Why applying for visitor visa in Canada after PGWP expires is not a good idea

In the past, students who completed their PGWP could proceed towards PR. However, with the tightening of immigration laws, many students now see few viable options for remaining in Canada. As a result, many students are now applying for visitor visas, which would allow them to stay in the country for a few more months. However, students who had applied for visitor visa, have already begun receiving notices to leave Canada. In such a situation, experts are advising against using visitor visa to extend stay. The Indian Express explains why:

What is a visitor visa and how long can a person stay in a foreign country with it?

With a visitor visa, people can stay in Canadafor up to 6 months. The border services officer may allow a shorter or longer stay, noting the departure date in passport or issuing a visitor record. If no stamp is given, one can stay for 6 months from the entry date or until one’s passport or biometrics expire. Also people on visitor visa are not allowed to work in Canada. Due to the earlier positive trend in visitor visa, most students with expired PGWP thought of applying for this as a quick solution.

Why experts are advising students to not apply for visitor visa?

Experts explain that, due to the current high refusal rates for visitor visas and the perception that students might attempt to extend their stay once their PGWP expires, applying for a visitor visa could raise concerns. While applying for a visitor visa may seem like a quick fix, it is not a safe strategy, experts warn. The risk of visa refusal, deportation, and future complications is too high. Immigration authorities may view the application as an attempt to circumvent the immigration process, which typically leads to refusal.

How does the online application system affect visitor visa applications for those with an expired or near-expired PGWP?

The online application system allows Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to easily access records. This means that an expired or soon-to-expire work permit, along with the fact that a student no longer has legal status, will be clearly visible. “The IRCC will likely see your visitor visa application as an attempt to overstay your legal status in Canada, which significantly reduces your chances of approval and could even result in deportation,” said Gurpreet Singh, an immigration expert from Kapurthala.

What are the risks of applying for visitor visa with expired PGWP or without legal status in Canada?

“Without valid status, such as a work permit or study permit, applying for a visitor visa exposes you to significant risks. If your visitor visa is refused and you do not have valid status, you could face deportation. This could complicate future visa applications and damage your record, making it harder to return to Canada later,” Singh said.

What are some safer alternatives for candidates whose PGWP is about to end?

Experts say that to stay in Canada legally after the PGWP expires, one needs to re-apply for a study permit to pursue further studies in another field. This will allow you to stay in Canada legally while gaining additional qualifications, which can improve your chances of finding a good job. And secure a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) job offer. An LMIA is proof from your employer that no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available for the position. This can allow you to apply for a work permit and may open doors to permanent residency.

What is the advice for the students who have completed their studies and just got their PGWP?

Such students should strengthen their profiles for future immigration applications. Tirath Singh of Jalandhar’s Pinnacle immigration said that students nearing the end of their studies or completed and have just got PGWP—which typically lasts between one to three years, depending on the course—should focus on enhancing their skills and work experience from the very beginning to avoid deportation at the end of PGWP. Taking short courses or certifications that are in high demand can help students qualify for jobs in Canada. This will not only improve their job prospects but also increase their chances of settling in Canada when applying for PR. For every new student, the better strategy is to focus on long-term career development—by acquiring in-demand skills or taking short-term, relevant courses. These efforts will improve your employability and enhance chances of obtaining permanent residency in the future.