Navigating Canadian Immigration: Strategies for PGWP Holders as Extensions End

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made important updates about Canada’s international student program. Key among these updates is confirmation that no further extensions will be granted to holders of Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). In response to labour disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and during the post-pandemic period, IRCC extended the PGWP work permit three times, aiding holders in working in Canada amid processing delays and paused Express Entry draws.

The last extension, issued on April 6, applies to PGWPs expiring on or before December 31, 2023, providing an 18-month open work permit. Eligible PGWP holders can still avail of this extension. PGWPs enable international students to work in Canada post-graduation, with a maximum validity of three years and are non-renewable, barring these special extensions.

What are your options when your Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is close to expiring?

- Visitor Record - Applying for a visitor record 30 days before PGWP expiry, usually valid for six months, although duration varies.

- Seeking another work permit - Either an Open Work Permit or a closed one through a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from an employer.

- For those with pending permanent residency applications - Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) to continue working while awaiting IRCC's decision. BOWPs are applicable for candidates in economic immigration programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Quebec Skilled Workers, or Agri-Food Pilot Program.