Work In Canada

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

A PGWP allows international students who have graduated from a designated Canadian post-secondary institution to gain valuable work experience in Canada. This experience can be instrumental in boosting your resume and potentially qualifying you for permanent residency programs.

Eligibility:

• Graduated from a designated post-secondary institution in Canada with a valid study permit.
• Completed a full-time program lasting at least eight months (academic year).

Benefits of a PGWP:

• Gain valuable Canadian work experience. (Length: Varies depending on your program length; typically up to 3 years)
• Enhance your resume for future job opportunities.
• Potential pathway to permanent residency in Canada.

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Work Permit

An LMIA is a document issued by the Canadian government that confirms a job offer cannot be filled by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. This permit is typically required for most employer-sponsored work visas.

Process:

• The employer obtains a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
• The employer submits a work permit application on your behalf.
• You apply for the work permit from outside Canada or submit an application to change your immigration status if already in Canada.

Length: The length of an LMIA work permit is tied to the duration of your employment contract, typically up to four years, with the possibility of renewal.

Navigating the LMIA process can be daunting, but with our expertise, you can secure a work permit based on a job offer from a Canadian employer. We’ll guide you through the intricacies of the LMIA application, ensuring that you meet all requirements and position yourself for success in the Canadian job market.

LMIA-exempt Work Permit

Certain categories of work are exempt from the LMIA requirement. This can be a faster and more streamlined process for obtaining a work permit.

Examples of LMIA-exempt work permits:

• Intra-company transfers for employees of multinational corporations.
• International agreements (e.g., NAFTA).
• Government-approved exchange programs.

Length: LMIA-exempt work permit lengths vary depending on the specific program and category.

Our consultants specialize in identifying these exemptions and assisting you in securing a work permit without the need for an LMIA, streamlining the process and getting you to work faster.

Employer-Specific Work Permit

This permit is tied to a specific employer and job offer. You cannot change employers unless you obtain a new work permit.

Length: Same as LMIA work permit (up to four years, with possibility of renewal).

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

A BOWP allows you to continue working in Canada while waiting for a decision on another immigration application, such as permanent residency.

Eligibility:

• You have a valid work permit that is about to expire.
• You have submitted an application for permanent residency or another work permit before your current one expires.

Length: A BOWP is typically valid for up to six months, while a decision is made on your primary immigration application.

Spousal Open Work Permit

An open work permit allows your spouse or common-law partner to work for any employer in Canada. This provides them with the flexibility to pursue career opportunities while you complete your studies or work on your primary immigration application.

Eligibility:

• You have a valid study permit or work permit in Canada.
• Your spouse or common-law partner has a valid application for a spousal open work permit.

Length: Spousal open work permits are typically issued for the same duration as your primary work or study permit, up to a maximum of four years.