If you are an international student who has applied for your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) but have not yet received a decision, you may be concerned about the expiry date of your interim work authorization.

With increasing PGWP processing times, many graduates may already be nearing the end of their work authorization validity without a decision on their PGWP applications.

Fortunately, individuals in this situation can continue working full-time in Canada even after their interim work authorization validity date passes.

This article will explore the options available for individuals with expiring or expired work authorization letters to reassure Canadian employers of their eligibility to work.

Understanding the Situation

Interim work authorization letters (IMM 0127 E) are issued to international graduates eligible to work in Canada after applying for their PGWP.

These letters typically have a 180-day validity period. However, with current processing times for work permits in Canada at 227 days, some graduates may face expiration before receiving their PGWPs.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) clarifies that international graduates who have applied for their PGWP and meet all criteria can work full-time while awaiting a decision, even if the 180-day validity period of the letter expires.

Graduates with work status through an interim authorization letter are compliant with Canadian law by engaging in full-time employment while waiting for their PGWP application decision.

Note: Without an interim work authorization letter, you may not be authorized to work while awaiting a PGWP decision.

Applicants can work full-time while waiting for a decision if they meet specific criteria:

• Held a valid study permit when they applied for the PGWP;
• Completed their study program; and
• Were eligible to work off campus during their studies without exceeding permitted hours.

If your PGWP application is rejected, you must cease working upon notification from IRCC.

Providing Further Proof of Work Authorization

If your employer requests additional proof of your work authorization in Canada, you can take the following steps to ensure compliance:

Request Authorization Proof via IRCC’s Web Form

IRCC allows applicants needing more proof of work authorization to request it through the department’s official website.