Is it possible to get a PR with a post graduation work permit of 1 year 4 months

[kitta]

My post graduate course duration is 1 year 4 months, and hence my Post Graduation Work Permit will be the same length (1y 4m). Given this constraint, can anyone tell me what's the best way to get a PR.

Is it possible to extend the PGWP after it expires or should I apply for a Work Permit after it expires and before I get my PR? I heard that to apply for the work permit one's employer needs to get an LMIA which could be a hassle, and some might be exempt in which case which kind of jobs are exempt.

Any help is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

[scylla]

It's not possible to extend a PGWP. Your employer would need to obtain an approved LMIA so that you can obtain a closed work permit.

In terms of applying for PR, I would recommend you start by looking at Express Entry / Federal Skilled Worker. Once you have one year of skilled work experience in Canada, you may also qualify for Canadian Experience Class.

 

[kitta]

Oh ok thanks. So if I work for a year and apply for PR. I will have 3 to 4 months remaining. Is that time enough to get a closed work permit? Also my area of work will be in the Tech industry, I have heard it is easier (or in some places, read that LMIA is exempt in that case). do you know much about it?

 

[jes_ON]

If you're a citizen of the US, you might be eligible for an LMIA-exempt work permit under NAFTA (at least, as long as NAFTA continues to exist). There are specific occupations that are NAFTA-exempt -
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/tools/temp/work/international/nafta.asp

If you manage to qualify under one of the express entry programs, earn an invitation, and submit an application under Express Entry before your PGWP expires, you would also be eligible to apply for a "bridging open work permit" (BOWP).

Keep in mind that programs and requirements can and do change all the time, you will have to update yourself on what is available to you when the time comes...