PGWP Expiring? Your Next Step is TFWP learn more about it

March 12, 2025

Naju Gadhavi

What is TFWP—Temporary Foreign Work Permit ?

If your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is ending, you might be able to stay and work in Canada! You can apply for a work permit through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

A TFWP work permit lets you work only for the employer listed on the permit. If you want to change jobs, you’ll need to apply for a new permit.

If your PGWP is expiring, try to find an employer who can help with your TFWP application so you can keep working without a break.

Let me know if you’d like me to make this even simpler or add anything else!

To whom is the TFWP issued in Canada ?

If your  Post-Graduation Work Permit  is ending, you might be able to stay and work in Canada! You can apply for a work permit through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

A TFWP work permit lets you work only for the employer listed on the permit. If you want to change jobs, you’ll need to apply for a new permit.

TFWP work permits can be issued for almost any job and industry (with a few exceptions). They may take more effort to get, but they’re one of the best options for staying and working in Canada since they don’t have strict qualification requirements.

To get a TFWP work permit, your employer must first obtain a positive or neutral Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

This guide will walk you through:

• What an LMIA is
• Current LMIA restrictions
• How to talk to an employer about an LMIA
• Steps an employer must take for an LMIA
• Exceptions to LMIA advertising rules
• The process of applying for a work permit
• How long it takes to transition from PGWP to TFWP
• The Global Talent Stream

What is LMIA ?

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a crucial document for Canadian employers seeking to hire foreign workers. It serves as official confirmation from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that:

• There is a genuine need for a foreign worker. The employer has demonstrated that no qualified Canadian citizen or permanent resident is readily available to fill the specific job role.
• The employment of a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market; ESDC thoroughly assesses the application to ensure this.

What are the restrictions on current LMIA ?

Only employers can apply for an LMIA, and it’s valid for six months. If you need to renew your TFWP work permit, your employer must get a new LMIA.

Over the course of 2024, the federal government has introduced new restrictions to LMIA processing for certain sectors, occupations, and positions. LMIA applications may not be processed in the following cases:

• Low-wage positions in census metropolitan areas (CMAs) with an unemployment rate of 6% or higher
• Positions that exceed the cap on low-wage roles
• In-home caregiver positions with a live-in requirement
• Any position if the employer had an LMIA revoked in the past two years
• Certain low-wage positions in Montreal and Laval (until November 3)
• Employers on IRCC’s ineligible list or those in the adult entertainment industry

Note: If the job’s wage is below the provincial or territorial threshold, it falls under the low-wage stream of the TFWP. The government updates the list of CMAs with an unemployment rate over 6% every three months, with the next update expected on April 4.

In short, to get a TFWP permit, you need to:

• Get a job offer from a Canadian employer
• Have the employer apply for an LMIA
• Receive a positive or neutral LMIA
• Ensure the job and employer are eligible for LMIA processing.

What steps do you need to take to secure an LMIA ?

Step 1: Find the Right Job Details

• Identify the correct NOC code (National Occupation Classification) for the job.
• Determine the wage rate for that occupation.
• Choose the appropriate LMIA stream based on the job type and requirements.

Step 2: Advertise the Job

• Post the job advertisement as per the program’s rules.
• In most cases, you must advertise the position for at least 30 days.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

• Collect all necessary documents for the LMIA application, including:
  • Completed application forms
  • Proof of recruitment efforts
  • Business legitimacy documents (e.g., business license, tax documents)

Step 4: Create a Job Bank Employer Account

• Sign up for a Job Bank for Employers account.
• Use LMIA Online to create, fill out, and submit the LMIA application.
• Remember: You can submit an LMIA application up to 6 months before the job’s start date.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee & Submit

• Pay the processing fee of CAD $1,000.
• Submit the LMIA application.

After Submission:

• The employer will receive the LMIA decision after processing.
• Important: The officer may request more information via email or schedule a meeting, depending on the case.

What to do after applying for TFWP ?

Once an employer receives a positive or neutral LMIA, they must provide it along with the job offer to the worker. The worker can then begin the work permit application process.

Step 1: Create an IRCC Online Account

• Go to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
• Create an online account and sign in.

Step 2: Answer Eligibility Questions

• Answer a series of questions to generate a personalized document checklist.
• Common documents required:
  • Job offer letter
  • Positive or neutral LMIA
  • Proof of qualifications and work experience
  • Language test results (if needed)
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of funds to support yourself in Canada

Step 3: Fill Out the Application & Upload Documents

• Complete the work permit application form.
• Upload all required documents from your checklist.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

• Pay the work permit processing fee of $155 CAD.

Navigating the LMIA and work permit process can be complex, but taking the right steps is crucial for success. From advertising the job to submitting applications and gathering documents, each stage requires attention to detail. Once an LMIA is approved, workers must carefully follow the process to secure their work permits and start their journey in Canada.

At SPS Canada, we understand how important this moment is for both employers and workers. Don’t risk unnecessary delays or mistakes — our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re an employer looking to bring in talent or a worker ready to start your new chapter, trust SPS Canada to make the process smooth and stress-free.

Let us help you turn your next opportunity into reality.

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