Hi All. I have been in a rather unfortunate and complicated situation. I graduated last year and then applied for PGWP which I got for one year because of the similar issue you all had: my passport was expiring. I called CIC then and they explained me that I can apply for a renewal after getting my passport renewed. So, on 10th March 2017, I applied for extension of work permit online. I called CIC before applying and they gave me the form 5710E and the link. When I opened the link, it said right on top, 'click here to check if you are eligible to apply online'. So I applied online with all the documentation, my old passport and my degree and also a letter of explaination why i want the extension. I was still workng at my job, hoping it shouldnt be a problem. But then something unfortunate happened. I got a reply on 23rd April night saying my work permit has been refused because I dont fulfill the requirements and I am out of status. They didnt ask me to leave the country. I was devasted. I had also applied for PR in feburary on basis on PNP(ontario).
Sadly, I called CIC next day and asked why there was rejection, since all my documents were complete. They told me I was supposed to apply pn paper. That WAS THE SOLE REASON FOR REFUSAL. I was outraged. I work in IT department and that link said I can apply online as well. They also told me that since I have no status I cannot work and must reapply for restoration and extension via paper application. I took legal advice as well, and the lawyer told the same thing. So within a day I was jobless, totally shocked what has happened. I applied on May 3rd again via paper application. They said the processing time is 4 months. My employer sent me on unpaid leave but they said if I dont hear back in June, they will hire someone else. I dont have enough for rent and I am confused. When I call CIC they tell, that my application has not even gotten a file number so I am not yet in their system yet and I really dont know what I am supposed to do. I am clueless and jobless, and soon will be penniless. I really want to know if someone had a similar situation or any suggestions for me? Something to expediate the process. I am really stressed and desperate here.