Canada Urged To Extend Post-Graduation Work Permit

Canada Urged To Extend Duration Of Post-Graduation Work Permit

A petition filed in the Canadian House of Commons, aims to extend the duration of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which is an open work permit that allows international students enrolled at Canadian designated learning institutions (DLI), to work in Canada for up to three years, after their graduation.

🕒 ➡️ Longer Work Permits, Brighter Prospects
The proposed change seeks to extend the PGWP to five years for students who have completed two years of study or more, and to two years for those with one year of academic experience. This move could dramatically enhance the opportunities for graduates to secure skilled employment and gain valuable experience in the Canadian workforce.

🤔 Why an Extension is Needed
The rationale for extending the PGWP centre’s around the need for graduates without prior work experience, to have sufficient time to find skilled jobs in Canada. A longer work permit duration not only extends the period for these graduates to develop essential skills, but also reduces their vulnerability to exploitation at the hands of local employers in Canada.

📈 Basis for Petition
The petition to extend the duration of the PGWP is based on the premise that the government now has enough data and policy to support a permanent change to the duration of the PGWP.

✍️ How Candidates Can Apply for a PGWP
Eligible candidates must apply within 180 days after graduation, ensuring they have:

• Completed their program at a designated learning institution.

• Maintained full-time status during each semester (excluding final semester).

• Held a valid study permit, or applied to extend it before expiration, within the last 180 days.

Documents needed include their degree or diploma, transcript, or an official letter from their school, confirming their program attendance and completion.

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