In case if you don’t know – Canada has recently extended the validity period of interim work authorization letters provided to international graduates awaiting a decision on their work permit applications. These letters will now remain valid for 180 days from the date of application submission, comparing to the previous duration of 120 days.

Criteria for Issuance of Interim Work Authorization Letters for International Graduates

Requirements for International Graduates Seeking to Work Before Applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
• Hold a valid study permit when submitting the work permit application.
• Successfully complete their program of study.
• Fulfill the criteria for working off campus without a work permit, including:
• Enroll as a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Participate in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program lasting at least 8 months.
• Attain a degree, diploma, or certificate from the program.
• Adhere to the permissible hours of work for full-time students in Canada, noting that a temporary public policy enacted by IRCC allowed students to work beyond the regular 20-hour weekly limit from Nov 15th, 2022, to April 30th, 2024.

Applicants possessing an interim work authorization letter can continue working in Canada, even if they depart and re-enter the country (although many individuals will require a valid temporary resident visa for re-entry). However, it’s important to note that an interim work authorization letter does not serve as a travel document.

If you are in Regina, welcome to our office: GTR Immigration – 2124 Broad St, Regina, Saskatchewan,Canada S4P 1Y5 (Mon-Fri, from 10AM – 16PM) or you can call us at our Toll-Free number: +1 855 477 9797 or email us at study@gtrworldwide.ca