Program delivery update: Processing instructions for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program

This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.

February 14, 2019

The program delivery instructions have been updated to include a series of facilitative measures, such as

  • the removal of the requirement to hold a valid study permit when applying for a post-graduation work permit
  • the extension of the deadline to apply from 90 days to 6 months

This allows students to have more time to submit their post-graduation work permit application once they obtain their notice of graduation from their institution.

Aside from the 2 significant changes listed above, the following subsections of the processing instructions have also been changed, along with some minor corrections to content:

  • Post-graduation work permit eligibility requirements
  • Restrictions
  • Work permit issuance and validity
  • Work permit access for graduates of Quebec institutions
  • Accelerated studies
  • Distance learning
  • Flight school graduates
  • Canadian educational programs with an overseas component
  • Temporary resident visa and electronic travel authorization issuance for post-graduation work permit applicants

The following subsections were added to the processing instructions:

  • Making an application
  • Leave from studies
  • Designated learning institutions (DLIs) that lose their designation
  • Applicants impacted by a DLI strike
  • Post-graduation work permit applicants travelling outside Canada and returning before a decision is made on their post-graduation work permit application
  • Post-graduation work permit holders travelling outside Canada and returning during the validity of their post-graduation work permit
  • Work authorization after submitting a post-graduation work permit application

New instructions

Updated instructions

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