Work Permit Options for PGWP Holders: What You Need to Know

If your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is about to expire, you can still stay and work in Canada by applying for a Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) work permit.

What is a TFWP Work Permit?

A TFWP work permit is an employer-specific permit. This means you can work in Canada only for the employer listed on your permit. Unlike an open work permit, it is tied to a specific job, but it is a good option if you want to continue working in Canada.

How to Get a TFWP Work Permit

To apply for a TFWP work permit, your employer must first get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This document proves that no Canadian worker is available for the job, allowing them to hire a foreign worker.

Steps to apply for a TFWP work permit:

• Find a job in Canada

• Get a job offer from an employer willing to apply for an LMIA

• Wait for the LMIA approval (must be positive or neutral)

• Apply for your TFWP work permit

Tip: Start early, as LMIAs are only valid for six months, and the entire process can take several months to complete.

Apply now for TFWP work Permit

What is an LMIA and Why Do You Need It?

An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document that proves your employer needs to hire a foreign worker because no Canadian or permanent resident is available for the job.

Only employers can apply for an LMIA, and it must be approved before you can apply for a work permit.

LMIA Processing Times (2025):

• High-wage jobs: 68 days

• Low-wage jobs: 76 days

Tip: If your PGWP expires soon, talk to your employer about starting the LMIA process as soon as possible.

Are There Any LMIA Restrictions?

There are some limitations on LMIA applications, such as:

• Low-wage jobs in areas with high unemployment rates (6% or more)

• Jobs above the employer’s low-wage worker cap

• Live-in caregiver positions

• Companies with a history of LMIA violations

• Jobs in adult entertainment

The Canadian government updates LMIA restrictions every three months, so check the latest rules before applying.

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How to Ask Your Employer for an LMIA

Many employers do not know about the LMIA process, so it is important to explain why it benefits them.

During a Job Interview:

• “I currently have a PGWP, but it will expire soon. Would your company be open to supporting an LMIA?”

If You Are Already Employed:

• “I enjoy working here and would like to stay. Would the company be willing to apply for an LMIA to extend my work permit?”

Tip: The LMIA process can take time, so it is best to start the conversation early.

Apply now for TFWP work Permit

Step-by-Step: LMIA Process for Employers

Employers must follow these steps to apply for an LMIA:

Step 1: Identify the Job Details

• Find the correct NOC code and wage rate

• Choose the correct LMIA stream (high-wage or low-wage)

Step 2: Advertise the Job

• Post the job for at least 30 days

• Follow Canada’s recruitment requirements

Step 3: Gather Documents

• Company information (business license, tax documents)

• Recruitment proof (job ads, resumes received)

Step 4: Submit the LMIA Application

• Create a Job Bank account

• Apply through LMIA Online

• Pay the $1,000 LMIA fee

Step 5: Wait for the Decision

• If approved, the worker can apply for a TFWP work permit

• If rejected, the employer may be able to appeal

How to Apply for a TFWP Work Permit

Once your employer gets an approved LMIA, you can apply for a TFWP work permit.

Steps to Apply:

1. Create an account on IRCC’s website

2. Answer questions to get a personalized document checklist

3. Upload required documents:

• Job offer

• Approved LMIA

• Proof of qualifications

• Language test results (if required)

• Passport

• Proof of funds

4. Pay the $155 work permit fee

5. Submit your application and wait for approval

Tip: You may need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo), so be prepared for this extra step.

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Can You Keep Working While Waiting for Approval?

Yes. If you apply for a TFWP work permit before your PGWP expires, you get “maintained status.”

This means you can stay and work in Canada legally under the same conditions as your PGWP until a decision is made.

• If you leave Canada while waiting, you might lose this status.

How Long Does It Take to Switch from PGWP to TFWP?

Tip: Start your application 8-10 months before your PGWP expires to avoid gaps in work status.

Fast-Track Your Work Permit with the Global Talent Stream (GTS)

If you work in tech or a specialized field, you may qualify for the Global Talent Stream (GTS), which fast-tracks LMIAs in just 10 business days.

Eligibility for GTS:

• Category A:
  
  

• If a designated partner refers your employer

• If you have specialized skills

• Category B:
  
  

• If your job is on the Global Talent Occupations List

• If your employer complies with GTS requirements

Tip: If you work in IT, engineering, or tech, check if your job qualifies for GTS.

Apply now for TFWP work Permit

Final Thoughts

Switching from a PGWP to a TFWP work permit takes planning, but it is possible if you start early.

• Talk to your employer about an LMIA as soon as possible

• Start 8-10 months in advance to avoid delays

• Consider the Global Talent Stream for faster processing

For personalized advice, consult an immigration expert to help with your application