Can I get LMIA while on PGWP

Can I get LMIA while on PGWP

If you are an international student who has recently graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution, you may be eligible to work in Canada on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). However, finding a job that aligns with your career goals can be challenging.

Fortunately, if you have a valid job offer, your employer may be able to support it by obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). But, can you get an LMIA while on a PGWP? In this blog post, we’ll explore this question and shed light on the requirements for obtaining an LMIA while on a PGWP in Canada.

Can I get LMIA while on PGWP?

Yes, it is possible to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) while on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada. If you are currently working on a PGWP and have a valid job offer, your employer may need to obtain an LMIA if it is required under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and your job is not exempt.

If a job is exempt, then your employer does not have to get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to support your job offer. If you are invited under the Canadian Experience Class, then you do not require an LMIA to fulfill the program requirements.

However, having a valid job offer backed by an LMIA can increase your points under the Comprehensive Ranking System, which can boost your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.

Therefore, your employer may choose to obtain an LMIA, even if it is not mandatory for you to be eligible for the program.

To immigrate to Canada permanently as a skilled worker, you need to complete an Express Entry profile as the first step.

Can I convert PGWP to a work permit?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to convert a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) into a regular work permit in Canada. PGWPs are designed as a one-time opportunity for international students who have completed their studies in Canada.

In order to be eligible for a PGWP, the student must have graduated from a program that meets the requirements of the program and must have studied at a designated learning institution. Once the PGWP expires, the student must either apply for permanent residency or leave Canada.

Can PGWP be extended with LMIA?

No, a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) cannot be extended beyond its expiration date. Therefore, it is advisable to apply for an alternative temporary work permit or for permanent residency in Canada before the PGWP expires.

Doing so will help maintain your status as a worker while waiting for a decision from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It is important to note that obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) may be required to support your application for a new work permit or permanent residency, depending on your situation and the program’s requirements.

Canadapt Consulting can help you with your PGWP application

If you are an international student who has recently graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution, you may be eligible to work in Canada on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

However, navigating the application process for a PGWP can be complex and time-consuming, and mistakes can result in the rejection of your application. That is where Canadapt Consulting comes in. Our team of experienced professionals can assist you in preparing and submitting your PGWP application, ensuring that it meets all the requirements and stands the best chance of success.

With our expert guidance, you can focus on pursuing your career goals in Canada while we handle the paperwork.

Contact Canadapt Consulting today to learn more about how we can help with your PGWP application.