A student whose studies were ending in April, with a study permit valid until September, asked whether they could work during the 10-15 day gap before applying for their post-graduation work permit.
What the group explained:- You cannot legally work until you have applied for and hold status under a work permit application. It was noted that some people informally work anyway and simply report that income in a later pay period once their work permit is active — but this was flagged as a workaround, not a compliant approach.
Practical takeaway:- Working before your work permit application is submitted (and before you have implied status to work) is not authorized, even if your study permit is technically still valid.
- Apply for your PGWP as early as possible after finishing your program to minimize any gap.
- Avoid relying on informal workarounds, since working without authorization can create serious problems for future applications.