International students and recent graduates gathered in Mill Woods, Edmonton, to protest the denial of their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) applications, calling on the federal government to review their cases and provide greater transparency in the decision-making process. Protesters say they invested thousands of dollars in tuition and living expenses with the expectation of gaining Canadian work experience after graduation, only to have their work permit applications refused.
Many of the affected students claim they enrolled in their academic programs after confirming that they would qualify for a PGWP. However, they say they were later informed that their programs did not meet the eligibility requirements, leaving them unable to work legally in Canada after completing their studies. Several students argue that the eligibility criteria were not clearly communicated when they enrolled, creating confusion and uncertainty about their future.
The demonstrators are urging Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to reconsider the rejected applications, provide clear explanations for the refusals, and establish a fair review process for graduates who believe they were affected by changing interpretations of the rules. They also want educational institutions to provide accurate information about PGWP eligibility before students commit to a program.
The Edmonton protest follows similar demonstrations in Calgary, where some international students launched a hunger strike over the same issue. Student advocacy groups say hundreds of graduates across Alberta may have been affected and are calling on the federal government to work with colleges and universities to resolve the situation.
According to the students, the permit refusals have placed many of them in financial hardship. Some have already received job offers but cannot begin work without a valid permit, while others are struggling to pay rent, tuition loans, and daily living expenses. Many also fear they may lose their legal status in Canada if the issue is not resolved soon.
IRCC has maintained that not all post-secondary programs qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit and that eligibility depends on the type of program, the educational institution, and federal immigration regulations. The department has advised prospective students to carefully verify PGWP eligibility before enrolling in any program and to ensure they continue to meet all study permit conditions.
The affected students say they will continue peaceful demonstrations, seek meetings with government officials, and explore legal options until their concerns are addressed. They hope the federal government will introduce a fair solution that protects students who say they acted in good faith while pursuing their education and future careers in Canada.