International students at career colleges and vocational schools in Alberta are raising concerns over the rejection of their post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) due to their programs being classified as non-credit. Graduates from Portage College have been demonstrating outside the college’s Calgary and Edmonton campuses, with some resorting to a hunger strike to bring attention to the matter.
During a news conference on July 29, Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney were questioned about the protests. Carney, unaware of the situation, emphasized the importance of following the correct procedures for international students lacking authorization to remain in the country. Smith suggested that Portage College may have exaggerated the pathway to permanent residency for students.
One student, Lovepreet Singh, disclosed his experience at Campbell College in Edmonton, a Portage College partner institution. Singh completed teacher’s assistant courses within a non-credit program and applied for a PGWP in March. Unfortunately, his application was rejected in June as his courses did not meet the federal permit program’s criteria.
Portage College spokesperson Jaime Davies acknowledged the permit denials and stated that the college is seeking clarification on the matter. However, Davies emphasized that the decision on PGWP applications lies solely with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Singh enrolled in Campbell College before IRCC updated the eligibility requirements in early 2024, rendering graduates from certain programs ineligible for PGWPs. Although some students’ permits were approved, Singh’s application was denied due to the non-credit nature of his courses, a detail he claims was not initially communicated by IRCC.
Despite attempts to seek clarification from Portage College and IRCC, Singh and his classmates have yet to receive a resolution for their PGWP rejections. Portage College has announced the discontinuation of partnerships with Campbell College and the Canadian Institute of Osteopathic Therapy in Calgary, stating that these decisions are unrelated to recent PGWP outcomes.
Students facing PGWP rejections have been given 90 days to apply for a different visa or leave Canada. Singh has filed for a judicial review, anticipating a potentially lengthy process. He expressed frustration over being denied PGWPs after investing years of study in Canada, deeming the situation “totally strange.”