Can I Keep Working If My PGWP Is Still Processing But My Interim Work Authorization Has Expired?
Introduction
Nhiều du học sinh quốc tế sau khi tốt nghiệp đã nộp hồ sơ xin Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) nhưng vẫn chưa nhận được kết quả. Trong khi đó, interim work authorization (thư cho phép làm việc tạm thời sau khi nộp PGWP) lại sắp hết hạn hoặc đã hết hạn, khiến không ít người lo lắng liệu mình có còn được tiếp tục làm việc hợp pháp hay không.
Bài viết này sẽ giải thích rõ quy định của IRCC, hướng dẫn cách chứng minh với nhà tuyển dụng rằng bạn vẫn đủ điều kiện làm việc toàn thời gian tại Canada trong thời gian chờ quyết định PGWP.

1. What is Interim Work Authorization?
Interim Work Authorization (IMM 0127 E) là thư cho phép du học sinh được làm việc toàn thời gian sau khi nộp hồ sơ PGWP. Thư này thường có hiệu lực 180 ngày.
However, the PGWP processing time is currently up to about 227 days, which means many of you may have your temporary work authorization letter expire before receiving your PGWP.
The good news is: IRCC confirms that international students who have applied for a PGWP are eligible to continue working full-time even after the 180-day temporary letter has expired.
2. When will you be able to resume full-time work?
According to IRCC guidelines, you are allowed to continue working if you meet the following three conditions:
- Hold a valid study permit at the time of submitting your PGWP.
- Completed the program.
- Be eligible to work off-campus during school hours and not exceed the permitted number of hours as prescribed.
If you meet all three conditions above, you are still working legally under Canadian immigration law, regardless of the expiration of your temporary letter.
Important Note:
- If you do not receive interim work authorization, you cannot work while waiting for your PGWP.
- If your PGWP is refused, you must stop working immediately upon receiving notice from IRCC.
3. If your employer asks for confirmation that you are still allowed to work
Many employers want additional documentation to confirm the legality of the employment. You can provide the following types of evidence.
3.1. Request confirmation from IRCC via Webform
Applicants can submit a request for confirmation of work status through the IRCC Webform, IRCC's online contact tool.
Webform allows you to:
- Send questions about the profile,
- Send additional documents as requested,
- Ask IRCC for written confirmation that you are authorized to work.
You can access the Webform by searching for “IRCC web form” on the IRCC main page or through the “Contact Us” section.
3.2. Present supporting documents to the employer
In case of immediate need to provide evidence, you can submit the following documents:
(1) Proof of completion of the study program
- Letter of confirmation of graduation from school, or
- Official transcript (paper copy or download from student system).
(2) Copy of study permit
Study permit must have the following line:
“May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria per paragraph R186(f), (v) or (w); must cease working if no longer meet these criteria.”
(3) Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) when submitting PGWP online
AOR must be issued before the study permit expires.
These documents will help reassure employers that you are still legally allowed to work in Canada while your PGWP is pending approval.
Conclusion
If you have applied for a PGWP and are eligible, you are allowed to continue working full-time in Canada, even after your temporary work permit expires. Understanding your rights and preparing the right documents will help you maintain stable employment and avoid unnecessary disruption.