Temporary Public Policy Update for International Students in Canada

Reinstating Canada’s value for international graduates, a new temporary public policy has been put into place for international students in Canada. With this new public policy, effective as of May 6^th, 2021, those that have graduated from a post-secondary program, can now gain permanent residency.

A maximum of 40,000 applicants will be accepted under this new public policy. Should any applications be received once this cap has been reached, IRCC has indicated that they will not process them under this policy.

This new public policy will end on November 5^th, 2021.

Who is Eligible to Apply Under This New Public Policy?

Applicants who meet the following criteria are eligible to apply under this new program once it opens:

• Have graduated from a Designated Learning Institute after January 2017;
• Obtained a Canadian Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate at least 8 months in duration;
  OR A degree, diploma, certificate, or attestation issued on completion of a program of any duration leading to an occupation in a skilled trade;
  OR One or more degree, diploma, certificate, or attestation at least 8 months each in duration (min total 16 months) with a combined total equivalent to a 2-year credential; Held a valid study permit throughout their education in Canada;
• Be currently employed in Canada with a valid work authorization to work;
• Have attained a level of proficiency of at least CLB level 5 in English or French in the last 2 years if applying under the foreign national’s program and at least CLB level 5 in French if applying under the French-speaking program;
• Reside in Canada with valid temporary resident status (or be eligible to restore their status) and be physically present in Canada at the time the application for permanent residence is received and when the application is approved;
• Intend to reside in a province or territory other than Quebec.

More information about the public policy and how to apply can be found be here.

The Value of This New Public Policy:

 In order to impede Canada’s aging population, the government recognizes the value that International students have towards supporting the economy. More so in this pandemic, the need for skilled immigrants is apparent in order to ensure the workforce in Canada remains stable.