Canada creates transition period for distance learning measures

During the pandemic, IRCC introduced measures to allow foreign students to continue studying online from abroad while remaining eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).

However, as the new school year approaches, the Canadian government aims to return to pre-pandemic requirements meaning that the students studying from abroad will need to come back to Canada. Undoubtfully, those students will need some time to arrange their return for which a transition period has been created extending the distance learning measures to August 31, 2023 but with certain changes.

International students will be able to complete up to 100% of their program online remaining eligible for PGWP only if they have already been studying online from abroad or if the study permit application is submitted no later than August 31, 2022. However, any time spent studying abroad on and after September 1, 2023 will shorten the length of a student’s PGWP eligibility accordingly.

It has also been stated, that no more than 50% of credits earned can be completed outside of Canada in order to remain eligible for PGWP.

International students should remember the new rules and consider returning to Canada to continue their studies timely.