Canada Bans PGWP at Port Entry: International students can apply online to get work permits

Recently, it has been observed that countries around the world are implementing significant policy changes in their immigration and education sectors.

These shifts are often aimed at streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and addressing evolving national needs.

In this context, Canada, a country long known for its welcoming stance towards international students, has recently announced a notable change in its post-graduation work permit (PGWP) policy.

The Canadian government has decided to end the issuance of post-graduate work permits at ports of entry.

This move marks a significant shift in how international graduates, particularly those from India, will navigate their post-study work opportunities in Canada.

The decision, while aimed at enhancing the overall efficiency of the immigration system, has sparked discussions about its potential impacts on the thousands of international students who choose Canada as their educational destination each year.

The policy change, implemented by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), introduces a ban on foreign nationals applying for PGWPs at the border.

This decision is primarily targeted at curbing a practice known as ‘flagpoling.’ Flagpoling occurs when temporary residents in Canada briefly exit and re-enter the country to receive same-day immigration services, thereby avoiding regular waiting times for work or study permits.

Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, has emphasised that this change is designed to create a fairer and more efficient system for processing applications.

The new approach encourages international students to submit their PGWP applications online, moving away from the previous option of applying at ports of entry.

With the implementation of this new policy, Indian students and other international graduates will need to adapt to an online application process for their PGWPs.

This shift, while initially challenging, brings several advantages to the table.

The online system is designed to be more organised and efficient, potentially reducing overall processing times for applications.

One of the key benefits of this new approach is the enhanced support available to applicants.

Students now have access to dedicated online help centres and step-by-step guides provided by the Canadian government.

These resources offer valuable assistance throughout the application process, helping students navigate the system with greater ease and confidence.

As one of the largest groups of international students in Canada, Indian students will undoubtedly feel the effects of this policy change.

The significance of this impact becomes even more apparent when considering the dramatic increase in Indian immigration to Canada over the past decade.

According to an analysis by the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP), between 2013 and 2023, the number of Indian students immigrating to Canada rose from 32,828 to 139,715, marking an astonishing increase of 326%.

This substantial growth underscores the importance of Canada as a destination for Indian students and professionals, highlighting the potential impact of any policy changes on this community.

Despite the challenges that may arise from the new PGWP application process, there are several positive aspects to consider.
The shift to online applications allows Indian students to begin the PGWP process well in advance.

This improved planning opportunity can lead to better preparation and reduce the last-minute stress often associated with immigration processes.

Moreover, the new system eliminates potential issues that could arise at busy border checkpoints, providing a more predictable and stable application experience.

Another significant advantage is the promotion of equal opportunities.

The online system ensures that all applicants, regardless of their location within Canada, have equal access to PGWP services.

This is particularly beneficial for Indian students who may be studying in various parts of the country.

While the new policy brings several benefits, certainly there are some challenges associated with it. Some students may need time to familiarize themselves with the online application process, which could lead to initial confusion or delays.

Additionally, the convenience of same-day processing at ports of entry will no longer be available, requiring students to plan further ahead for their post-graduation work arrangements.

To navigate these challenges, Indian students are encouraged to start their online application process early, well before their study permits expire.

This proactive approach ensures ample processing time and reduces the risk of status issues.

Students should also take full advantage of the online resources provided by the Canadian government, including help centres and application guides.

Despite this policy change, Canada remains an attractive destination for Indian students seeking international education and career opportunities.

The dramatic increase in Indian immigration to Canada over the past decade is a testament to the country’s appeal.

Canada’s reputation for inclusivity, high-quality education, and strong support for international graduates continues to draw students from around the world, including India.

The end of PGWP issuance at ports of entry does not diminish the opportunities available to Indian students in Canada. Instead, it re-focuses the application process on a more structured and potentially more reliable online system.

This change aligns with Canada’s ongoing efforts to modernize and improve its immigration processes, which have successfully attracted a growing number of Indian immigrants over the years.

As the situation evolves, it will be crucial for all stakeholders – students, educational institutions, and immigration authorities – to maintain open communication and collaborate.

This cooperation will ensure that Canada remains a welcoming and accessible destination for international students, particularly those hailing from India who have long contributed to the country’s cultural and economic landscape.

The success of this policy shift will ultimately depend on how well it is implemented and how effectively students and institutions adapt to the new system.

For Indian students, it represents an opportunity to demonstrate their adaptability and resilience—qualities that will serve them well in their academic and professional journeys in Canada.

Source : https://www.financialexpress.com/business/investing-abroad-canada-ends-post-graduate-work-permits-at-port-entry-international-students-can-apply-online-to-get-work-permits-3558729/