Canada relaxes work permit rules

For students aspiring to take up post graduate studies at Canada and getting a work permit subsequently, there is good news. International students will now be able to obtain an open work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Programme, with no restrictions on the type of employment and no requirement for a job offer.

The duration of the work permit has also been extended to three years across the country. Earlier, the programme allowed international students to work either for a year or for two years, depending on location. The move comes as major incentive for Indian students, especially those who have started looking beyond the UK, US and Australia for education.

A spokesperson for the Canadian High Commission said that 5,700 Indian students were studying in Canada till last year.

"The increased flexibility offered by the expanded programme will benefit graduates and employers. It will help international students get important work experience while responding to Canada's labour market needs," said the spokesperson.