International Students Can Secure A New Open Work Permit

International students found themselves in a really tough spot last year when they realized that they would have to change their plans completely because of the pandemic. Canada, along with most other countries, had to introduce travel restrictions in order to reduce the spread of the virus.

International students were unable to make the journey to their destination for a very long time. Universities had to consider the possibility of a fully-virtual semester.

It is only recently that Canada has allowed international students to fly into the country and resume their courses. Only those students are exempt who are enrolled in DLIs that have provided a satisfactory coronavirus readiness plan. 

New Policy

The Canadian government, from the very beginning, has tried to help out international students in every possible way. They have taken measures to ensure that the students have security and allowances. On January 8, 2021, Canada announced a new policy to extend support to international students who suffered due to the pandemic.

Former international students who are currently carrying an expired Post-Graduate Work Permit or one that is about to expire, will now have the chance to apply for a fresh open work permit.

This means that the PGWP holders will get time to gather more work experience. Canada requires applicants for Canadian immigration to have a certain amount of professional experience, and this measure will help the students to rack up more hours at work.

Many people lost their jobs because of the virus, or they were forced to work lesser hours. According to the policy, the new open work permits will remain valid for 18 months during which the students can reside in Canada and hunt for a job.