Portage College of Calgary, Canada has asked Indian students protesting after their work visa got rejected by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to seek legal advice, stating that it “continues to seek clarification regarding this issue”. In an update shared on the website dated July 21, the college said: “Portage College continues to seek clarification regarding this issue and remains committed to providing factual information and keeping students informed as new information becomes available”. The college further revealed that it has scheduled a follow-up meeting with representatives from the group next week. “This meeting will provide an opportunity to continue our dialogue, answer questions where we are able, and share any new information that becomes available,” it added.
Why are Indian students protesting
Thousands of Indian students attended the Portage College’s business management diploma program. After completing their program, the students applied for post graduate work permitS (PGWP). But the IRCC rejected their applications stating their programs were not eligible. The protesting students argue that others from the same college and the same programs have received PGWP approvals before July 7. They further allege that the immigration authority has changed a rule and made non-credit programs ineligible for the permit. IRCC, on its part, claim that no rule change has been done.
Canada college tells protesting Indian students to retain important documents
On the website, the Portage College has advised students to retain important documents that may be relevant to any future application, request for reconsideration, or other process undertaken on the advice of an authorized immigration professional. List of documents that students should keep copies of include:• Study permits• Letters of acceptance• Enrolment records• Program completion documents• Transcripts• PGWP applications• IRCC refusal letters and officer notes, if available• Correspondence with IRCC or an authorized immigration representative
Canada college says it can not overturn IRCC decision
Portage college has also published FAQs addressing concerns of Indian students. Addressing one such query, the college said that it can not overturn the IRCC decision, adding “IRCC has sole authority over immigration decisions. Portage College cannot approve, reverse, vary, or require reconsideration of an IRCC decision”. Here are some of the FAQs:Why was my PGWP application refused?IRCC assesses each application individually. Students should review the reasons stated in the refusal letter and any available officer notes. Questions about the legal effect of a refusal or available options should be directed to an authorized immigration professional.Is Portage College aware of these refusals?Yes. Portage College is aware that some graduates have received PGWP refusals and encourage affected students to seek legal advice.Does a Portage College letter confirm PGWP eligibility?No. A College letter provides factual institutional information only. It does not establish eligibility and does not guarantee approval of a PGWP or any other immigration application.Should I submit a reconsideration request or take another step?Students should obtain independent advice promptly because legal and immigration processes may be subject to time limits.Is Portage College acting as a legal representative or participating in a student’s immigration proceeding?No. Portage College does not act as an immigration representative, commence or participate in legal proceedings on behalf of individual students, or provide legal submissions about an individual case. Any student who wishes to pursue a legal or immigration process must do so independently or through an authorized representative.Where can I find official PGWP information?Students should consult the current Government of Canada and IRCC materials regarding PGWP eligibility and requirements. Because immigration rules and guidance may change, students should rely on the current official information and obtain independent advice about their individual circumstances.Where can I find mental health support?211 Alberta: https://ab.211.ca/
