This is bad! Nigerians, others can no longer apply for post-graduation work permit at border

• The Canadian government declared foreigners will no longer be able to submit applications for a work permit following graduation at the border
• It said that this to curb flagpole that typically avoids the wait times associated with online work or study permit applications
• However, the new regulation has curtailed this practice, depriving graduates of foreign colleges of the chance to gain valuable work experience in Canada

Legit.ng journalist Zainab Iwayemi has over 3-year-experience covering the Economy, Technology, and Capital Market.

In an effort to curtail "flagpole," the Canadian government declared that beginning on June 21, 2024, foreign citizens will no longer be able to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) at the border.

Canadian government advised students to adjust by becoming ready well in advance for the post-graduation stage. Photo Credit: Morsa Images
Source: Getty Images

Flagpoling is the practice of temporary residents of Canada leaving the nation and then returning right away to obtain same-day immigration services, thereby avoiding the typical wait times associated with online work or study permit applications.

Post-graduate work permit

Financial Express claims that Canada's new border application ban may cause delays in the issuance of work permits, which might hinder students' ability to begin working as soon as they graduate.

After graduating from one of the participating Canadian post-secondary institutions, students can obtain important job experience in Canada through the post-graduate work permit (PGWP), which helps them become permanent residents of Canada.

The new law, however, has limited this norm, therefore taking away the opportunity for graduates of overseas schools to have worthwhile job experience in Canada.

Canada's easily available avenues to employment and residency contributed to a spike in the number of international students studying there in 2023. By creating uncertainty and delays in the post-graduation phase, the new legislation may stifle this progress.

The authorities emphasized the necessity of a smooth transition for overseas students from school to work, noting that delays in this process might result in missed job opportunities and financial strain.

It stated,

“The end of flagpoling means longer wait times for work permits, potentially disrupting plans to begin working right after graduation. This could make Canada less attractive as a study destination, affecting its competitiveness in the global education market.”

Nonetheless, the government advised students to adjust by becoming ready well in advance for the post-graduation stage. Even though getting a work permit may take longer than expected, students should take proactive measures early in their academic careers to guarantee a smooth transition to the employment.

The authorities noted,

“Engaging in career counseling services, attending job fairs, and connecting with potential employers during their studies can provide significant advantages.“Additionally, maintaining updated documentation and closely monitoring any policy updates from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can prevent unforeseen complications.”

Canada province needs workers

Legit.ng reported that Alberta, a province in Canada, is looking to attract skilled workers from all over the world, including Nigerians, to fill vacant job positions in the construction industry.

According to a forecast by BuildForce Canada, an estimated 42,500 workers, or 23% of the province's 2023 labour force, will retire in 2023 and need to be replaced.

The report added that the shortage of construction workers is widespread but acute in Alberta due to ongoing housing and infrastructure development.

Source: Legit.ng