Post-Graduate Work Permit

As of May 16, 2005, many students will be able to work in Canada for up to 2 years in their field of study -- if they apply. This is a great advantage for those seeking to immigrate permanently, as working in Canada can increase an applicant's skilled worker score tremendously. However, only students who gradute from a Canadian university, a community college, a CEGEP, a publicly funded trade or technical school or a Canadian private institution authorized by provincial statute to confer degrees are eligible for the work permit. These restrictions were designed to prevent schools from "popping-up" solely for the purpose of streaming students into the workforce.

Unfortunately, the restrictions capture prestigious, private schools such as the Vancouver Film School that produce high quality graduates who could certainly contribute to local industry. I understand CIC officials are trying to deal with this issue, but for now, certain students who should be able to take advantage of the program are excluded.