PGWP Expiring? Here Are Your Options to Continue Working in Canada

If your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is about to expire, don’t worry! There are several options available that allow you to legally stay and continue working in Canada. Whether you're looking to extend your stay or explore new pathways, we’ve got you covered.

This blog will guide you through the various work permit options based on your specific situation.

Work Permit Options for Foreign Nationals

Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for one of the following work permits:

1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program Work Permit (TFWP)

• Eligibility: This permit is for foreign nationals seeking employment with a specific employer. To qualify, the employer must have a positive or neutral Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
• Key Points:
• Allows work with a single employer.
• Broad eligibility for various industries.
  
  

2. Innovation Stream, Employer-Specific Work Permit

• Eligibility: If you've received a job offer from an employer participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP), you may qualify for an employer-specific work permit.
• Key Points:
• No LMIA required for those employed by GHP participants.
• GHP includes industry leaders identified by the Canadian government.
  
  

3. Work Permit Exemptions

• Eligibility: In some cases, you may not need a work permit to work in Canada.
• Examples:
• Foreign nationals working as business visitors or public speakers (less than 5 days).
• Remote workers employed by companies outside of Canada (doesn’t count towards Canadian work experience for PR).
  
  

Special Work Permits for Specific Countries

1. Free Trade Agreements (FTA)

• Eligibility: Citizens from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Canada may qualify for a work permit under the International Mobility Program (IMP). For instance, citizens from the United States and Mexico can apply through CUSMA.
• Key Points:
• Eligibility varies depending on the specific trade agreement.
  
  

2. International Experience Canada (IEC)

• Eligibility: Young adults (usually aged 18-35, with some countries having an age cap of 30) from certain countries can apply under IEC. The program includes:
• Working Holiday: An open work permit, no job offer needed.
• Young Professionals: A job-specific permit.
• International Co-op: A permit for students with a job offer for an internship.
  
  

3. Special Work Permits for Iranians and Ukrainians

• For Iranians: Special work permits are available for Iranian nationals who arrived in Canada on or before February 28, 2025.
• For Ukrainians: Special work permits are available for Ukrainians who arrived before March 31, 2024 under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET).
  
  

Work Permits for Foreign Nationals with Spousal Support

1. Post-Secondary Studies

• Eligibility: If your spouse is enrolled in a qualifying program at a Canadian post-secondary institution, you may be eligible for an open work permit.
• Key Points:
• Spouse must have at least 16 months remaining on their study permit.
  
  

2. Family Sponsorship

• Eligibility: If your spouse is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they can sponsor you for permanent residency (PR). During the PR process, you may be eligible for an open work permit.
• Key Points:
• You must have submitted your PR application and be living in Canada with valid temporary status.
  
  

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

If you’ve already submitted your permanent residency (PR) application, you may qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). This allows you to continue working while you wait for the decision on your PR application.

• Eligibility:
• Be living in Canada with temporary resident status.
• Have submitted a PR application under an eligible economic immigration program.
• Have received an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) for your PR application.
  
  

Atlantic Immigration Program Work Permit

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a pathway for foreign workers and international graduates who wish to work in Canada’s Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador).

• Eligibility:
• A job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces.
• A referral letter from the province.
  
  

Conclusion

There are several work permit options available for those whose PGWP is expiring. Whether through special programs, work permit exemptions, or employer-specific pathways, Canada offers multiple avenues to continue your professional journey. If you’re unsure about the best option for your situation, it’s a good idea to consult with an immigration expert to help navigate these pathways.