Hundreds of International Students Denied Canadian Work Permits Over Policy Shift

Hundreds of international students graduating from Portage College in Edmonton are being denied post-graduate work permits because their programs are classified as non-credit. The students say the eligibility rule was not clearly communicated on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website until June 24, 2026, months after they began their studies. The denials have sparked protests and hunger strikes, with graduates like Sovendeep Kaur stating they simply want work experience before leaving Canada.

Why the denials are happening

To qualify for a post-graduate work permit, applicants must complete a program that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate from a designated learning institution. The IRCC explicitly excludes general interest programs, ESL/FSL programs, and non-credit programs. Portage College’s business management diploma is classified as a non-credit program, making graduates ineligible. Kaur began her program in April 2024 and applied for the work permit in spring 2026, after graduation.

The timing dispute

Students argue the rule was not transparent when they enrolled. Kaur’s refusal letter cited the non-credit classification, but she noted the IRCC website was not updated with this restriction until June 24, 2026. The IRCC counters that eligibility criteria have not changed since November 2024. However, some former graduates from the same program had applications accepted, including Jasmeet Singh, who applied in August 2025. Students paid upwards of $36,000 CAD for their programs.

Student response and government reaction

Affected students have protested and launched hunger strikes in Calgary and Edmonton. Mark Carney, Canada’s Finance Minister, said he was unaware of the Calgary student hunger strike. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith stated that international students whose status has expired need to leave Canada. The IRCC maintains it processes applications fairly and consistently under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, emphasizing its commitment to clear communications.

Broader context on international student scrutiny

Canada’s approach to international students has tightened significantly. IRCC officials are now directing increased scrutiny of study permit applicants’ financial documentation. Between January and April 2026, IRCC processed 43% fewer new study permit applications than in the same period in 2025, though the overall approval rate rose 9 percentage points to 35%. Stricter financial documentation requirements are filtering weaker-profile applications, according to immigration analysts.

Final Thoughts

The denials expose a gap between IRCC policy and student communication. While the IRCC insists eligibility rules have not changed, the late website update and inconsistent prior approvals have left graduates stranded. For international students considering Canada, clarity on program classification before enrollment is now critical.

FAQs

Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.