COVID-19: Post-Graduation Work Permit Updates
The picture of the future of international education has been clearing, as countries rally to move past the pandemic. The Government of Canada has announced a number of measures to assist and facilitate its future.
Open Work Permit for Current & Present PGWP Holders
Canada will allow former international students who hold or previously held a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) the opportunity to apply for an open work permit. International students contribute over 21 billion dollars (CDN) annually to the Canadian economy and the government has signaled the importance of its relationship with its international student population. With a shrinking population, international students are essential to the growth and future development of Canada.
“Whether as nurses on the pandemic’s front lines, or as founders of some of the most promising start-ups, international students are giving back to communities across Canada as we continue the fight against the pandemic. Their status may be temporary, but the contributions of international students are lasting. This new policy means that young students from abroad who have studied here can stay and find work, while ensuring that Canada meets the urgent needs of our economy for today and tomorrow. Our message to international students and graduates is simple: we don’t just want you to study here, we want you to stay here.”
—The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Online Students Now Eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permit
The Government of Canada also announced that students taking courses online because they are unable to attend in-person due to COVID-19, will be eligible to apply for a PGWP, even if they complete their program online. Under normal circumstances, the Post-Graduation Work Permit is only eligible to students attending a Designated Learning Institutions (DLI). DLI’s are schools that have been approved by the Government of Canada to host international students.
“This new policy means that students hoping to work in Canada after graduation won’t miss out on opportunities, while ensuring that our economy and society continue to benefit from all that international students bring. Our message to international students and graduates is simple: we don’t just want you to study here, we want you to stay here.”
—The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Through the uncertainty of the pandemic, this message is clear: Canada is open for international students from across the globe. Aplicar is here to help you every step of the way. Connect with us today and let us get your journey started!
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