30 Threads · Every One Answered

Study & Work Permits

Study permits, PGWP, LMIA and open work permits, extensions and keeping your status.

Keeping legal status is the part of the journey where small mistakes cost the most. This board covers study permits and refusal reasons, PGWP eligibility and length, LMIA and closed vs open work permits, bridging permits, restoration of status, and travelling while an application is in process. Read the official answers before you act — and confirm anything case-specific with a licensed RCIC.

Why was my study permit refused for "purpose of visit," and how do I reapply?1 answer · Official
My study permit was refused for not showing enough funds — how much money do I need to show?1 answer · Official
How long will my PGWP be, and am I eligible for one?1 answer · Official
How many hours can I work as an international student in Canada?1 answer · Official
Can my spouse get an open work permit while I study or work in Canada?1 answer · Official
My permit is expiring and I applied to extend it — can I keep working or studying while I wait?1 answer · Official
Can I leave Canada or travel while my extension application is pending?1 answer · Official
Is my field of study still eligible for a PGWP?1 answer · Official
How do I change employers if I'm on a closed (employer-specific) work permit?1 answer · Official
Can I work full-time while waiting for my PGWP decision after graduating?1 answer · Official
What is an LMIA, and does my job offer need one for a work permit?1 answer · Official
Is spousal sponsorship faster inland or outland, and what's the difference?1 answer · Official
Can I switch from visitor status to a work permit while inside Canada?1 answer · Official
My study permit was refused because the officer thinks I won't leave Canada — what can I do?1 answer · Official
What is a provincial attestation letter (PAL), and do I need one?1 answer · Official
What happens to my status if I lose or quit my job on a closed work permit?1 answer · Official
What is a bridging open work permit (BOWP), and when can I apply for it?1 answer · Official
Do I need a new study permit to change schools or programs?1 answer · Official
My study permit expires before my program ends — when and how do I extend it?1 answer · Official
My PGWP is expiring and my PR isn't done — what are my options to stay?1 answer · Official
I fell out of status in Canada — how does restoration of status work?1 answer · Official
Can I apply for a spousal open work permit together with our sponsorship application?1 answer · Official
Does working more than my allowed hours as a student affect my PGWP or PR chances?1 answer · Official
How long are study and work permit applications taking right now?1 answer · Official
Can I start working for a new employer before my new work permit is approved?1 answer · Official
Are jobs that offer "LMIA support" legit? Is it legal to pay for an LMIA?1 answer · Official
Can my spouse and kids come with me while I study, and can my kids go to school in Canada?1 answer · Official
What is the difference between an open work permit and a closed work permit?1 answer · Official
Do past refusals or a US visa rejection hurt my new Canadian application?1 answer · Official
How much money do I need to sponsor my spouse for PR?1 answer · Official