Edmonton, Aug 01, 2026: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has taken a firm position on protests by international graduates whose applications for post-graduation work permits have been refused.
Responding to the controversy, Smith said international students who no longer possess valid temporary status and have not obtained permanent residence or another work authorization would be expected to leave Canada. Her statement reflects the provincial government’s position; immigration status and work-permit decisions are ultimately governed by federal law and decided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
The dispute involves graduates of certain programmes delivered through partnerships involving Portage College and private institutions in Calgary and Edmonton. Several affected students, including many from India, maintain that they enrolled after being told their programmes would make them eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
IRCC, however, says the eligibility criteria have not recently changed. The department clarified its online guidance in June 2026 to explain that qualifying studies must lead to a recognized degree, diploma or certificate. General-interest, language and other non-credit programmes do not meet that requirement.
Portage College has acknowledged that graduates of some non-credit programmes received refusals. It is seeking further clarification but says it has no authority to reverse an IRCC decision or guarantee immigration eligibility.
The college has advised affected graduates to preserve their academic and immigration records and seek timely advice from an authorized immigration lawyer or regulated Canadian immigration consultant. The students continue to argue that inconsistent information left them facing serious financial and immigration consequences.
