Immigration Updates for International Students
Page updated: July 8, 2024
Post-Graduation Work Permit Applications at the Border No Longer Permitted
On Friday, June 21, 2024, the that Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) applications can no longer be processed at a Canadian port-of-entry (e.g. border). This effectively ends what has been unofficially referred to as “flag-poling.” All PGWP applications must now be submitted online. Most graduates can begin working as soon as their PGWP application is submitted, if they have met all the PGWP eligibility requirements. For detailed instructions and guides on how to apply for your PGWP online, please visit the on the Government of Canada website.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) and Study Permit Updates
The Government of Canada has implemented changes that affect the study permit application process for some new international students. Students who are affected by this change are now required to submit a with their study permit application.
. Each Canadian province and territory has been allocated a maximum number of PALs that can be issued on an annual basis. In turn, educational institutions within each province and territory have also been allocated a maximum number of PALs that can be issued to new international students.
The new PAL system has resulted in changes to the application and acceptance process at ĢAV. It has also resulted in changes to the study permit application process. Please read the following sections carefully to learn if/how the new application processes may affect you.