A diverse team collaborating around a table in a modern office
EduXperience Associates Canada, founded in 2006, and CanStudyHub

Study permit and PGWP

Work in Canada

Work in Canada as an International Student

Work While Studying

One of the major advantages of studying in Canada is that international students with a valid Canadian Study Permit may be eligible to work up to 24 hours per week.

Learn more

Work After Graduation

After completing your studies in Canada, you have the opportunity to gain Canadian work experience by applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Learn more

Your Path to Canadian Permanent Residence

The work experience you accumulate during your PGWP can greatly enhance your chances of applying for Canadian Permanent Residence, especially through the Canadian Experience Class and certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams.

Immigrate to Canada (IRCC)

Work permits

Types of Canadian Work Permits

Canada offers three primary work permit programs. The main difference between them is whether an employer first needs a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

PGWP

Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP)

Once you've finished your education in Canada, you can acquire Canadian work experience applying for a Post-Graduation Permit (PGWP). Depending on your academic program, this permit may allow you to work in Canada for up to three years. The experience you gain while on a PGWP can be beneficial for your application for Canadian Permanent Residence, particularly through the Canadian Experience Class and specific Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams.

LMIA requiredNo

TFWP

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

This program necessitates a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for foreign workers seeking a work permit. The LMIA helps employers prove to the Canadian government that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely impact the local workforce. The federal department of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) ensures that the employment of foreign workers does not displace Canadian workers or drive down their wages.

LMIA requiredYes

IMP

International Mobility Program (IMP)

This program allows foreign nationals to obtain a work permit without the need for an LMIA.

LMIA requiredNo

Work permit: Applying from outside Canada