Can You Keep Working If Your PGWP Is Still Processing but Your Interim Work Authorization Has Expired?

Many international students applying for their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) face a common concern: their interim work authorization expires before IRCC makes a decision on their application. With work permit processing times increasing, this situation has become even more common.

The important news is that eligible PGWP applicants may continue working full-time in Canada even after the validity date on their interim authorization letter has passed. This rule allows many graduates to maintain employment legally while waiting for their PGWP approval.

This blog explains who can continue working, what documents employers may need, and how to confirm your work authorization while your application is in progress.

Understanding the Interim Work Authorization Letter

After submitting a PGWP application, eligible graduates receive an interim work authorization letter, also known as IMM 0127 E. This document allows them to work in Canada while IRCC reviews their application.

The letter is usually valid for 180 days. However, current processing times for in-Canada work permits are longer than 180 days. This means some applicants may see their letter expire before receiving their PGWP.

IRCC clearly states that international graduates may continue working full-time while waiting for a decision, even if the 180-day validity period of the letter has expired, provided they meet all eligibility criteria.

This means that graduates with an expired interim work authorization are still fully compliant with Canadian immigration rules as long as they meet the required conditions.

Note: If you did not receive an interim work authorization letter, you may not be allowed to work during the processing period.

Who Is Eligible to Continue Working?

To legally work full-time while waiting for a PGWP decision, you must meet all of the following conditions:

1. You had a valid study permit when you submitted your PGWP application.
2. You completed your study program.
3. You were eligible to work off campus during your studies without a separate work permit and did not work more hours than allowed.
   
   

If IRCC refuses or rejects your PGWP application, you must stop working immediately once you receive the refusal notice.

What to Do If Your Employer Needs Proof of Your Work Authorization

Some employers may ask for confirmation that you are still legally allowed to work. In this case, you have several options to provide additional proof.

1. Request Proof Through the IRCC Web Form

IRCC allows applicants to request written confirmation of their work authorization through their official web form. The web form is used to ask questions about your file, submit documents, or request confirmation of your status.

You can complete an inquiry by selecting the type of request, entering your application details, and submitting it online.

2. Provide Supporting Documents Directly to Your Employer

If you need immediate proof, you can show your employer a combination of the following documents:

• Your interim work authorization letter
• Proof of program completion, such as:

• An official completion letter from your school, or
• An official or downloadable transcript
  • A copy of your study permit
• To work immediately, it must include the condition:
  “May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria per paragraph R186(f), (v) or (w); must cease working if no longer meeting these criteria.”
  • A copy of the acknowledgement of receipt (AOR) for your PGWP application, if you submitted it online
• The AOR must have been issued before your study permit expired
  
  

These documents together help demonstrate that you remain authorized to work while your PGWP is being processed.

Final Thoughts

International graduates waiting for their PGWP decision can continue working full-time in Canada even if their interim work authorization expires, as long as they meet IRCC’s requirements. Employers may ask for additional proof, but graduates can provide supporting documents or request written confirmation from IRCC.