Could use advice regarding PGWP application.

[TimoVink]

Hello all,

I am currently a student in Ontario, here under a study permit (I am from a visa-exempt country). I will graduate soon from a 4-year BSc program. I have a job offer in British Columbia (skilled work in my field of study) and would like to stay in Canada after graduation under a PGWP and could use some advice on how to acquire one as painlessly as possible. Here's a quick overview of my timeline:

June 25: Last exams. At this point I will have completed all program requirements and can request a letter from the university confirming this.
July 17-26: Planned holiday in the United States.
July 26: Entry back in to Canada at Vancouver International Airport.
July 27: Day my employer would ideally like me to start
July 28: Study permit expires.

I spoke to an immigration advisor at the university and he advised I apply at the border when arriving back in Canada on July 26 after my trip to the United States. He claimed that I should have no problems getting a PGWP on the spot given my situation. I'm worried since I can't find any sources backing up these claims.

If it is not possible to apply at the border, one alternative seem to be to apply online once I enter the country (on the 26th), remain in Canada under implied status, and wait for a decision from CIC. From what I understand I would be able to start work while waiting for a decision. I'm worried they will deny my entry with a permit that expires in two days however.

Finally I could apply online before leaving for my US holiday, but then I understand if I return that, even though I can enter the country, I will not be able to commence work until I hear back from CIC.

Is my understanding correct? Does anyone have any experience/advice for me? Please let me know if you need any additional information.

Thank you in advance.

 

[jubear]

Hello all,

I am currently a student in Ontario, here under a study permit (I am from a visa-exempt country). I will graduate soon from a 4-year BSc program. I have a job offer in British Columbia (skilled work in my field of study) and would like to stay in Canada after graduation under a PGWP and could use some advice on how to acquire one as painlessly as possible. Here's a quick overview of my timeline:

June 25: Last exams. At this point I will have completed all program requirements and can request a letter from the university confirming this.
July 17-26: Planned holiday in the United States.
July 26: Entry back in to Canada at Vancouver International Airport.
July 27: Day my employer would ideally like me to start
July 28: Study permit expires.

I spoke to an immigration advisor at the university and he advised I apply at the border when arriving back in Canada on July 26 after my trip to the United States. He claimed that I should have no problems getting a PGWP on the spot given my situation. I'm worried since I can't find any sources backing up these claims.

If it is not possible to apply at the border, one alternative seem to be to apply online once I enter the country (on the 26th), remain in Canada under implied status, and wait for a decision from CIC. From what I understand I would be able to start work while waiting for a decision. I'm worried they will deny my entry with a permit that expires in two days however.

Finally I could apply online before leaving for my US holiday, but then I understand if I return that, even though I can enter the country, I will not be able to commence work until I hear back from CIC.

Is my understanding correct? Does anyone have any experience/advice for me? Please let me know if you need any additional information.

Thank you in advance.

I suggest that you apply for your PGWP before you leave. I'm sure by now you've checked the current processing times. If not, go here at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/temp.asp So I don't think you can get your PGWP on the spot. The earlier you compile and submit your application, the better. You must apply for a post-graduation work permit within 90 days of receiving written confirmation from your college/university.

Secondly, unless your prospective employer is really understanding to let you work as you wait for CIC's decision on your application, please be aware that your employer can change their mind because of the issue of uncertainty to get a PGWP.

My advise; don't wait. Get to it. Start filling in the forms for online PGWP application. Compile other documents such as passport copy, photograph, request for a confirmation letter now such that you receive it on time when your final grades are in. Save $255 for the application ($155 for PGWP and $100 for OWP holder fee). In other words by the time you receive your confirmation letter from the college/university, everything else should be ready and uploaded.

Cheers!

 

[TimoVink]

Thanks for your input, I have seen that page before. Would this fall under the "Work Permit Extension (new employer) category?

If I were to apply online right after returning from my trip to the US I could stay in Canada under Implied Status, correct? What would/wouldn't I be allowed to do at this point? My current permit allows for "up to 20 hours a week" a week off-campus work, but I guess it also states I need to actively pursue full-time studies which I wouldn't be since I'd have graduated of course.

 

[jubear]

Thanks for your input, I have seen that page before. Would this fall under the "Work Permit Extension (new employer) category?

If I were to apply online right after returning from my trip to the US I could stay in Canada under Implied Status, correct? What would/wouldn't I be allowed to do at this point? My current permit allows for "up to 20 hours a week" a week off-campus work, but I guess it also states I need to actively pursue full-time studies which I wouldn't be since I'd have graduated of course.

What I wrote before was for the case of if you didn't travel.

However, if you travel and return to apply in time you will be under implied status. Looking at your timeline you return on July 26 and your current OCWP expires two days later. If you can apply for a WP extension before the current one expires, then you can continue working under the same conditions stated on your current WP until CIC makes a decision on your application (note: even if you applied to extend your stay under another category of temporary resident).

Cheers!