If you can't use the "Opt-In" process, you can use this process instead for PGWP holders. It will 'only' cost $100. The recent expiry of your PGWP fits into the eligible dates below. And, WOW, PGWP folks can apply even if they are inside or outside of the 90 day restoration period.Yah. I thought so. That's why I haven't applied for PGWP extension yet. But still with all these IRCC silence on my applications and unlucky with getting a "free and faster" way of PGWP-ext, I feel like somehow my luck was just slipped away. FYI, I also already submitted for CEC on 29 Mar 2023. Knowing that I'm not that kind of lucky people that can have TR to PR approval early, I don't want to miss a single chance
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/post-graduation-work-permit-holders/apply-in-canada.html
Current and former post-graduation work permit holders: How to apply under a public policy if you’re in Canada
You must apply online for this open work permit on or before December 31, 2023.
You can’t apply at a port of entry.
You can only get this open work permit once, and it can’t be extended.
Who can apply
To be eligible for this open work permit, you must meet the following requirements:
- Your post-graduation work permit (PGWP) expired or will expire between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2023.
- You must include in your application the fact that you’re applying for an open work permit under this public policy.
- You have a valid passport.
- If your PGWP is still valid, the work permit will be issued for up to 18 months from the date your current PGWP expires or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
- If your PGWP has expired, the work permit will be issued for up to 18 months from the date your application is approved or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
- To maximize the duration of the open work permit, make sure your passport is valid for at least 18 months from the date your PGWP expires (if your PGWP is still valid) or from the date your application is approved (if your PGWP has expired).
- For example, if your passport is valid for 12 months, you will be issued an open work permit for 12 months.
- You either
- have temporary resident status (this could be from having a valid work permit, visitor record, study permit or temporary resident permit that allows you to stay in Canada)
- lost your temporary resident status, but have already applied to restore it, or
- lost your temporary resident status, but will apply to restore itat the same time as you apply for this open work permit
- This also applies if you lost your status more than 90 days ago.