PGWP + SOWP Extension + Kids Extension

If your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or your spouse’s work permit is about to expire, and you are worried about your family’s status in Canada, this guide is for you.

At Globexa Immigration, we help students, workers, and families legally extend their stay in Canada through proper strategy, documentation, and IRCC-compliant applications.

In this detailed, we will cover:

PGWP Extension Options
Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) Extension
Kids (Dependent Child) Status Extension
Inside Canada Application Process
Common Mistakes to Avoid
How GlOBEXA Immigration Can Help

1. What is a PGWP?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who completed eligible studies in Canada to gain valuable Canadian work experience.

The program is managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The PGWP:

Is an open work permit
Allows you to work for almost any employer
Is usually valid for up to 3 years (depending on program length)
Helps you gain Canadian experience for PR pathways like Express Entry

2. PGWP Extension in Canada

Can PGWP Be Extended?

Normally, PGWP is issued only once in a lifetime and cannot be extended.

However, in certain situations, you may qualify for extension or alternative options:

1. Situations Where PGWP Extension May Be Possible:

Passport Expiry Issue
If your PGWP was issued only until your passport expiry date, you can apply for the remaining validity after renewing your passport.
Special Public Policies (When Announced)
Sometimes IRCC announces temporary public policies for PGWP extensions (like in previous years).
Alternative Legal Options Instead of PGWP Extension
- LMIA-based Work Permit
- PNP Support Letter Work Permit
- Bridging Open Work Permit (if PR filed)
- Spouse-based Work Permit

At Globexa Immigration, we analyze your profile and recommend the best legal pathway.

3. Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) Extension

If you are on PGWP and your spouse is on an Open Work Permit, both permits are usually connected.

When Can You Extend SOWP?

Your spouse may qualify for extension if:

You are working in a skilled NOC job (TEER 0, 1, 2, 3)
You have valid employment
You can show:
- Job letter
- 3 recent pay slips
- Employment contract

The SOWP is also issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Required Documents for SOWP Extension:

Marriage certificate
Principal applicant’s work permit
Employment letter
Pay slips
Passport copies
Proof of status

If the main applicant loses status, spouse status also becomes invalid.

4. Kids (Dependent Child) Extension

If your children are in Canada, their status must also be extended before expiry.

Types of Extensions for Kids:

1. Visitor Record Extension

If the child is not studying.

2. Study Permit Extension

If the child is enrolled in school in Canada.

Documents Required:

Parent’s valid work permit
School letter (if applicable)
Passport
Proof of funds
Previous permit copy

Children’s status must always match the parents’ legal status in Canada.

5. Applying Inside Canada – Important Points

When applying for PGWP/SOWP/Kids extension inside Canada:

Apply before current permit expires
You get Maintained Status (previously called Implied Status)
You can continue working under same conditions until decision

All applications are submitted online through IRCC portal.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Applying after expiry without restoration plan
❌ Wrong NOC category selection
❌ Incomplete employment documentation
❌ Not extending child’s status
❌ Uploading incorrect forms

Even a small mistake can cause refusal and loss of status.

Why Choose GlOBEXA Immigration?

At GlOBEXA Immigration, we:

✔️ Review your full profile
✔️ Create extension strategy (PR-focused approach)
✔️ Check employment eligibility
✔️ Prepare complete documentation
✔️ Submit error-free application
✔️ Guide you in case of refusal or restoration

We don’t just file extensions — we plan your long-term PR strategy.