Can I work in Canada while my PGWP application is being processed?
Whether you can work while your PGWP application is being processed depends on your situation when you applied. If you applied for the PGWP while your study permit was still valid and your study permit included work authorization (such as off-campus work authorization), you may be able to continue working under the conditions of your study permit during processing.
IRCC also issues a "bridging" provision in some circumstances that allows continued work while a permit application is in processing — but this does not apply to everyone and the conditions are specific. If your study permit had no work authorization, or if it already expired, the rules are different.
Because unauthorized work is a serious permit violation under federal law, you should confirm with an immigration lawyer or IRCC whether you are authorized to work before starting or continuing employment while your PGWP is being processed. Do not rely on assumptions or what you heard from classmates.
Key takeaways
- Work authorization during PGWP processing depends on your prior study permit conditions
- Continued work may be permitted if your study permit included work authorization
- Unauthorized work is a serious federal immigration violation
- Confirm your specific authorization before starting or continuing any job during processing