PGWP + restoration refused
I graduated from the University of Manitoba and applied for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). My first two applications were refused because of part-time semesters that happened during the pandemic while I was studying remotely before I had even entered Canada or received a study permit. The representatives helping me at the time argued that those semesters should not affect my PGWP eligibility, but IRCC still refused the applications.
After my second refusal, I lost my status and was informed that I had 90 days to apply for restoration. That’s when I hired an immigration lawyer and spent a lot of money trying to properly fix the situation through another application and restoration request.
For the third application, we acknowledged the part-time terms and explained the circumstances surrounding them, including the pandemic and me taking care of my grandmother who had cancer. However, the application was refused because IRCC stated that more than 180 days had passed since I completed my studies. My restoration request was also refused.
The difficult part for me is that IRCC took about a year to make a decision on my second application while I remained in Canada waiting for the result. During that time, I had authorization to remain and work while the application was being processed. I genuinely believed I was following the proper process and trying to remain compliant throughout everything.
During this period, I was also building my career and working full time as a software developer after graduation.
I have now been advised to leave Canada. I lost my job after the 2nd rejection and it seems like I'm about to lose everything else. From the moment I came to Canada I have worked hard towards getting my degree and setting up my career in an already competitive field, at every point I tried to do everything the right way. My only mistake was caused by a global pandemic, a very unique situation.
At this point, I’m honestly extremely overwhelmed financially and mentally. I’ve spent so much trying to handle this properly and every next step seems to cost even more money.
I’m trying to figure out the safest path forward from here.
I’m not really posting this for legal advice since I’m already speaking with professionals. I mostly just wanted to share my situation because I know there are probably other international students dealing with long processing delays and complicated immigration situations too.