Can I Apply for LMIA-Exempt Closed Work Permit While Waiting for PGWP?

[Leo Hao]

Hi everyone,

I’m seeking advice on my current situation, as I’m trying to ensure my pathway to permanent residency (PR) is optimized. Here’s my situation:

• September 2024 - I completed my studies in Canada and received my official completion of studies letter.
• September 2024 - I applied for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) immediately after receiving my completion letter.
• September 2024 - Shortly after, I accepted a postdoctoral job offer and started working with the employer. The employer provided an LMIA-exempt job offer as part of my contract. However, I did not use this LMIA-exempt job offer to apply for a closed work permit; I’ve been working based on my implied status while waiting for my PGWP.
• November 2024 - I’m still waiting for my PGWP to be approved.
• November 2024 -While exploring my options for PR, I learned that the 50 points for a valid job offer under Express Entry require:
  • A closed work permit tied to the employer;
  • At least one year of work experience with the employer; and
  • A valid job offer from that employer for at least one year after we issue your permanent resident visa

My Questions:

1. Can I apply for an LMIA-exempt closed work permit while I’m still waiting for my PGWP to be processed? Would this impact my current postdoc job or my implied status?
2. Should I instead wait until I receive my PGWP before applying for the LMIA-exempt closed work permit?
3. Is it allowed to hold both a PGWP and an LMIA-exempt closed work permit at the same time?

I want to ensure I’m on the right track to claim the additional 50 points for my PR application while continuing to work in my postdoc position. Any guidance, insights, or experiences would be greatly appreciated!

 

[forevermore76]

Hi everyone,

I’m seeking advice on my current situation, as I’m trying to ensure my pathway to permanent residency (PR) is optimized. Here’s my situation:

• September 2024 - I completed my studies in Canada and received my official completion of studies letter.
• September 2024 - I applied for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) immediately after receiving my completion letter.
• September 2024 - Shortly after, I accepted a postdoctoral job offer and started working with the employer. The employer provided an LMIA-exempt job offer as part of my contract. However, I did not use this LMIA-exempt job offer to apply for a closed work permit; I’ve been working based on my implied status while waiting for my PGWP.
• November 2024 - I’m still waiting for my PGWP to be approved.
• November 2024 -While exploring my options for PR, I learned that the 50 points for a valid job offer under Express Entry require:
  • A closed work permit tied to the employer;
  • At least one year of work experience with the employer; and
  • A valid job offer from that employer for at least one year after we issue your permanent resident visa

My Questions:

1. Can I apply for an LMIA-exempt closed work permit while I’m still waiting for my PGWP to be processed? Would this impact my current postdoc job or my implied status?
2. Should I instead wait until I receive my PGWP before applying for the LMIA-exempt closed work permit?
3. Is it allowed to hold both a PGWP and an LMIA-exempt closed work permit at the same time?

I want to ensure I’m on the right track to claim the additional 50 points for my PR application while continuing to work in my postdoc position. Any guidance, insights, or experiences would be greatly appreciated!

The application to be processed last will become your status.

 

[Leo Hao]

The application to be processed last will become your status.

Thank you for your reply. Does that mean I can use my closed work permit to get 50 points, but my PGWP will be invalid?