“Is it possible to Extend a Post-Graduate Work Permit?”
Yes, as per the new policy introduced by IRCC, certain international students with expiring or expired PGWP can now apply for an Open Work Permit. The Canadian government introduced this new policy in August 2024 that could help you stay and work in Canada for longer.
Before this new policy, Post-Graduate Work Permits were a one-time deal. Once you got one after graduating from a Canadian school, that was it. You couldn’t renew or extend it. When it expired, you’d have to either leave Canada or find another way to stay.
Now, thanks to the New Work Permit Extension policy, some international graduates might be able to get an open work permit. This means you could stay in Canada and keep working even after your PGWP expires. They just need a support letter from their province or territory, confirming their placement in an Expression of Interest pool or another application process after an initial assessment. Let’s break down what this means for you in simple terms.
Who is Eligible for this New Work Permit Extension?
You might be eligible for this new work permit extension if you fall into one of these groups:
- Current Work Permit Holders: You have a valid work permit right now.
- Recent Expirees: Your work permit was valid on May 7, 2024, but has expired since then.
- Special Cases: You were allowed to work under specific rules on May 7, 2024, and you’re waiting to hear back about your work permit extension.
If you’re an international student in Canada with an expired or expiring Post-Graduate Work Permit, this policy will extend your permit. However, you need certain documents to apply, including a support letter from your provincial or territorial authority and a letter of employment from your employer.
Not Sure If You’re Eligible for PGWP Extension?
Apply for the New Post-Graduate Work Permit Extension with our Licensed Experts.
How to Apply for New Post-Graduate Work Permit Extension 2024?
Step 1: Check Basic Eligibility
- You must hold a valid work permit (expiring on or before December 31, 2024) or,
- You have held a valid work permit on May 7, 2024, but it has since expired
Step 2: Gather These Documents
- You must obtain a support letter from the Provincial or Territorial authority
- You must get a letter of employment or a job offer letter from your current employer
- Prepare any other documents required for a work permit application under section 200 of the Regulations
Step 3: Submit Your Application:
- Apply for a new work permit under section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations
- Include your support letter and letter of employment with this application
Additional Steps for Expired Permit Holders
If your work permit has expired, you’ll also need to apply for an extension of your authorization to remain in Canada (under section 181) or for restoration of your temporary resident status (under section 182)
For detailed information refer to the article below:
New Work Permit Extension 2024: Open Work Permits for PNP Candidates
Benefits of the New PGWP Extension 2024
This new policy is exciting for several reasons:
- No LMIA Required: You may be eligible even without a current job offer or a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- More Time in Canada: If you’re eligible, you get to stay in Canada longer. This gives you more time to gain work experience and settle into Canadian life.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: The Canadian government wants to help more temporary residents become permanent residents. This policy is a step in that direction.
- Provincial Support: By getting support from your province or territory, you’re already on their radar for potential nomination for permanent residency.
- Open Work Permit: The new permit would be an open work permit, which means you have more flexibility in terms of where you can work in Canada.
How Does This Work Permit Extension Tie into Provincial Nominee Programs?
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are a big part of this new policy. Here’s why:
- Provincial Input: Provinces and territories know what kind of workers they need. By involving them in this process, Canada ensures that the right people are staying in the right places.
- Express Entry Boost: If you get nominated by a province through their PNP, you get a huge boost in your Express Entry score (if you’re in that system).
- Tailored Approaches: Each province has different needs. This policy allows them to support the temporary residents who best fit their local job markets.
Important Things to Remember
- Time-Limited Policy: This isn’t a permanent change. It’s a special policy with a limited timeframe, so act quickly if you’re eligible.
- No Guarantees: Getting the support letter and applying doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the new permit. Immigration officials will still review your application.
- Stay Informed: Immigration rules can change. Keep checking our regular updates, or official Canadian immigration website for the most up-to-date information.
- Seek Help if Needed: If you’re unsure about anything, consider talking to our licensed immigration consultants. They can help you understand if you’re eligible and guide you through the process.
Take Professional Help from Licensed Experts
This new policy for 2024 is a game-changer for many international graduates in Canada. It offers a new chance to extend your stay, gain more work experience, and potentially set yourself up for permanent residency. If you think you might be eligible, start gathering your information and reaching out to your provincial immigration office. This could be your ticket to building a long-term future in Canada!
At Elaar Immigration, we are committed to helping our clients navigate the complexities of immigration policies. If you have any questions about how this new policy may impact your status, Please feel free to contact us for a consultation.
