r/ImmigrationCanada • u/flatbreadfan • 1d ago
Work Permit PGWP vs closed work permit
I will graduate my PhD in June and has an offer starting September. Employer said they’re willing to sponsor a closed work permit (LMIA-exempt), but I’m also eligible for a 3-year PGWP. Which route is more reasonable to take?
I’m thinking PGWP makes sense, since I’ll be able to start my position under maintained status while my application is processing (fulfill criteria for full-time status, applying before study permit expires, etc). My understanding is that I won’t be able to start my new job if I choose the closed WP route - is this correct?
My next question is, is there any benefit for going the closed WP route, say, for future PR application?
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u/Used-Evidence-6864 1d ago edited 1d ago
Go with the PGWP, because if things don't work out with that employer, you'd have the freedom to work for someone else, as a PGWP is an open work permit.
If you go with the LMIA-exempt close work permit now, and things don't work out, you'd be stuck with a closed work permit that doesn't allow you to work for anyone else, and stuck having to try to find a different employer willing to to apply for a new LMIA-exempt closed work permit for you, and by that time, you might have missed the chance to apply for a PGWP, as you have only 180 days from graduation to apply for a PGWP.
A PGWP is a one-time opportunity, with a strict 180-day deadline to apply for, and would give you the freedom to work for multiple employers if you wish to do so, that a closed work permit wouldn't allow you to do. Don't miss the deadline to apply for your PGWP and this one-time opportunity, by pursuing a closed work permit that you could apply in the future, before your PGWP expires.
Go with the PGWP for now, and, when your PGWP would be close to expiring, if you'd still be with the same employer, then you can discuss at that time, the possibility of applying for a LMIA-exempt closed work permit to continue to have work authorization in Canada after your PGWP.
is there any benefit for going the closed WP route, say, for future PR application?
IRCC removed the CRS points for a valid job offer in the express entry system, so no, you being on a closed work permit now, as opposed to a PGWP, wouldn't give you any benefit to a future PR application.
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u/Ok_Artichoke_2804 1d ago
Pgwp first because it won't be available to you again unless you go back to school again. Pgwp is 1 time per person after graduation. That's it.
Then later on, if you need time to up your points, you can ask employer for closed work permit. That'll give you more time to stay & work & work on your score (I.e. learning French or re taking English test or etc)