After you apply

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Work while we process your application

You can work full-time until we make a decision on your work permit application if you

If you received the WP-EXT for PGWP (IMM 0127 E) letter

You can work until we make a decision on your work permit application even if the 180-day validity period of the letter expires. If you need proof of authorization to continue working, you can ask for it using our web form.

If these conditions apply to you and you need to prove to an employer that you’re eligible to work, provide the employer with a copy of all the required documents.

If these conditions don’t apply to you, you must wait until your work permit arrives to begin your new job. It’s illegal to work in Canada without authorization.

If we refuse your work permit, you must stop working the day we notify you.

Get your visitor visa or eTA

If you apply for your post-graduation work permit from outside Canada

We’ll issue you a new visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) when we approve your post-graduation work permit application.

If you apply for your post-graduation work permit from inside Canada

If you need a visitor visa to enter Canada, we won’t issue you a new one when we approve your post-graduation work permit application. You need to apply for a new visitor visa separately if your current one is expired and you want to travel outside Canada.

If you need an eTA to enter Canada by air, we’ll issue you one when we approve your post-graduation work permit application.

Travel outside Canada

If you’re in Canada and want to travel outside Canada, you must have a valid visitor visa or eTA. If you don’t have a valid visitor visa or eTA when you return to Canada, you may not be let back into the country (even if you have a valid post-graduation work permit).

If you leave and re-enter Canada after applying for your post-graduation work permit, you can still work full-time while you wait for a decision. Leaving and re-entering Canada doesn’t stop you from working full-time while you wait.

When you arrive in Canada, you’ll meet a border services officer, who will make sure you meet some basic requirements. To enter Canada, you must

Bring your spouse or common-law partner to Canada

If we approve your application for a post-graduation work permit, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit. Answer a few questions to find out what type of work permit they may be eligible for.

Find out how you can live in Canada permanently

You’ve studied in Canada and maybe you even have Canadian work experience. Now you’d like to live here permanently. You have options to immigrate here.

Use our simple tool to explore your options.

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