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Open Work Permit
- Open Work Permit
Open Work Permit
Post – Graduation work permit (PGWP)
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows international students who have completed a program at a Canadian designated learning institution (DLI) to stay and gain valuable Canadian work experience. This permit helps graduates’ transition smoothly from study to professional employment and strengthens their pathway toward permanent residency.
The PGWP is valid for up to three years, depending on the length of the completed program. It allows graduates to work for any employer in Canada without needing a job offer, and the experience gained counts toward immigration programs such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.
To be eligible for a PGWP, applicants must:
- Complete a full-time program of at least 8 months at a recognized DLI.
- Apply within 180 days of receiving confirmation of program completion.
- Maintain valid temporary resident status or restore it if expired.
The PGWP is a one-time opportunity, so ensuring your program and institution meet the requirements is essential. While it does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), it gives graduates the freedom to work in any field or location, build Canadian work experience, and expand professional networks. Many students also use this time to explore long-term career options and plan for permanent residence.
At Drive2 Immigration, we guide graduates through every step of the PGWP application. From checking eligibility and organizing documents to submitting your application and tracking progress with IRCC, we ensure the process is smooth and stress-free. Start your post-graduation journey with confidence—let our experts help you turn your Canadian education into a successful career.
Spouse Open Work Permit
The Open Work Permit is a valuable option for spouses and common-law partners of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have applied for permanent residency through Inland Spousal Sponsorship under the Family Class program. This permit allows applicants to work for any employer in Canada while their sponsorship application is being processed, helping families maintain financial stability and independence during the waiting period.
Unlike employer-specific work permits, an open work permit is not tied to a single job or employer. This flexibility allows sponsored partners to gain Canadian work experience, integrate into local communities, and explore career opportunities across different industries. It also helps reduce financial pressure on the sponsoring partner, allowing families to focus on settling into life in Canada.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Reside in Canada with their sponsor.
- Submit a complete Inland Spouse or Partner Sponsorship application.
- Hold valid temporary resident status as a visitor, student, or worker.
- Apply for the open work permit online or by paper, ideally alongside or after their sponsorship submission.
The permit is usually issued for the same duration as the applicant’s temporary status or until a decision is made on their permanent residence application. It allows full-time employment across various sectors, providing freedom to work without the limitations of employer-specific permits.
It’s important to note that this program is only available to Inland applicants. Those applying through Outland Sponsorship are not eligible and may need to consider alternatives, such as a Visitor Visa, to remain in Canada during the process.
At Drive2 Immigration, we help spouses and partners navigate the open work permit application smoothly. From assessing eligibility to preparing documents and submitting your application, our team ensures that the process is straightforward and stress-free. Book a consultation with us today to secure the right work authorization and support your family’s Canadian immigration journey.
Bridging open work permit
The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) allows eligible foreign nationals already in Canada to continue working legally while awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application. It is designed for individuals whose current work permit is about to expire and who have submitted a complete application under an eligible economic immigration program, including streams managed through Express Entry.
The BOWP offers flexibility, allowing holders to work for almost any employer in Canada without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It ensures continuity of employment during the transition period and is particularly useful for applicants under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and other economic pathways to permanent residence.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be living in Canada with valid temporary resident status.
- Hold a work permit that is nearing expiration.
- Receive an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC confirming that their permanent residence application has passed the completeness check.
This permit plays a vital role in maintaining stability for both skilled workers and their employers. It also benefits families, as spouses or common-law partners of BOWP holders may qualify for an open work permit, helping maintain financial and personal stability during the waiting period.
While the BOWP allows continued work authorization, applicants must comply with all standard requirements, including biometrics, medical exams, and background checks, and must follow temporary resident conditions throughout the process. Staying informed about updates to Express Entry regulations, NOC codes, and IRCC policies is essential for a smooth application.
At Drive2 Immigration, we provide comprehensive support to ensure your BOWP application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time. Our team also coordinates with your permanent residence application to help you maintain employment, protect your status in Canada, and plan your immigration journey efficiently. Book a consultation with us today to assess your eligibility for a Bridging Open Work Permit and take the next step toward securing your future in Canada.
Work Permit Extension
Extending your work permit in Canada is essential for foreign nationals who wish to continue working legally beyond the expiry of their current permit. This pathway ensures uninterrupted employment, maintains legal status, and allows individuals to continue contributing to the Canadian economy while planning their next immigration steps.
Foreign workers should apply for an extension before their current permit expires, ideally at least 30 days in advance. Once the application is submitted, applicants may remain in Canada under maintained status until a decision is made, provided they comply with the conditions of their original permit.
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the type of work permit:
- Closed (employer-specific) work permits may require a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a new job offer registered with the Employer Portal.
- Open work permits, such as Post-Graduation Work Permits, Spousal Open Work Permits, or Bridging Open Work Permits, require proof of continued eligibility under the specific category.
Applicants are typically required to:
- Submit a complete application through IRCC’s online portal.
- Pay applicable fees.
- Provide updated documents, such as passport copies, recent pay stubs, or employment contracts.
Processing times vary depending on the type of permit and IRCC workload, so early planning is crucial. Maintaining compliance with all immigration conditions—including work restrictions, address updates, and permit-specific rules—is essential during the process.
A timely and accurate extension safeguards employment continuity and preserves eligibility for future immigration programs, including Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Failure to apply on time or provide complete information can lead to status gaps, delays, or even ineligibility for future permits.
At Drive2 Immigration, our experienced consultants guide you through the entire work permit extension process. From assessing eligibility to organizing documents and submitting the application accurately, we ensure your extension is handled efficiently and with minimal stress. Book a consultation with us to secure your legal status and continue your work in Canada confidently.
