Ottawa Issues New Policy On Distance Learning Courses For Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

A ruling has been made on the issue of how courses completed via distance learning are treated when it comes to applications for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Previously, students who applied having completed their most recent studies via distance learning have had their applications for a PGWP turned down.

But a Federal Court decision and subsequent change in Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines means those denied permits between September 1, 2014 and March 15, 2016 on these grounds can submit new applications and have courses previously completed in Canada taken into account.

Provided a sufficient proportion of a graduate's education took place in class, in Canada, there is a strong chance of success in the new application and it should be processed in 40 days.