Hello everyone. My PGWP extension expires in Feb 2025 and I've already applied for PR (was returned and reapplied in Sept 2024). With the current rate of AOR issuance I have contacted my employer who is willing to give me an LMIA exempt number. But I'm a little bit confused with the process, especially trying to create the application. The questionnaire is asking if I have a spouse who has a work permit. My answer is yes (my husband is here with an open work permit under me) but I'm not sure if that's what they want to hear cos then the forms made available to me is not like what I see on the guide. Somethings are missing.
Please someone help with this and if you have any link with information that will help me, that would be great, thanks
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Key Points for Your Situation:
1. Spousal Work Permit Question
• If your spouse has an open work permit based on your status (e.g., PGWP holder), you should answer “Yes”.
• IRCC uses this information to determine eligibility and the forms required for your application. However, this doesn’t affect your eligibility to apply for the LMIA-exempt work permit.
2. Forms Missing or Incorrect
• IRCC’s online system tailors the forms based on your responses. If some forms seem to be missing, double-check your answers in the questionnaire. For example:
• When asked the purpose of your application, choose “Work permit extension” or “Applying for a new work permit”.
• Ensure you indicate that your employer is providing an LMIA-exempt number (based on your nomination).
3. How to Apply with LMIA Exemption
Follow these steps:
• Step 1: Gather the LMIA exemption number from your employer.
• The employer must submit the job offer via the IRCC Employer Portal and give you the number.
• Step 2: Complete the online application through your IRCC account.
• Type of work permit: “Work permit with an LMIA exemption.”
• Step 3: Upload the required documents:
• Employer-provided job offer and LMIA exemption proof.
• Copy of your nomination certificate.
• A letter explaining your situation (optional).
• Copy of your current work permit and other identification documents.
• Step 4: Pay the fees:
• Work permit processing fee ($155).
• Open work permit holder fee ($100), if applicable.
4. Links for Guidance
• IRCC Employer Portal for LMIA-exempt work permits:
Employer Portal - LMIA-exempt offers
• Work permit application guide:
Extend or change work permit
Common Issues and Fixes:
• Missing Forms: Review your answers in the online questionnaire and adjust responses if necessary.
• Ineligible Application: Confirm with your employer that they submitted the job offer under the correct LMIA-exempt category (e.g., provincial nominee or public policy).
