On March 19, 2023, Minister Sean Fraser announced a special measure for post-graduate work permit (PGWP) holders. This measure allows eligible PGWP holders to extend their stay in Canada for up to an additional 18 months, providing them with more time to gain Canadian work experience, build their professional networks, and potentially apply for permanent residency.
IRCC Sending PGWP Extension Opt-in Emails to Selected PGWP Holders:
March 31, 2023: IRCC sent ‘opt-in’ emails to selected Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) holders, inviting them to take part in a stream-line process, in which the candidate is required to submit their applications before May 20, 2023. If the selected candidate applies before May 20, 2023, they will enjoy a faster processing time to get their work permit applications processed.
The applicants can apply for the PGWP extension starting April 6, 2023. The portals will remain open until December 31, 2023.
To be eligible for this special measure, the applicants must:
- Reside in Canada
- Log into their IRCC secure accounts to
- ensure their mailing address is up to date
- validate that their passport information is up to date and has an expiration date of June 2025, or later, and
- ‘opt-in’ for up to an additional 18 months.
Minister Fraser on PGWP Holders:
On February 05, 2023, on his way to an announcement, Minister Sean Fraser was confronted by a group of PGWP holders (Read full story here) who were frustrated by the IRCC’s delays and lack of communication. The Minister then acknowledged the challenges faced by international workers and assured them that the IRCC was working on solutions to keep as many workers in Canada as possible. He recognized the significant contributions that international workers make to the Canadian economy and expressed his commitment to clear the path to permanent residency for skilled workers.
“We were in a similar challenge last year and we did an extension at the time. We are looking into different options to keep as many workers in Canada as this is part of our Economic strategy. I want to work towards solving some problems, and clear highly skilled workers’ path to permanent residency”- Minister Sean Fraser
Unfortunately, the uncertainty surrounding the PGWP program had led to a rise in fraudulent activities, with many Canadian Immigration Practitioners offering LMIA-supported job offers to international workers looking to extend their stay in exchange for ridiculous amounts of money, sometimes upwards of $40,000. +1 News received numerous reports of international workers falling victim to these fraudsters, who capitalized on their desperation and fear.
Also read: “They capitalize on fear” LMIA Fraud on the Rise in Canada
The PGWP extension announcement by Minister Sean Fraser brought hope and clarity to thousands of international workers in Canada, who have been waiting for a solution to extend their stay.
+1 News will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
Wow. Thank you! We were desperately waiting
What took them so long. Some permits expired in January
This was needed. Now so many students won’t fall prey to LMIA fraudsters
Pls crack down on these LMIA fraud job sellers and IRCC should give 50 additional points to highly skilled students turned into professionals .. pls add 50 additional points for those employed full time and working on permanent positions
lots of candidates are facing challenges in this country right now. mental health has deteriorated. no making enough money led them to hopeless. please Mr. Minister announce any pathways for PR or reduce the CRS score cut off in Express entry as it used to be back in the past. PR has become way difficult after 2020. genuine and honest candidates are waiting of their betterment of life.