Current and former post-graduation work permit holders: How to apply under a public policy if you’re outside Canada
You must apply online for this open work permit on or before December 31, 2022.
You cannot apply at a port of entry.
You can only get this open work permit once, and it cannot be extended.
Who can apply
To be eligible for this open work permit, you must meet the following requirements:
- Your PGWP expired or will expire between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2022 (inclusive).
- You include in your application that you’re applying for an open work permit under this public policy.
- You have a valid passport.
- If your PGWP has expired, the work permit will be issued for up to 18 months from the date your application is approved or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
- To maximize the duration of the open work permit, make sure your passport is valid for at least 18 months from the date your application is approved.
If you’re a representative
If you’re applying for a client, you can use the Authorized Paid Representatives Portal to apply for an open work permit under this public policy. To apply
- Use the form Application for work permit made outside Canada.
- Attach a letter explaining that you’re applying under the open work permit public policy for former or current PGWP holders.
Step 1: Make sure you have what you need
To apply online, you need
Step 2: Read the instruction guide
Read the instruction guide before you complete your application.
Once you get your document checklist, fill out the application form.
The guide will explain how to complete each field on the form.
Special instructions for this public policy
When you fill out the work permit application form
- Select “Open Work Permit” as the type of work permit you’re applying for in the Details of intended work in Canada section.
- Copy and paste “PGWP PP open” as the Job title.
- Copy and paste “Open work permit” in the Brief description of duties field.
Venezuelan passport holders
You may need to complete extra steps when you fill out your application.
Step 3: Pay your fees
You’re exempt from paying the open work permit holder fee (CAN$100). Don’t pay this fee.
You must pay the
- work permit processing fee (CAN$155)
- biometric fee, if you need to give biometrics
Because you’re exempt from paying one of the fees (open work permit holder fee), you need to pay your fees before you apply online.
How to pay your fees
- Go to fees for temporary residence applications.
- Scroll down to the row for workers.
- Select “Work permit (including extensions) – per person”.
- Enter the number of applications you’re paying for.
- If you’re applying for just your own work permit, enter “1”.
- Find out if you need to give biometrics.
- If you need to give biometrics, scroll down to the row for biometrics.
- Enter the number of applications you’re paying for.
- If you’re applying for just yourself, enter “1.”
- If you’re applying for 2 or more people, choose Biometrics – per family and enter “1.”
- Enter the number of applications you’re paying for.
The system will calculate the total amount you need to pay when you click “Submit”.
Keep your receipt
After you pay your fee, keep a copy of the receipt. You’ll need to upload it when you apply online for your work permit.
Step 4: Create your online account or sign in
You need an account to apply online. You can use your account to
- pay your fees
- submit your application forms
- check your status
How to start your application
Once you sign in to your account, you’ll need to
- Go to the “Start your application” section on the welcome page.
- Click on “Apply to come to Canada.”
- On the next page, scroll down to the “I do not have a personal reference code” section.
- Click on the “Visitor visa, study and/or work permit” button.
Get your document checklist
You must answer some questions to create a personalized document checklist.
Make sure you answer these questions correctly.
- You would like to work temporarily.
- Answer either less than or more than 6 months.
- Answer “Yes” when asked, “Will you be coming to Canada under an active public policy or special measure announced by IRCC?”
- Answer “No, I am exempt from paying fees for the application” to the question There are fees associated with this application. Will you be paying your fees or are you fee exempt?
- You’re exempt from paying only the open work permit holder fee. Check Step 3: Pay your fees.
Upload the correct documents
You need to include the documents listed in your application, including
- a letter that says you’re applying for an open work permit under the Public Policy Facilitating the Issuance of an Open Work Permit to Former or Current Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Holders
- a copy of your fees receipt
You can upload a blank document if you’re asked for
- employment reference letter
- letter from current employer
- employment records
- CV/résumé
- employment contract
- proof that you meet the requirements of the job being offered
If you can’t apply online
You can submit a paper application if either
- you can’t apply online because of a disability
- there’s a problem with the online application
Report a problem or mistake on this page
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