If you have recently graduated from a Canadian educational institution and obtained a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), you may be eligible for an extension. On March 17th, 2023, the Canadian government announced that if your PGWP has expired or will expire between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2023, you can apply for a one-time new post-graduation work permit that will allow you to work in Canada for an additional 18 months. This new policy, which went into effect on April 6th, aims to support Canadian employers in retaining the workers they need during the current period of economic recovery and growth and to give PGWP holders more time to transition to permanent residence.
Who is eligible for this extension?
The new policy applies to individuals both inside and outside Canada. It applies whether you have an expiring or expired PGWP (as long as your original PGWP has expired on or after September 20, 2021), and even if you are past the 90-day grace period to restore your status in Canada.
If you are in Canada with a valid PGWP:
If you are inside Canada and your PGWP is still valid, you can apply for an extension of 18 months from the date your current PGWP expires, up until the date when your passport expires.
If you are in Canada with an expired PGWP:
If you are inside Canada and your original PGWP has expired on or after September 20, 2021, you can apply for a new work permit, which will be issued from the date your application is approved and will be valid for 18 months, up to the date when your passport expires. You will receive an interim work authorization to enable you to continue working in Canada while you wait for your new permit. It’s important to note that if your PGWP has expired, you must apply to restore your status if it’s not an ongoing process already. You may apply for the restoration at the same time as you apply for this open work permit, even if you have lost your status more than 90 days ago.
If you are outside Canada:
Individuals outside Canada who are eligible to apply under this new policy may have received an email with the interim work authorization. Please note that this letter does not allow you to travel or obtain entry to Canada and is only applicable to individuals who are physically in Canada. If you fall under this category, you may not apply at the port of entry under this new policy. You must apply online and may return to Canada once your new permit has been approved.
Usually, a Post-graduation work permit is non-renewable. By taking advantage of this new measure you will be able to gain more Canadian experience, enhancing your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency under the Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs. Since this permit cannot be issued for a date past the expiry date of your passport, it is essential to ensure that your passport information is up-to-date and ideally has an expiration date of June 2025 or later. This will help you maximize the duration of the open work permit and make the most out of this unique opportunity.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or have questions about your immigration journey to Canada, don’t hesitate to contact Godmer Immigration Consultant. We can help guide you through the process and ensure that you’re on the right track to achieving your immigration goals in Canada.