Query Regarding PGWP and Travel

[the_eye]

Hi All,

I have a study permit until July of this year. Now I finish my Master's program in April, with a potential graduation in June.

My question is: Can I travel out of the country in May? When I enter back for my graduation, do I still enter with the Study Permit or is that no longer valid because technically my courses get over in April and my results would be out around then as well?

Second Question, Do I need to go for Biometrics? (I've not given Biometrics while applying for Study Permit).

Thanks.

 

[21Goose]

Do you have a valid visa, or are you from a visa-exempt country? If yes, then you can travel.

You should apply for a PGWP before you travel. If your official results are out, you should be able to apply. Check with your school's immigration person.

If you apply for a PGWP, and do NOT leave Canada, you will be in implied status and will be allowed to work full time as if you already had the PGWP.

If you apply for a PGWP and DO leave Canada, you will lose your implied status and won't be able to work till you actually have your PGWP approved. However, you should be able to leave and return with a valid visa/ETA. You will be admitted as a visitor.

You can tell CBSA you've applied for a PGWP and that makes it easier for them to let you back in, since they know that you're very likely to be approved and then you'll be back anyway. If you haven't applied for a PGWP it looks a bit odd.

Of course, if your school tells you that you cannot apply for a PGWP till your graduation, then you don't need to worry about this. You can leave and re-enter on a valid visa/ETA as a visitor.