I was wondering if this was still possible. I called the CIC but they said technically no, but they didn't forbid me from "trying". I've read other stories about success, but they're mostly outdated. I live in montreal, so it's not too difficult to go down to the border so i thought i would give it a shot.

some background. Im a US passport holder on a temporary work permit that will expire in 2 weeks. my company is working out the paperwork right now. The issue is that it takes 50 days even if i do it online, and i have a trip planned back to the states within those 50 days. if i apply online i will be on "implied status" and i understand i can't leave the country and come back in to be able to work legally until i have the proper work permit approved. This is the main issue.

Any tips? feedback?
TIA

An application for a new work permit may be processed at a port of entry, but this is not a renewal per se. Renewals can only be conducted via an inland application at the Case Processing Centre in Vegreville. There are reports of officials at ports of entry refusing to process new work permits when a valid work permit exists and others of such officers recommending the inland application; there is nothing specifically barring an application for a new work permit when one remains valid however.