Lost PGWP Eligibility? These Work Permits Can Help You Stay in Canada

For recent graduates who are no longer eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or those with expiring PGWPs, several alternative work permit options are available. These pathways allow international graduates to maintain legal status and continue working in Canada. Below is a structured guide to understanding these options.

Work Permit Pathways

1. Free-Trade Agreement-Based Work Permits

   • Eligibility: Open to citizens of countries with free trade agreements with Canada.
   • Details: Conditions vary based on the specific agreement, such as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).

2. International Experience Canada (IEC)

   
   
   • Eligibility: For citizens of countries with bilateral youth mobility agreements with Canada.
   • Age Limit: Typically 35 or younger (30 for certain countries).
   • Work Permit Types:
     • Working Holiday: Open work permit with fewer restrictions.
     • Young Professionals: Employer-specific, requires a job offer.
     • International Co-op (Internship): Employer-specific, tied to academic requirements.

3. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

   • Eligibility: Requires employer support and a positive or neutral Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
   • Details: Employer-specific work permit with varying requirements based on the job stream. Some exemptions apply under the Global Talent Stream.

4. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

   • Eligibility: Job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island).
   • Details: Includes provincial endorsement and allows for an employer-specific work permit while pursuing permanent residency.

5. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Work Permits

   
   
   • Eligibility: Candidates nominated under a PNP can apply for a work permit with a provincial support letter.
   • Updates: A temporary policy (valid until December 31, 2024) allows PNP candidates in certain provinces to obtain work permits.

6. Spousal Open Work Permits

   • Post-Secondary Studies: Eligible if your spouse is enrolled in a qualifying post-secondary program.
   • Family Sponsorship: Eligible if sponsored for permanent residence by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

PGWP Updates and Alternatives

What is a PGWP?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows graduates of eligible Canadian post-secondary programs to work in Canada. The permit duration depends on the program length, up to a maximum of three years.

Changes to PGWP Eligibility

Effective November 1, 2024, eligibility criteria for PGWPs have changed:

• Pre-November 2024: Most full-time post-secondary programs over eight months qualified.
• Post-November 2024: College and vocational university programs must align with Canada’s labor market needs.
• Bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs remain unaffected.

Working While Awaiting a Decision

Graduates can work full-time immediately after completing their studies if:

• Authorized to work off-campus during studies.
• Applied for a work permit before the study permit expired.
• Awaiting a decision on the work permit application while maintaining valid status in Canada.

Summary Table of Work Permit Options