Canada Extends Validity of Interim Work Authorization Letters for International Graduates

International graduates in Canada get an extension on the period of validity of their interim work authorization. This official authorization is required to work in Canada while awaiting a decision on a Canadian work permit application.

With the latest update, the interim work authorization letters for international graduates will now be valid for 6 months (180 days) from the time of application submission. Previously, the validity was for 4 months (120 days).

Why do I need an interim work authorization letter?

An interim work authorization letter is granted by the Canadian government. These are issued to support an international graduate for work overseas in Canada. Such letters allow international graduates to work in Canada until the time that their under-processing work permit application gets a decision.

An interim work authorization letter allows an international graduate to work full time in Canada while they wait for a decision on their work permit application.

In such situations, the Canadian work permit application must have been submitted before the expiry of their study permit for Canada. Certain specific conditions must be met before applying.

What is the benefit of an interim work authorization letter?

An interim work authorization letter allows international graduates to start working in Canada while their work permit application is under processing with IRCC.

The interim authorization letter lets international graduates work in Canada before they get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Who grants interim work authorization letters?

Interim work authorization letters are given by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

What is the eligibility to be granted an interim work authorization letter?

To be able to work in Canada before applying for a Canadian PGWP, an international graduate must have -

• Been a full-time on campus student at a designated learning institution,
• Successfully completed their program of study,
• Held a valid study permit at the time of submitting their Canadian work permit application,
• Duly met the conditions for working off-campus without a work permit.

An interim work authorization letter lets you work in Canada till you get a decision on your work permit application which is under processing with IRCC. With the recent update, an interim work permit authorization will be valid for 180 days in place of the earlier 120 days.

If no decision is reached within the 180 on your under-processing Canadian permit application, you can submit a request for a continued proof of authorization.

For more details and clear guidance, get in touch with experts at Kansas Overseas.