JUST IN: Canada amends work permit rules for Nigerians, other foreign students

The Canadian government has changed the requirements to the post-graduation work programme (PGWP) for international students starting February 15, 2024. 

Students who have completed a master’s degree programme within two years will be eligible for a three-year PGWP if they meet all other qualification criteria. 

In its website, Canada, however, revealed that from September 1, 2024, foreign students enrolled in curriculum licensing agreement scheme will no longer be eligible for PGWP. 

Also, the extraordinary measures for distance learning and PGWP will remain valid. 

Canada designed PGWP as an open work permit given to international students upon completion of their studies in Canada. 

The programme holders are free to work anywhere in the country for any employer for as many hours as they deem fit. 

The duration of their PGWP depends on the level and length of their studies and the expiry date of their passports, whichever comes first. 

About the eligibility, the foreign students are eligible if they graduate from a designated learning institution (DLI) and are willing to stay in Canada temporarily to work. 

According to reports, a DLI is a school approved by Canada’s provincial or territorial government to host international students. 

Graduates are not automatically eligible for a PGWP, as candidates need to check the DLI list to determine if they qualify. 

Earlier Vanguard reported that the development was instituted amid a previous report that the Canadian government has placed a ban on Nigerians and other foreigners from owning houses in the country. 

This is due to the acute housing deficit in the country due to an influx of international students and migrant workers.