This government move claims to protect the integrity and independence of the international student program.
Quebec graduates of private, unsubsidized learning institutions will not be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) starting September 1, 2023.
According to the federal government, the measure is meant to preserve the integrity of the international student program in Quebec. Journalists and Quebec’s Ministry of Higher Education have found that certain private institutions engaged in unethical recruitment practices over the past few years.
International students enrolled in private study programs in other provinces generally don’t have access to the PGWP. This open-work permit can give international student graduates the right to up to three years of work authorization in Canada. The measure will be effective, and Quebec private institutions can align with the rest.
Quebec students who have completed a subsidized program of study will be eligible for the PGWP.
In a media release, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser stated that Canada recognizes the immense social, cultural, and economic benefits international students bring to Canada. Quebec requested to change the eligibility for post-graduation work permits. This will strengthen the program’s integrity, align Quebec’s private institutions with other provinces, and preserve our well-deserved reputation as a top destination for international students.
Since 2018, many international students have been attracted to unsubsidized private education institutions. Between 2016-2018, approximately 4,900 international students were granted study permits at one of these institutions. Between 2016-2018, approximately 4,900 international students received study permits for one of these institutions. The number of such students jumped to 11,500 between 2019-2021.
About the PGWP
PGWP allows international student graduates to work in Canada with any employer. It can also be used to gain permanent residence. Study after study has shown that immigrants from Canada who have had Canadian experiences before immigrating to Canada do better in the labor market than those who came directly from their home country.
International student graduates must have completed at least eight consecutive months of full-time study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to be eligible for the PGWP. The study program must lead to a diploma, certificate, or degree.
Canada created online study options for international students during the pandemic. Online study can be counted towards international students’ PGWP eligibility if completed between March 2020 and August 31, 2022.
