How close to my student visa expiry can I travel back to Canada?

[curiouserandcuriouser]

Hello all!
I have a query that I'm looking for some expert opinions on. Here's my situation:

• My Background: I am an Indian citizen who was a postgraduate student in Toronto from 2019-2020. My course ended in the August of 2020, and I currently hold the "graduated" status. I now also have with me a Confirmation of Graduation and Final Transcript from my college. I intend to work for one year (the duration of my course) in Toronto now. However, I had to fly back to India due to the COVID crisis in March, and have been here since. In the meanwhile, I have been paying rent for my residence in Canada. I have been applying for jobs in Toronto from when I formally graduated (early September), but have had no luck so far. And my student visa is due to expire in the end of November.
• My Query: I now intend to apply for my PGWP, potentially right away. I believe that I cannot travel to Canada once my student visa expires and before my PGWP is granted. My question is, how close to the date of my student visa's expiry can I travel back into Canada, provided I have with me a copy of my PGWP application (is there something like a 30-day-prior-to-visa-expiry travel requirement)?
• Also, am I correct in understanding that if my student visa expires and I am still in India, I cannot travel back until my PGWP is granted, even though I have proof of application and residence in Toronto?

Could I also get some general advice about how much time it is taking for PGWPs to be granted nowadays, considering the COVID situation?
Many thanks in advance!

 

[primaprime]

You can try to enter on your study permit while it's still valid along with proof you have a residence in Toronto and PGWP application in process, but your lack of a job may still be an issue in terms of whether your travel is considered essential. After your study permit expires you cannot enter Canada until your PGWP is approved, unless you also hold a valid TRV/visitor visa.