Work
Permit
Program Overview
Eligibility
To qualify for a Canadian work permit, you must
- Prove to an immigration officer that you will leave Canada when your work permit expires.
- Show you have enough funds to support yourself and any family members during your stay and to return home.
- Obey Canadian laws and have no criminal record (a police clearance certificate may be required).
- Not pose a security risk to Canada.
- Be in good health (a medical exam may be requested).
- Not plan to work for an employer who is listed as “ineligible” on the Government of Canada’s list of employers or one involved in activities such as striptease, escort services, or erotic massages.
- Provide any additional documents requested by the immigration officer.
Types of Work Permits
Open Work Permit
- Allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada.
- You cannot work for employers who are on the ineligible employer list or involved in restricted activities.
Employer-Specific Work Permit
- Allows you to work for a specific employer under set conditions, which may include:
- The name of the employer.
- The length of time you can work.
- The location where you can work (if applicable).
Working Without a Work Permit
In certain cases, you may be able to work in Canada without a work permit.
As a Full-Time International Student
- You can work off-campus without a work permit if you:
- Have a valid study permit.
- Are a full-time student enrolled at a designated learning institution.
- Are studying in a program leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate that is at least six months in duration.
- Work limits:
- Up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions.
- Full-time during scheduled breaks (e.g., winter and summer holidays, spring break).
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program allows students who have graduated from eligible Canadian designated learning institutions to obtain an open work permit to gain valuable Canadian work experience. Skilled Canadian work experience in National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill type 0 or skill level A or B that is gained through the PGWPP helps graduates qualify for permanent residence in Canada through the Canadian experience class within Express Entry.
PGWP will be equal in length to the study program up to three years. For example, an 8-month study program results in an 8-month work permit. However, if the program is 2 years or longer, a 3-year work permit will be given. Therefore, a 2-year program is ideal to receive the maximum PGWP.
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