Key terms explained
- Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — A school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. DLI status alone does not guarantee post-graduation work permit eligibility.
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) — An electronic entry requirement for many visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air; it is not a work or study permit.
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) — An assessment by Employment and Social Development Canada of the likely labour-market effect of hiring a foreign worker for a particular role.
- Maintained Status — The ability of some temporary residents who applied to extend status before expiry to remain under specified conditions while a decision is pending.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — An open work permit potentially available to graduates who satisfy current institution, program, study and application requirements.
- Restoration of Status — A time-limited process through which certain people who lost temporary resident status may apply to restore it, subject to eligibility.
- Visitor Record — A document that extends or limits a visitor’s authorized stay inside Canada; it is not a travel visa.
- Work Permit — Authorization allowing a foreign national to work in Canada under employer-specific or open conditions, subject to the permit and applicable law.