Hello all,

OK, so I was in Canada in a SWAP program and then received an offer of full-time employment from my current company (I worked for the same company for my entire trip). I sent off for the LMO and the CAQ (cos it's in Montreal) but had to submit my extension application before I received the decisions from LMO and CAQ.

Unfortunately, the LMO and CAQ did not arrive before my work permit extension application was processed, and so it was denied and I need to resubmit.

My question is, what is my exact legal status now?.... I believe I am currently in Canada without any status... and I know I need to apply for a temporary resident status.

Am I allowed to continue working at all? My HR says no, but I've heard (unofficially) from an immigration lawyer that a 90 day grace period exists??? Is this true, or is the 90 days just the grace period to allow me to re-apply without me being considered an illegal immigrant?

Any help you can give me will be most appreciated
Thanks

The information that you have provided suggests that you are out of status. Under such circumstances, you are not permitted to continue to work. Within 90 days of this happening, you may seek reinstatement of your status and then a new work permit.