Thousands of foreign students who have graduated from Canadian universities and have post-graduation work permits will be able to extend it by 18 months, the federal immigration minister announced on Friday.
“This addition will allow international students to continue contributing to Canada’s economy, while gaining valuable work experience. This will increase their chances of qualifying to become permanent residents,” Sean Fraser told a news conference.
International graduates will be able to apply from April 6. Those whose license expired in 2022 or will expire in 2023 are eligible. Such an extension had also been announced in 2021 and 2022.
“Canada is facing demographic challenges,” added the Minister. We want to keep their talent in Canada. Not just to fill the short-term labor shortage, but to make sure we meet our long-term economic needs. »
Nearly 127,000 permits will expire this year. Slightly more than half of the holders have already applied for permanent residence.
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