Dean Szikinger Canadian Immigration Lawyer

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Dean Szikinger Canadian Immigration Lawyer

I have been assisting individuals and families with all types of Canadian immigration matters for over a decade.

I have experience resolving complex issues involving refusals, inadmissibility, procedural fairness, and out-of-status cases.

05/06/2026

International graduates often ask whether they can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) at the same time. In many cases, the answer is yes — but timing and strategy matter.

Spousal eligibility is usually linked to the graduate’s employment. Showing proof of a qualifying job can strengthen the spouse’s application.

Learn more:

https://szikinger.ca/can-i-apply-for-a-pgwp-and-spouse-open-work-permit-together/

04/15/2026

You may have come across the term "dummy work permit" in online immigration forums or discussions — but it's not a real category in Canadian immigration law. So what does it mean, and why does it matter?

The phrase is sometimes used to describe a work permit application submitted primarily to maintain status in Canada rather than for genuine employment — for example, to stay in the country while waiting on a permanent residence decision. The problem is that Canadian immigration law requires all work permit applications to be truthful and backed by legitimate documentation. Applications based on fake job offers or misleading information can result in refusal and, more seriously, a finding of misrepresentation — which can have long-term consequences for future immigration applications.

The good news is that Canada's immigration system already offers legitimate options for people who need to maintain status while another application is in process, including:

Bridging Open Work Permits — for eligible permanent residence applicants who need to keep working while their PR application is processed.

Extensions of temporary resident status and visitor records for those who need to remain in Canada lawfully.

If you're trying to maintain your status in Canada, the right approach is to use the lawful pathways available — not workarounds that could put your immigration history at risk.

Read more: https://szikinger.ca/what-is-a-dummy-work-permit/

04/10/2026

If you're working in Canada on a work permit, you may be wondering whether you can buy a home. The short answer is: often yes, but there are some important conditions to be aware of.

Canadian real estate law generally allows temporary residents to purchase property. However, the federal Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act, which came into force in 2023, introduced some restrictions. The good news is that the legislation includes exceptions for certain work permit holders — particularly those who have worked in Canada for a significant period and have filed Canadian income tax returns.

A few other things to keep in mind:

Mortgages can be more complex — lenders may require a larger down payment from temporary residents and will typically review the length and conditions of your work permit before approving financing.

Credit history matters — Canadian lenders generally look for proof of stable employment and an established credit history.

Property ownership doesn't equal immigration status — owning a home in Canada does not grant permanent residence or any other immigration benefit, though it may demonstrate long-term ties to Canada in certain contexts.

If you're a temporary foreign worker considering purchasing property, it's worth reviewing both the federal rules and your financing options carefully.

Read more: https://szikinger.ca/can-a-work-permit-holder-buy-a-house-in-canada/

04/03/2026

Not every foreign worker in Canada needs their employer to go through a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). In certain situations, a foreign national can obtain an LMIA-exempt work permit — allowing them to work in Canada without the time and cost of a full labour market assessment.

So when does this apply? A few common examples:

International trade agreements — Under CUSMA (formerly NAFTA), certain professionals, investors, and intra-company transferees from the U.S. and Mexico may qualify for an LMIA exemption.

Intra-company transferees — Employees of multinational companies being transferred to a Canadian office can often bypass the LMIA process, particularly those with specialized knowledge or managerial experience.

Public policy and social benefit categories — Certain research roles, charitable work, and cultural exchange programs may also qualify.

Open work permits — Spouses of skilled workers or international students are generally LMIA-exempt, as these permits are designed to support family unity and labour market participation.

It's worth noting that even without an LMIA, employers often still need to submit an offer of employment through the IRCC portal and pay a compliance fee before the worker applies.

Read more: https://szikinger.ca/what-is-an-lmia-exempt-work-permit/

04/01/2026

An open work permit allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada, unlike an employer-specific permit tied to one job. However, only certain applicants qualify.

Common pathways include spouses of workers or students, Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) for international graduates, and Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP) for those waiting on permanent residence.

Applications are usually submitted online, and timing is important to maintain legal status.

Learn more:

https://szikinger.ca/how-to-apply-for-an-open-work-permit-in-canada/

03/27/2026

If you're working in Canada and have applied for permanent residence, you may be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) — a permit designed to keep you legally employed while you wait for a decision on your PR application.

Processing times for permanent residence can stretch months or even years, and your existing work permit may expire in the meantime. The BOWP bridges that gap, letting you stay in the workforce without interruption.

A few key things to know:

It's an open work permit — meaning you're not tied to a specific employer and can change jobs if needed.

Eligible programs include the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and some Provincial Nominee Program streams.

Your PR application must still be in process — if it's withdrawn or refused, the BOWP application may be refused as well.

If you're on a temporary work permit and have taken steps toward permanent residence, the BOWP could be an important option to explore.

Read more: https://szikinger.ca/what-is-a-bridging-open-work-permit/

03/25/2026

A Canadian work permit does not automatically give you a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). A work permit allows you to work in Canada, while a TRV is a travel document that allows citizens of visa-required countries to enter or re-enter Canada.

If you leave Canada without a valid TRV, you may not be able to board your flight back — even if your work permit is still valid.

Most TRV applications are submitted online from inside Canada and require proof of employment, a valid work permit, and supporting documents.

Learn more:

https://szikinger.ca/how-to-apply-for-a-trv-after-getting-a-work-permit/

03/20/2026

Can you study in Canada on a work permit? The short answer: it depends. Short programs (6 months or less) — generally no study permit needed, making them great for language training, certification courses, or professional development. Longer programs (diplomas, degrees, etc.) — a study permit is required, though in many cases you can apply from inside Canada through IRCC. Starting a program without the right permit can impact future immigration applications, including permanent residence. If you're a temporary worker thinking about hitting the books, make sure you have the right authorization first.

Read more: https://szikinger.ca/can-i-study-on-a-work-permit-in-canada/

03/18/2026

Extending a Canadian work permit is not automatic. In most cases, you must submit a new work permit application before your current permit expires.

Applying in time may give you maintained status, allowing you to keep working while IRCC processes your application. Missing the deadline could mean losing the right to work and needing to apply for restoration within 90 days.

Requirements depend on your permit type, so planning early is essential.

Learn more:

https://szikinger.ca/how-to-extend-a-work-permit-in-canada/

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Vancouver, BC
V6B3M1

Website

https://szikinger.ca/

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