question... what people normally do after work visa expires while waiting PR

[choikugi]

Hi,


I applied for CEC May 2011 and my application is in Seattle now. And there is no more status update after 'Application received'

As my work graduation visa expires in July 28 2012, I am wondering what options I have while I wait for passport request.

1. Can I apply for temporary resident visa while I am in Canada ? If so, I guess I have to send my passport to get stamp. So it means it will take at least 2 months as one month (for temporary resident visa) + one month (sending and receiving passport for PR)

2. Is it possible to get visitor visa if I go outside of Canada and come back to Canada ?
If so, can I leave and come back to Canada before July 28 2012(=work visa expiry date)

3. Is it possible to change my mailing address to my home country and send and receive passport from my home country?

4. Please let me know if there is any other option(s).



Thank you for reading my questions. I really hoped my document was sent to any other office other than Seattle office.
God knows why...

 

[SenoritaBella]

1. Yes, but if you want a temporary resident visa (TRV) as a worker, you must first extend your work permit beyond July 28th, before you can apply. Note that as of May 29th, 2012, TRV applications are now sent to CPP-Ottawa (Buffalo office is closed). Your permanent residence application is separate from your TRV application.

2. It's possible to apply for a visitor visa and you do not have to leave the country first. It's recommended to apply at least 30 days before your work permit expires. See this: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/visitor.asp

3. It is advisable to notify CIC of a change in address when you move. You will have to mail your passport to the visa office handling your file. Not sure how they will return passports but you can check with the CIC call centre to be sure.

As for options, ask your employer if they would apply for a LMO. If you were hired under a post graduate work permit, they don't have to advertise the job or show recruitment efforts when they apply for the LMO. If the LMO approved, you can apply for a work permit. Goodluck!