Canada is one of the top destinations for international students, offering world-class education and the opportunity to gain valuable work experience after graduation. Many students take advantage of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada temporarily after completing their studies. However, as the PGWP is non-renewable, individuals nearing the expiration of their permit must explore other options to continue working legally in Canada.
If your PGWP is expiring soon, don’t worry! Multiple pathways are available to help you stay and work in Canada. Let’s explore the different work permit options and eligibility requirements that may apply to your situation.
Employer-Specific Work Permits
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill labor shortages. This is an employer-specific work permit, meaning you can only work for the employer who sponsors you.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Your employer must obtain a positive or neutral Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
- You must have a valid job offer from the employer.
- The employer must meet all program criteria and prove that hiring a foreign worker is necessary.
The TFWP is a viable option if you have a job offer from a Canadian employer willing to go through the LMIA process.
Innovation Stream Work Permit
For those with job offers from Canadian companies participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project, an Innovation Stream work permit may be available.
Eligibility Requirements:
- A job offer from an eligible employer participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project.
- No LMIA required for eligible candidates.
- Industry-specific eligibility based on the company’s participation in the project.
This option is best suited for workers in the tech or innovation sector seeking to contribute to Canada’s economic growth.
Work Permit Exemptions
In some cases, you may be eligible to work in Canada without a permit. Examples include:
- Business visitors engaging in short-term activities.
- Public speakers attending events for less than five days.
- Digital nomads working remotely for an employer outside of Canada.
While working without a permit may be possible in certain situations, it does not count as Canadian work experience for permanent residence (PR) applications.
Work Permits Under International Agreements
Free Trade Agreements (FTA) Work Permits
If you are a citizen of a country that has a free trade agreement with Canada, such as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), you may qualify for a work permit under the International Mobility Program (IMP).
Eligibility Requirements:
- Be a citizen of a country with a free trade agreement with Canada.
- Meet the specific work requirements outlined in the agreement.
International Experience Canada (IEC)
The IEC program offers young adults from specific countries the opportunity to work in Canada temporarily. The program has three streams:
- Working Holiday: Provides an open work permit, allowing you to work for any employer.
- Young Professionals: Requires a job offer and is employer-specific.
- International Co-op: Requires a job offer for an internship or placement.
Eligibility is based on your country’s bilateral agreement with Canada and age restrictions (typically between 18 and 35).
Special Work Permits for Certain Nationalities
Work Permit for Iranians
Iranian nationals in Canada on temporary status may be eligible for a special work permit under a temporary public policy. This permit applies to those who arrived on or before February 28, 2025, and allows them to work in Canada without an LMIA.
Work Permit for Ukrainians
Ukrainian nationals who arrived in Canada on or before March 31, 2024, may qualify for an extended work permit under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program.
Work Permits for Spouses and Family Members
Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)
Spouses of certain foreign workers and students in Canada may be eligible for an open work permit.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Your spouse must be enrolled in a master’s, Ph.D., or an eligible undergraduate program.
- Your spouse must have at least 16 months remaining on their study or work permit.
- Spouses of high-skilled foreign workers (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations) may also qualify.
Work Permit for Sponsored Spouses
If you are married to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who has applied to sponsor you for PR, you can apply for an open work permit while your application is being processed.
Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
If you have already applied for permanent residency and your PGWP is expiring, a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) can allow you to continue working while awaiting a decision.
Eligibility Requirements:
- You must have applied for PR under an eligible program.
- You must hold valid temporary resident status in Canada.
- You must have received an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) for your PR application.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) Work Permit
The AIP is a PR pathway for foreign workers and graduates who want to work in Canada’s Atlantic provinces.
Eligibility Requirements:
- A job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada.
- Endorsement from the province where you will be working.
AIP applicants can apply for a work permit while their PR application is being processed.
Final Thoughts
If your PGWP is expiring, there are multiple ways to continue working in Canada. Whether you obtain an employer-specific work permit, qualify under an international agreement, or apply for a spousal or bridging open work permit, it’s crucial to act early and explore your options.
Consult an immigration expert or legal professional to determine the best path for your situation. With the right approach, you can continue building your career in Canada without interruption.
