Others have received similar advice from IRCC agents. It is technically wrong, since IEC visas aren't eligible for extension and thus shouldn't get the benefit of implied status as worker.
In any case, since your application was returned as incomplete, I'm not 100 percent sure if you ever had implied status (of any kind) since you technically never submitted an application.
If you are still working you need to stop immediately since you would definitely be working illegally.
Also immediately apply for restoration of status as a visitor, as you have only a limited time frame to do so.
With all these extra hoops to jump through, an outland application may be an option you might want to consider at this point.
Hi Andy. Thanks very much for this. Why is CIC giving out incorrect information? Here is a screenshot from the email they sent:
https://pasteboard.co/I35dtvM.png
As you can see from the last section, you can understand my confusion!
I see my timeframe for restoring status is 90 days. My IEC expired mid-January. How long does restoring status take?
And you mention an outland application - how would I do this if I'm currently in Canada? And how long does it typically take?
Thanks Andy!
EDIT - the "Another Type of WP" link takes you to this page:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/temporary/work-permit-types.html which mentions the OWP that is part of the PR application.
EDIT 2 - here is the entire email from CIC:
Good day,
Thank you for contacting Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. As discussed, you will find below complementary information to our conversation:
Implied status - IEC
If you are a participant in the
International Experience Canada (IEC) program and you apply for:
- A subsequent work permit (WP) under one of the IEC eligible categories, you cannot continue working after the expiration of your current WP until you obtain the new one,
- if you want to stay in Canada during the process of your subsequent WP under IEC, you need to apply to extend your stay in Canada as a visitor or student at the latest on the expiry date of your existing WP,
- Another type of WP at the latest on the expiry date of your WP under IEC, and it expires before a decision is made, you can continue working under the same conditions as your existing WP, as long as you remain in Canada.
For more helpful information, we invite you to consult the
Extend or change your work permit - International Experience Canada page.
Leaving and re-entering Canada while under implied status:
You may be authorized to re-enter Canada:
- As a temporary resident, if your application to extend your stay has not yet been approved (if applicable, it will be important to wait until you receive your new permit before you start to work/ study):
- this applies to you if, among other things:
- you are temporary resident visa (TRV) exempt,
- you hold a valid multiple-entry visa, or
- you have travelled only to the United States (including its Territories and Possessions) and/or St.Pierre and Miquelon,
- As a worker or student:
- if the officer determines that your application to extend your WP was approved while you were outside Canada, or
- if you are eligible to apply for a new work or study permit at your arrival in Canada.
An officer will ask you questions to see if you meet all of the requirements before allowing you to come back to Canada.
Proof of implied status:
It is recommended that you provide these documents to prove that you have implied status:
- Your expired immigration document,
- (If the application was submitted by paper) A copy of the application to extend your stay sent to the Case Processing Centre before the expiration date of your status,
- (If the application was submitted online) A copy of the Confirmation of Online Application Transmission message in your online account,
- A copy of the fee payment receipt included with the application, and
- (If applicable) A delivery confirmation from the postal service provider used to send the application.
More information on implied status is also available on our
website.
