PGWP or PR

[Chikkie]

Hi, I graduated in 2016 after a 2years course and got my 3years PGWP. Worked and applied for PR through Express enter CEC scheme in April 2020 but my work permit expired while waiting due to covid so I had to do a program in school again but now as a student and I just graduated now but still no decision on my PR application only additional document requested and submittedin October 2020. I am lost and need advice on what to do please as I don't intend to study again anytime soon and I wouldn't like to be out of status. Advice please.

 

[scylla]

Hi, I graduated in 2016 after a 2years course and got my 3years PGWP. Worked and applied for PR through Express enter CEC scheme in April 2020 but my work permit expired while waiting due to covid so I had to do a program in school again but now as a student and I just graduated now but still no decision on my PR application only additional document requested and submittedin October 2020. I am lost and need advice on what to do please as I don't intend to study again anytime soon and I wouldn't like to be out of status. Advice please.

You should apply to change your status to visitor if you want to remain in Canada.

The alternative would be to find an employer who is willing to give you a job offer and approved LMIA so that you can apply for a closed work permit.

 

[Chikkie]

Thanks for your prompt response.
Would my PR application that is pending decision still be valid if I apply to change my status to visitor? And, the study permit and co-op work permit I have is still valid till November, can I use it to work normally and then apply for a change of status say a month to it's expiration?

 

[scylla]

Thanks for your prompt response.
Would my PR application that is pending decision still be valid if I apply to change my status to visitor? And, the study permit and co-op work permit I have is still valid till November, can I use it to work normally and then apply for a change of status say a month to it's expiration?

Yes, your PR application that is pending decision will still be valid if you change your status to visitor.

No, you can't continue working. You've finished school. The only way you'd be able to continue working is if you qualify for a PGWG and submit a PGWP application. However you can only hold a PGWP once in a lifetime so you unfortunately do not qualify for a second one.

 

[Chikkie]

Thank you so much I appreciate.

 

[scylla]

Thank you so much I appreciate.

FYI - you can also return to your home country and wait / work there and the CEC application will still be valid. There is no requirement for you to be in Canada to be approved.