A new petition advocating for the extension of post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) for international students studying in Canada has been introduced in the House of Commons. Presented by Ruby Sahota, a Member of Parliament from Brampton North Liberal Caucus Ontario, and backed by Kanwar Sumit Singh Sierah, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) from Mississauga, Ontario, the petition has gained significant traction.
Petition e4454 proposes extending the Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) to five years for individuals completing at least two years of study in Canada and to two years for those completing a one-year program. With an impressive 24,349 signatures collected nationwide, Ontario has contributed the highest number with 16,686 signatures.
Historically, international students completing a two-year program from an eligible designated learning institution (DLI) have received a four-and-a-half-year post-graduation work permit (PGWP) since 2017. Similarly, graduates from a one-year program have been granted a two-and-a-half-year PGWP since 2019. However, the petition argues for a permanent adjustment to PGWP duration, citing the necessity for parity with other work permit programs such as Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) permits.
The petition emphasizes the importance of extending the PGWP tenure in equipping students with essential skills during their studies. Graduates without prior work experience often face challenges securing skilled jobs post-graduation, leading to stress and anxiety. Extending the PGWP duration would alleviate these challenges, providing graduates with more opportunities to gain valuable skills and employment experience.
Moreover, the extension of PGWP duration is crucial in addressing concerns such as job offer sales, LMIA fraud, and the misuse of dummy payrolls by purported employees. Current PGWP holders, including individuals from diverse nationalities like Nigeria, encounter difficulties securing meaningful employment and are consequently at risk of exploitation due to the limited PGWP term.
The petition represents a significant push towards creating a more favorable environment for international graduates in Canada, acknowledging their contributions to the Canadian workforce and economy. As discussions surrounding immigration policies continue, the call for an extended PGWP duration resonates strongly within the international student community and the broader Canadian society.
International students contribute to our economy and they should and we should treat them well.