IRCC Extends PGWP Distance Learning Measures Until December 31, 2023

On September 1, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended its temporary public policy allowing international students to be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if they have completed less than 50% of their studies online outside of Canada. The extension is valid until December 31, 2023.

This means that international students who began their studies abroad before August 31, 2022, can still count 100% of their time towards their PGWP eligibility, even if they completed the majority of their studies online. However, students who began their studies on or after September 1, 2022, can only count 50% of their time online towards their PGWP eligibility.

The extension also applies to students who are participating in program stacking, which is when a student completes two or more eligible programs of study. Under the extension, students who began their first program in March 2020 or before, and their second program on or before August 31, 2022, can still complete 100% of both programs online and combine the length of their studies when applying for a PGWP. However, students who began their second program on or after September 1, 2022, must complete at least 50% of their second program in Canada.

The extension of the PGWP distance learning measures is a welcome relief for international students who were unable to travel to Canada during the pandemic. It provides them with more flexibility and options when it comes to completing their studies and obtaining a PGWP.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the PGWP distance learning measures:

• The measures only apply to students who are enrolled in eligible programs at designated learning institutions (DLIs).
• Students must still meet all other requirements for a PGWP, such as having a valid study permit and graduating with a minimum grade point average.
• The measures are subject to change, so it is important to check with IRCC for the latest information.

If you are an international student who is considering studying in Canada, I encourage you to learn more about the PGWP distance learning measures. These measures can provide you with a valuable opportunity to obtain a PGWP and work in Canada after graduation.

Here are some additional questions that you may have:

• Can I get a PGWP if I studied online during the pandemic?

Yes, you can still be eligible for a PGWP if you studied online during the pandemic, as long as you meet all of the other requirements.

• How long is my PGWP valid for?

The length of your PGWP depends on the length of your study program. If your program was more than 8 months but less than 2 years, your PGWP will be valid for 9 months. If your program was 2 years or more, your PGWP will be valid for 3 years.

• Can I get multiple PGWPs?

No, you can only get one PGWP in your lifetime.