Ottawa, July 28: Canada’s immigration department has issued a fresh advisory reminding international students and foreign nationals to strictly follow the country’s work authorization rules, warning that unauthorized employment could lead to removal from Canada, future immigration restrictions and other serious legal consequences.
The advisory comes amid growing concerns after reports that hundreds of international graduates, including many from India, encountered difficulties obtaining Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) because the programs they completed were later determined by immigration authorities to be ineligible for the permit.
IRCC Reiterates Work Authorization Rules
In guidance published by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the department emphasized that most foreign nationals must possess a valid work permit before they can legally work in Canada.
The department clarified that holding a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) does not provide permission to work, and that most visitors are not eligible to apply for a work permit from within Canada.
Consequences of Unauthorized Employment
IRCC warned that working without proper authorization can have significant immigration consequences.
According to the department, violations may result in:
- Removal from Canada.
- A five-year ban on re-entering the country.
- A permanent fraud notation on an individual’s immigration record.
- Negative impacts on future visa, work permit and permanent residence applications.
- Increased vulnerability to labour exploitation.
The department urged international students and temporary residents to ensure they understand and comply with all conditions attached to their immigration status.
Student Work Limits Highlighted
IRCC also reminded international students of the rules governing employment while studying.
According to the advisory:
- Students may work only if their study permit specifically authorizes employment.
- Eligible students may work up to 24 hours per week off campus while classes are in session.
- Exceeding the permitted work limit may affect a student’s immigration status, future study or work permit applications and could ultimately require the individual to leave Canada.
Warning About Immigration Fraud
The department also cautioned students and workers to remain vigilant against immigration scams.
IRCC identified several warning signs of fraudulent offers, including:
- Requests for payment in exchange for a work permit or job offer.
- Promises of guaranteed permanent residence through employment.
- Requests for money or personal documents through social media.
- Claims that individuals can remain in Canada after their permits expire.
- Offers of free accommodation in exchange for work.
Officials advised prospective workers to verify information through official government sources before accepting employment or making immigration-related payments.
Post-Graduation Work Permits
IRCC noted that graduates who wish to work in Canada after completing their studies generally require a valid work permit.
However, eligible graduates who apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) may be permitted to work full-time while their application is being processed, provided they satisfy all eligibility requirements established by the department.
Growing Focus on Compliance
The advisory follows heightened attention to Canada’s international student program after reports that some graduates were unable to obtain PGWPs because the academic programs they completed did not meet eligibility requirements.
While the advisory does not introduce new regulations, it reinforces the importance of understanding permit conditions and complying with Canada’s immigration laws.
IRCC encouraged international students and temporary residents to consult official government resources and seek accurate guidance before accepting employment, changing immigration status or making decisions that could affect their future in Canada.