Should You Travel Outside Canada on Implied Status? Complete Guide for PGWP and Spousal Work Permit Applicants
When you’re on implied status in Canada—especially after applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) extension—it’s crucial to understand the risks of traveling abroad. At Globexa Immigration, we’ve received numerous inquiries from international students and workers facing family emergencies, asking:
“Can I travel outside Canada while on implied status?”
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down every scenario so you can make an informed decision.
1. What Is Implied Status?
Implied status allows you to stay and work legally in Canada while you wait for a decision on your application, as long as you applied before your current permit expired. However, implied status is only valid while you remain inside Canada.
2. Why You Should Not Travel While on Implied Status
If you’re thinking of leaving Canada while your PGWP or SOWP extension is still being processed, don’t—unless absolutely necessary. Here’s why:
1. You May Not Be Able to Return
If you don’t have a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or visa stamp on your passport, you cannot re-enter Canada.
If you have no permit or TRV, you’re essentially like a fresh applicant, and your return will depend on approval of a visitor visa.
2. Even with a Visa Stamp, Re-Entry Complicates Your Status
You may be allowed to return with a valid TRV, but you will be given a visitor record at the port of entry.
This means you will lose your right to work and will have to wait for your permit to be approved again before resuming work.
3. Loss of Work Eligibility and PR Time
During the visitor period, you cannot work.
You will lose valuable work experience required for PR.
You may lose 6 to 8 months of income and job tenure.
3. When Is It Safe to Travel?
If You Have:
A valid permit (e.g., PGWP or SOWP extension already approved)
A valid TRV (visa stamp on passport)
Then you may travel and return safely. However, apply for your TRV immediately after receiving your permit approval. Delaying your TRV application can put you in trouble if emergencies arise later.
4. When Not to Travel
1. If You Are on Implied Status
Once you leave Canada, implied status ends.
Returning means you enter as a visitor, not as a worker.
2. If You Have No Visa Stamp or Permit
You can leave Canada, but you cannot come back unless you apply and receive a new TRV from outside the country.
TRV processing times outside Canada can be long and uncertain.
Your TRV application can also be refused, especially if your permit is not yet approved.
5. Example: PGWP Travel Timeline
Let’s say:
You apply for PGWP in May 2025
You travel to India in June 2025 while on implied status and without a TRV
You return in July 2025 (after receiving a TRV from outside Canada)
At the border:
You are issued a visitor record
You wait 6–8 months (until around Feb 2026) for PGWP approval
During this time, you cannot work
That’s 6–7 months of lost work income and PR-eligible experience.
6. If You Must Travel: What to Do
If it’s unavoidable (e.g., medical emergency), follow this process:
Apply for a visitor visa (TRV) from outside Canada
Submit proof of implied status and application submission
There is no guarantee of approval
Wait for TRV approval
May take 30–45 days or more
Only after getting the visa stamp can you travel back
Re-enter Canada
You’ll be admitted as a visitor
Wait for permit approval to resume work
7. Special Warning for Extension Applications
If your application is an extension (PGWP extension, SOWP extension, study permit extension, visitor record extension):
You must stay inside Canada for the duration of processing.
Leaving the country violates the extension condition, and your application may be refused automatically.
8. How to Plan Travel Correctly
If you must visit family or attend a wedding:
Plan travel before submitting your PGWP or SOWP extension.
Travel while your current study/work permit and TRV are still valid.
After returning to Canada, then submit your application.
9. Final Checklist
✔ Do not leave Canada on implied status
✔ Apply for TRV immediately after permit approval
✔ Avoid extension application travel – it may get refused
✔ Plan all travel while your permit + visa are valid
✔ If you must leave, get TRV outside Canada before returning
Summary: Don’t Risk It
The immigration process is already stressful. Don’t make it worse by risking your status, job, or PR timeline. Emergencies are unpredictable, but proper planning and knowledge can save you months of hassle.
If you’re unsure or need help with your PGWP, SOWP extension, TRV application, or visitor visa:
📞 Contact Globexa Immigration
We help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your application is strong from the beginning.
