Work permit to be issued for up to 18 months, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first
This new policy is likely to help about 52,000 graduates with an expired or expiring PGWP. Out of 61,000 PGWP holders with an expiry date between January to December 2020, half of them are either permanent residents or their applications for permanent residence are still in process.
Canada acknowledges that the pandemic has hit hard for students with a decline in the job market and affected them to pursue a new career, which impacted the eligibility towards permanent residence as well. So, it’s the right time to make the most out of this opportunity provided by IRCC to extend your expiring or expired post-graduate work permit.
Interested in getting more details on how to apply? SPS Canada Immigration can help you restore and extend your status in Canada as a PGWP holder. We can help by providing you the right guidance on making your immigration goals turn into a success! Get in touch by starting your assessment!
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