Immigration Minister Sean Fraser tweeted that the previously-announced PGWP extension will be available to PGWPs that have expired since September 20, 2021.
The new policy is beneficial to anyone who has an expiring PGWP. The change is mainly intended to accommodate Canadian Experience Class(CEC) candidates who have not had the opportunity to apply for immigration through Express Entry since September 21, 2021. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) paused draws for these candidates, who are oftentimes PGWP holders, in an effort to address the backlog in immigration applications. Draws for these candidates are expected to resume July 6.
Normally, PGWPs are a one-and-done deal. International student graduates of eligible full-time programs can get an open work permit for up to three years. However, the new measure will allow eligible PGWP holders to apply for a new open work permit for a validity period of up to 18 months.