Online Study Eligibility Period Extended for PGWP Applicants

Canada has extended the online study eligibility period for applicants seeking post-graduate work permit (PGWP) from December 31, 2021 to August 31, 2022. Only after the COVID-19 outbreak, in 2020, international students who completed their online studies from outside Canada were made eligible for PGWP. 

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) tweeted about the extension. It wrote, “International students: We’re extending the time you can study online from outside Canada and have it count towards PGWP eligibility. 

You can:

-Count the online study time from March 2020 to August 31, 2022

-Complete up to 100% of your studies online and be eligible for a PGWP.”

The rule applies if the study program is with an eligible DLI(Designated Learning Institution) and meets all other PGWP requirements. A student must be enrolled in an online course spanning at least eight months to be eligible for a PGWP. 

PGWP allows applicants to work anywhere and for any employer in Canada. It, however, cannot be extended or renewed. 

How long will a PGWP be valid for international students pursuing online courses? 

The duration of the online course determines both the PGWP eligibility and validity. For courses spanning eight months to two years, the PGWP is valid for the entire length of the study program. 

If an online course spans more than two years, the PGWP may be valid for three years. 

PGWP: Road to Canadian PR

Work and study experience in Canada holds a lot of importance when applying for a Canadian PR (Permanent Residence). Economic immigration programs like Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry and Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) may consider your work experience in the country while reviewing your application.