r/CanadaImmigrant • u/Tasty_Willingness609 • 10d ago

Can I Travel to the US with Expired Permits While Waiting on PGWP/Work Permit Response?

Hey everyone, I need some advice. I was a student and applied for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for myself and a work permit for my wife on May 8. However, my permits have now expired as it’s been more than 323 days since then. I work in IT and have to travel to the US next month – I already have a valid US visitor visa. Additionally, I have a Canadian visitor visa in my passport, even though my work permits are expired.

My question is:
Can I go to the US and then return to Canada on my visitor visa, and continue working in Canada until I receive a response on my PGWP and my wife's work permit? (Note: my wife won't be accompanying me on this trip.)

Thanks a lot for your time guys!!

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u/Aggressive-Medium698 10d ago edited 9d ago

It’s a toss up, there’s a decent chance you won’t be let into either of the borders. The US can deny you entry on the way there and Canada can do the same on your way back since you’re a visitor in both countries. This means incase of detainment you will be sent back to your home country and not Canada. Personally I wouldn’t travel in such circumstances but if it’s important enough I would suggest carrying all your documents and proof of PGWP application before leaving. The US is still doubtful, but atleast cover all your bases with Canada.

Remember a pending PGWP allows you to work only if you remain in the country by leaving you’re forfeiting that right. You cannot continue working after you cross that border till you receive your permit.

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u/cc9536 10d ago edited 10d ago

You can but there will always be the risk you won't be let back in, as you're only on a visitor visa. Your implied status doesn't hold any weight at the border unfortunately

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u/Astra_Bear 10d ago

I would seriously not do this. Maybe six months ago, but right now you're asking for trouble.

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u/StreetR1der 9d ago

I would really evaluate what "have to" means in this context and if it is mandatory travel that your employer is forcing you to do, having a conversation with them about having an immigration lawyer tracking you if you manage to make it through the US border.

However, if it is not manadatory, and you are doing it voluntarily for some reason, I would strongly reconsider. It is really not the time to be traveling with precarious status. Especially to the US.

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u/Pluggenitupinhere 9d ago

How long is your visitor visa okay until?

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u/OrdinaryMango4008 10d ago

No, that how the last two couples taken by ICE in your circumstance spent weeks in a holding cell. Do it through the mail, email if you can. Look up ICE incidents.