“Two-year” work permits in Canada are not a single product — several permit types can be issued for up to two years depending on your category and circumstances. The most common routes that can produce a 2-year validity are: International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday, some Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP), employer-specific work permits (duration set by the employer/LMIA decision), and certain open work permits where IRCC grants up to two years. Below we explain eligibility, how to apply, and what to watch for in 2025.
Which permits can be valid for up to 2 years? (at a glance)
| Permit type | Typical max validity | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| IEC — Working Holiday | 1–2 years (depends on your country’s IEC agreement) | Young people from participating countries (age limits vary). |
| Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Often up to 3 years; some grads get 1–2 years depending on program length | Recent graduates from eligible Canadian institutions. |
| Employer-specific work permit (LMIA or employer-offer) | Often issued for the length the employer requests (commonly up to 2 years) | Foreign nationals with a Canadian job offer and, in many cases, a positive LMIA. |
| Open work permits (spouses, special public policies) | IRCC may issue up to 2 years depending on the policy | Spouses of eligible workers/students, or applicants under temporary public policies (rules changed recently). |
Who is eligible for a 2-year permit?
Eligibility varies by program, but common requirements include:
- IEC Working Holiday: nationality in participating country, age within program limits (usually 18–35), and meeting medical/financial requirements.
- PGWP: completed an eligible program at a designated learning institution; applied within 180 days of completion; maintained required study status. Length depends on program length.
- Employer-specific permit (LMIA): valid job offer, employer submits LMIA (if required), and you pass medical/security checks. Employers must meet compliance rules.
- Open permits (spousal, public policy): eligibility depends on the principal partner’s status or specific public policy details — note that rules for spouses and some open permits were tightened in 2024–2025, so check current guidance before applying.
Also Check: UAE Visit Visa Process August 2025: Prerequisites, Requirements and Application Process
Documents you’ll normally need
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining is a common recommendation)
- Job offer letter and employer details / LMIA decision (if employer-specific)
- Proof of funds (for IEC or initial entry)
- Education credentials, transcripts (for PGWP)
- Police certificates & medical exam (if required)
- Biometrics receipt (IRCC frequently requires biometrics)
Step-by-step: How to apply (inside vs outside Canada)
Applying from outside Canada
- Check which work permit you need (open vs employer-specific).
- Gather documents and fill the correct form (IMM 1295 for many outside-Canada applications).
- Pay fees and submit online (online is the standard; paper only in limited cases).
- Give biometrics and wait for a decision; if approved you’ll receive instructions about visa/POE procedures.
Applying from inside Canada
- Many initial work permits must now be applied for online (IRCC no longer encourages POE processing for applications made inside Canada). Follow IRCC instructions carefully; some extension routes require specific supporting evidence.
Processing times & common delays (2025)
- Processing times vary widely by permit type, country of application, and IRCC workload. Check IRCC’s processing-time tool before you apply.
- Backlogs and longer wait times have been reported across several permit categories in 2024–2025; where possible, ensure your application is complete and you’ve provided biometrics early to avoid delays. In some faster streams (e.g., Global Skills Strategy) eligible applications may be processed in about two weeks.
Practical tips to improve approval chances
- Complete application: missing documents are the most common reason for refusal or delay. Use IRCC checklists.
- Be honest and consistent: inconsistent employment or travel history raises red flags.
- Use correct fee payment and form (IMM 1295 when applying outside Canada).
- Keep copies of everything: save PDFs of submissions and receipts.
- If employer-specific, confirm your employer’s LMIA/offer details and that the employer is compliant.
Where to get official help & next steps
- Start with IRCC’s official pages: Work in Canada, How to apply for a work permit, IEC and PGWP guides. These pages contain up-to-date forms, fees and detailed instructions.
- For LMIA processing and employer obligations consult Service Canada (LMIA) pages.
- If your case is complex, consider contacting a regulated immigration consultant or lawyer.