IRCC prolonged the distance learning measures to December 2023. The implementation of these measures took place during the entire Covid-19 phase. Students who were able to finish less than fifty percent of their studies under the PGWP elsewhere apart from Canada will have the eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. The eligibility period will be until December 31, 2023.
IRCC prolonged the distance learning measures to December 2023
Prior to the pandemic phase, international students had to finish at least 50 percent of their studies online. The duration of online education outside Canada was not calculated under PGWP eligibility.
The pandemic caused heavier restrictions on people and made it impossible for them to travel. As a result, IRCC removed the study limitation for the following students:
- Who had enrollment under progress in PGWP-eligible programs in March 2020;
- Those who started their PGWP-eligible programs between March 2020 and August 2022.
Moreover, students who started their study program abroad before August 31, 2022, must be able to 100 percent of that time as their PGWP eligibility. Furthermore, students who began their education between September 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023, can only calculate half the time (50 percent).
Notably, this measure and present extension doesn’t stand for students who studied overseas after September 1, 2023. This is irrespective of when their education began. This also is not applicable to students who got admission to programs after August 31, 2022,
Defining the Post-Graduation Work Permit
A Post-Graduation Work Permit is an OWP for international students who seek to reside in Canada and even start working after completing their study program. Being an Open Work Permit, a PGWP enables the candidates to work under any Canadian employer. The PGWP length will solely rely on the length of the study program and can last up to a maximum of three years.
According to IRCC, if a student studies at a Designated Learning Institution while outside Canada, then this time will be calculated toward the PGWP length. However, it is possible only once IRCC receives the application for a study permit.
To gain eligibility, students must fulfill the following:
- They must have finished their studies in an academic, professional, or vocational training program from a DLI. The program should have been at least eight months in length.
- They must have obtained a transcript or an official letter from their DLI. The letter must confirm that the student has fulfilled all conditions of the study program. Also, this will be included with the study permit application.
Essentially, students staying on a PGWP after completing their studies can calculate any work experience to gain a Canadian Permanent Residence status further. This is also because most federal and provincial immigration programs encourage candidates with Canadian work experience and education.
