Group members confirmed two related points for anyone applying to extend a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) before it expires:
- Check the specific eligibility criteria for PGWP extensions first — not everyone qualifies, so confirm your situation falls under one of the recognized extension categories before assuming continued work is automatic.
- If you submit your extension application before your current PGWP expires and maintain your status, you are generally permitted to keep working under implied status while IRCC processes the extension — you don't need to stop working and wait for a decision.
- You can continue working right up until a decision is made on the new work permit application, as long as your status has been properly maintained throughout.
- Work performed during this implied-status period can count toward Canadian Experience Class (CEC) eligibility, provided the underlying work permit criteria (authorized work, correct NOC/TEER level, hours) are otherwise met — the gap in permit status itself isn't automatically disqualifying.
Practical takeaway: apply for your PGWP extension before expiry, keep documentation showing your application was submitted while your permit was still valid, and continue working as normal — the implied-status period should still count toward your CEC work experience clock.