IRCC creates transition period for distance learning measures

Julia Hornstein
Published: August 25, 2022

During the pandemic, international students were allowed to pursue their studies online while living abroad and remained eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).

Discover your options to study in Canada

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced on August 25th that distance learning measures will stay in place until August 31st, 2023 in order to give international students time to return to Canada.

International students studying abroad or who submit a study permit application before August 31st 2022 will able to continue to complete up to 100% of their program online, without affecting their eligibility for a PGWP.

Prior to the pandemic, students were required to complete no more than 50% of their studies online, and time spent studying online outside Canada was deducted from their length of their PGWP.

That being said, study completed abroad starting on September 1st, 2023 will be deducted from the length of their PGWP, regardless of when their studies began.

The extension of the temporary distance learning measures will affect students starting programs from September 1st, 2022 to August 31st, 2023. These measures will apply:

  • No more than 50% of the credits earned can be completed outside Canada to remain eligible for a PGWP.
  • Studies completed online from outside Canada starting on September 1, 2023 will be deducted from the length of a future PGWP.

Although the Canadian government will prioritize study permit applications for students beginning their studies in September, some international students may not have their application processed on time to begin their studies in person for the fall 2022 intake period.

Discover your options to study in Canada

© CIC News All Rights Reserved. Visit CanadaVisa.com to discover your Canadian immigration options.

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Related articles
Canada’s new immigration policies succeed in curbing population growth
A crowd of people crossing the street in downtown Toronto (Adelaide St. W) during rush hour.
Preparing to Study in Canada: Pre-departure checklist for International Students
International student packing suitcase
Working In Canada After Graduation: Taking the CELPIP for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
woman moving boxes
A Guide to International Student Banking in Canada
Writing infront of the laptop
Top Stories
New Canada Strong Pass provides free entry to national parks, discounts at museums
Canada’s new immigration policies succeed in curbing population growth
Preparing to Study in Canada: Pre-departure checklist for International Students
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Sponsor Content
Preparing to Study in Canada: Pre-departure checklist for International Students
International student packing suitcase
Live Webinar: Starting Your Immigration Journey in 2025
Working In Canada After Graduation: Taking the CELPIP for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
woman moving boxes
Resume Writing Tips for New Canadians
Handing out the resume
Link copied to clipboard