A new temporary public policy was implemented on April 6, 2023, which provides an opportunity for PGWP holders in Canada. These individuals, whose permits have expired or will expire between September 2021 and December 31, 2023, now have the chance to maintain or regain their legal status by applying for an open work permit. It is important to note that all applications must be submitted before the deadline of December 31, 2023.
The primary objective of this Temporary Public Policy is to tackle the increasing shortage of skilled workers required for specific occupations. By implementing this policy, eligible individuals holding PGWP and former PGWP holders can apply for open work permits, aiming to fill job vacancies and prevent the departure of valuable employees from the country.
This public policy will enable eligible PGWP holders and former PGWP holders to:
An Interim Work Authorization (IWA) is a document provided to holders of PGWPs (Post-Graduation Work Permits) whose permits are set to expire between September 2021 and December 31, 2023. On April 5, 2023, these individuals received letters containing IWAs. The IWA allows them to commence or continue working in Canada while they apply for a new open work permit. It grants them the authorization to work in Canada until May 31, 2024. It’s important to note that the IWA does not confer temporary resident status. Therefore, if the holder loses their status, any time spent working in Canada will not count towards Canadian work experience. It is crucial for foreign nationals to maintain and uphold their temporary resident status.
To be eligible for the temporary open work permit under this government policy, foreign nationals must meet the following criteria:
For a thorough assessment, officers need to ensure they possess the following documentation evidence:
To restore their status, eligible applicants who have lost their status between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2023, need to follow the steps below:
It is important to note that under this governmental policy, eligible applicants are exempt from the usual 90-day restoration period typically required for restoring temporary resident status.
This visa is for an individual and their dependent family members, granting them permanent residence in a specific country.
Read MoreThis is an individual's permission to remain in a country for a specific period of time, granted under certain conditions.
Read MoreThis is a visa that permits the immediate family members of a permanent resident or citizen of a country to reside, work, and study.
Read MoreThis is a visa that permits the immediate family members of a permanent resident (PR) or citizen of a country to reside, work, and study.
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