Government of Canada announces new policy to help former international students live in, work in and continue contributing to Canada. As part of the Government of Canada’s efforts to support international students through this challenging time, the Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today announced that former international students who hold or held a PGWP will have the opportunity to apply for an open work permit. This new policy will help more graduates fill pressing needs in areas like health care, technology and more.

  • To apply for an open work permit under the public policy, an applicant must
      • Have a PGWP that expired on or after January 30, 2020, or a PGWP that expires in 4 months or less from the date they apply
      • Present in Canada
      • Have a valid temporary status, or be applying to restore their status
  • Applications will be open from January 27 to July 27, 2021.
  • Details on how to apply will be announced on January 27, 2021.Foreign nationals in Canada affected by the pandemic with an expired or expiring PGWP will have a unique chance to apply for another open work permit. These will be valid for 18 months and allow former international students to remain in Canada, continue to seek employment and build their future in this country.

    Please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected], if you have any questions about this program.

Back to all posts


Share this post:


Borders Law firm

Ranjana Vashistha

It was an exceptional experience with border law firm. They take time to understand client situation and offer the best option. Devika is well knowledgeable lawyer and easy to connect with. John took care of my case and went above and beyond my expectation. He was always there to answer my question. The most responsible lawyer I ever meet, to meet my deadlines, I know he worked many evenings and weekends. I strongly recommend this law firm. In fact no one should go to consultant. My each and every penny spend with this firm is worth more. I am thankful to Devika and John for helping me and my family for our immigration needs.

ravinder kaur

I and my family want to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to Devika, John and the team at Borders Law firm for assisting us with the PRTD application at a time when most processing was closed due to lockdowns. They also worked proactively with us to establish a good strategy with back up plans which gave us sufficient information and assurance. Very responsive and forthcoming with information. Proactive in processing but at the same time they put enough time in the application and the supporting details to have high quality of the application. As a result our application was processed in 1 go at a time when it was critical and sensitive time for the family. Thank you again.

Suresh Bhoopathy

I wish to express my sincere appreciation with the services we received from your law firm. Borders Law Firm provided us with an amazing, valuable resource and experience. I have worked with couple of law firms in the past but the experience with your firm was professional and personal. Frankly speaking, Devika and Phing were available whenever I needed legal help and crisp / precise with the entire process. I have nothing but good things to say about our experience with your firm. Thanks a ton for the best services and continue your great service. Suresh Bhoopathy

Harmanpreet Singh

We have had an excellent experience with Borders Law firm & would like to personally thank Jenny Mao who was handling our application & was extremely prompt in her responses, well versed with the documentation & professional throughout our journey. Would strongly recommend them for a personalized service & vast knowledge on the subject

See more Google Reviews

Copyright © 2026 Borders Law firm
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.