Are you currently in Canada and approaching the end of your work permit? Whether you’re waiting for your Permanent Residency (PR), facing challenges securing an LMIA, or simply looking for options to stay longer, this blog will guide you through all the available pathways to extend your stay legally and effectively.
At Globexa Immigration, we understand the stress that comes with an expiring work permit. Many international workers, students, and LMIA holders are in a transition phase—close to getting an ITA under Express Entry or PNP, but not quite there yet. Here are all the smart and legal ways you can remain in Canada without violating immigration rules.
1. Apply for a Visitor Record
If your work permit is about to expire and you have no immediate work or study options available, applying for a Visitor Record is the simplest way to legally extend your stay in Canada.
What It Does: It allows you to stay in Canada, but you are not permitted to work.
Ideal For: Those waiting for their PR invitation (ITA) through Express Entry or PNP.
How It Helps: Maintains your legal status while you wait.
Note: Express Entry profiles are just an expression of interest. Only after receiving an ITA and submitting your documents can you apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP).
2. Open Work Permit Extension
If you’re on a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), there may be a chance to extend it—but only under specific conditions.
✅ When PGWP Extension Is Possible:
You were eligible for a 3-year PGWP but received only 2 years due to your passport’s expiry.
You can now apply for the remaining one year.
❌ When It’s Not Allowed:
If you already received the full duration you were entitled to, you cannot extend the PGWP.
Despite knowing that your extension might be refused, applying still has value. Why?
It gives you a legal window (6–8 months) while the application is in process—allowing you to keep working and accumulate Canadian experience.
If you become eligible for PR during this time, you can submit your documents and apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit, which typically gets processed faster.
3. Apply for Another Study Program
Studying again in Canada can be a strategic move—not for another PGWP, but to become eligible for PR.
🟢 Good For:
Individuals who already used their PGWP but didn’t get PR.
People interested in PR-linked programs like the Caregiver Program or Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
📘 Example:
Enroll in an Early Childhood Education program (8–12 months).
This satisfies education requirements under the Caregiver PR Stream.
Even without a new PGWP, you maintain legal status and may qualify for PR.
Bonus:
These programs often include practicum/internships, giving you valuable Canadian experience while studying.
4. Spouse Study Pathway
If you’re married, your spouse can study while you apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP).
If your spouse takes a Master’s program, you can legally stay and work.
Earlier, you were the primary applicant; now your partner becomes the main applicant.
This role-switching strategy ensures legal status and work eligibility for both partners.
5. Strategic Study for PR (LMIA Holders)
If you entered Canada on an LMIA-based work permit, you can:
Option A:
Take a non-PGWP eligible study that still leads to PR—like programs related to caregiver or community-focused professions.
Option B:
Pursue a full-time PGWP-eligible study, such as:
Two-year diplomas
Master’s degrees
Target Institutions or Communities:
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
Ontario Master’s Graduate Stream
Completing a program in these pathways can guarantee you a nomination and eventually your PR.
6. What Happens When You Have Two Applications Running?
Let’s say you apply for:
A PGWP extension (knowing it may be refused)
A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) after ITA submission
Possible Scenarios:
BOWP approved → PGWP extension is automatically withdrawn, and you get a refund.
PGWP extension refused first, and BOWP is still processing → You go out of status, but can restore it within 90 days.
Tip: Even if PGWP extension is refused, using that time to work and gain Canadian experience is more valuable than staying idle on a visitor visa.
7. Final Thoughts: Visitor Record vs. Open Work Permit Extension
| Option | Can You Work? | Timeframe | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visitor Record | ❌ No | ~6 months | Maintain status |
| PGWP/Open Work Permit Extension | ✅ Yes (while pending) | 6–8 months | Gain experience, reach PR eligibility |
8. Let Globexa Immigration Help You Stay in Canada
At Globexa Immigration, we specialize in helping temporary residents find the right path to permanent residency—be it through study, work, or bridging strategies. Whether your work permit is about to expire or you’re planning your next move, our visa counsellors in Panipat are here to assist you every step of the way.
📍 Contact Globexa Immigration – Best Immigration Consultant for Canada in Haryana
✅ Expert in PGWP Extensions
✅ Study Programs Leading to PR
✅ Visitor Record & BOWP Applications
✅ Spouse Visa & LMIA Guidance
