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Temporary Residence

Work permits: open, employer-specific, and post-graduation.

Not all work permits work the same way. Whether you're a recent graduate, coming through an employer-sponsored route, or accompanying a spouse, the right permit type — and the right paperwork — makes the difference between a smooth approval and months of delay.

PGWP Maximum Length
3 years
For most master's and longer programs
PGWP Lifetime Limit
Once
You can only receive a PGWP one time, ever
Employer-Specific Permits
LMIA usually required
Some intra-company/CUSMA categories are exempt
Spousal Open Work Permit
TEER 0/1 roles
Available to spouses of certain PGWP holders
Know Your Permit Type

Open vs. employer-specific — a critical distinction.

Open Work Permits

  • Lets you work for almost any employer in Canada, no job offer or LMIA needed
  • The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is the most common example — issued once, after graduating from an eligible DLI program
  • Spousal Open Work Permits may be available to spouses of certain skilled workers and PGWP holders in TEER 0 or 1 roles

Employer-Specific Work Permits

  • Tied to one employer, one job, one location — usually requires a positive LMIA first
  • Some categories are LMIA-exempt — intra-company transfers, CUSMA professionals, and certain international agreements
  • Changing jobs generally means applying for a new permit
Post-Graduation Work Permit

The bridge from student to permanent resident.

For most international graduates, the PGWP is the single most important document in their Canadian journey — it's also where we see the most preventable mistakes.

One-time only: if you've already received a PGWP after an earlier program, you cannot get a second one. We help you plan your entire study-to-work-to-PR sequence with this limit in mind from the start.
Our Process

Matching you to the right permit.

1

Permit Type Assessment

We confirm whether you qualify for an open permit, need an LMIA-backed employer-specific permit, or fall under an LMIA exemption category.

2

Document & Timing Strategy

For PGWP applicants, we calculate your 180-day window precisely and prepare language test evidence in advance.

3

Application Submission

We prepare and submit a complete application, minimizing the chance of a Procedural Fairness Letter or processing delay.

4

Planning What's Next

Whether that's Express Entry, a provincial nomination, or renewing/extending status — we look past the permit itself to your longer-term goal.

Common Questions

Work Permit FAQ

Can I switch employers on an employer-specific work permit?

Generally no — your permit is tied to the specific employer and position named on it. Changing jobs usually means your new employer needs a new LMIA (if required) and you need a new work permit application.

I missed my 180-day PGWP window — what now?

This is one of the most serious mistakes in the system, since a PGWP can only be issued once. Talk to us immediately if you think you may have missed it — there may be limited options depending on your specific situation, but time matters.

Does my spouse automatically get a work permit if I have one?

Not automatically. Spousal Open Work Permits have specific eligibility rules tied to your occupation skill level (TEER 0/1) and permit type — we'll confirm whether your spouse qualifies.

Does PGWP work count toward Express Entry?

Yes, if the role is NOC TEER 0–3, the work is authorized, and it happens after graduation — this is the classic pathway into the Canadian Experience Class. Work done while you were still a full-time student, including co-op placements, does not count toward CEC.

Related Pathways

What usually comes next.

Get Started

Get your work permit strategy right the first time.

A free consultation, no obligation — just a clear, honest read on your options.

Book a Free Consultation
Figures and program details reflect publicly available IRCC information as of mid-2026 and are provided for general guidance only — not legal advice. Confirm current details with your consultant before relying on any number here.