Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Hundreds of international graduates from Alberta’s Portage College are facing uncertainty after receiving refusals for their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) applications. The affected students say they invested thousands of dollars, completed their studies, and planned their future in Canada based on the understanding that their programs would support their eligibility for post-graduation work opportunities.
The issue involves graduates of certain continuing education programs offered through Portage College’s Calgary partner campuses. Students say they enrolled in 2024 after receiving information that their programs would provide a pathway toward PGWP eligibility. However, after graduation, many received refusal letters from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), stating that their programs did not meet PGWP requirements because they were considered non-credit programs. “This situation requires transparency, accountability, and a fair review. Students make major financial and personal sacrifices when choosing Canada for education, and they deserve clarity when decisions affect their future,” said Devinder Shorey, Former MP and Immigration Lawyer.
Administrative Professional graduate Sikander Singh said students feel deeply disappointed after paying tuition fees, taxes, and contributing to their communities. “We came here to study, work hard, and build our future. We paid our fees and taxes, but now it feels like the government is kicking us out. We are only asking for justice and a fair review,” Singh said.
Students also expressed frustration that except MLA Parmeet Singh no federal MPs, has attended their rallies or provided guidance during the crisis. They said international students have always supported community initiatives through volunteer work whenever help was needed, but they now feel they are not receiving support when they need it most.
Business Management graduate Jaspinder Kaur said her family invested approximately $32,000 in tuition and related expenses, expecting Canadian education would lead to work opportunities and a pathway to build a future in the country. Portage College has acknowledged that some graduates of affected non-credit programs have received PGWP refusals. The College said it is seeking clarification from government and sector contacts and preparing factual institutional letters that may assist students where appropriate. However, the College clarified that immigration decisions are made solely by IRCC and it cannot overturn refusals or guarantee outcomes.
Immigration professionals are advising students to immediately review refusal letters, gather documents such as admission letters, study permits, transcripts, tuition receipts, and program information, and seek advice on possible options, including reconsideration requests or legal remedies where applicable. IRCC has stated that there has been no new policy change and that existing PGWP eligibility requirements remain in place. The department says each application is assessed individually.
Affected graduates are now calling on Ottawa and elected representatives to provide a transparent review process and a fair solution for students who say they followed the information available to them when they enrolled.
National Times Media will continue to follow this developing story.
