February 13, 2026

Traveling Outside Canada While on Maintained Status

If you’re in Canada on a work permit or transitioning to a Post-Graduation Work Permit, your legal status determines whether you can continue working while waiting for a decision from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Many applicants rely on “maintained status” after filing an extension or PGWP application before their permit expires. 

Traveling Outside Canada While on Maintained Status

But what happens if you travel outside Canada before approval? Under Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations sections 186(u) and 186(w), leaving the country can immediately affect your right to work. In many cases, you may be allowed to re-enter Canada only as a visitor—without authorization to work—until your new permit is issued. Understanding the travel risks before you leave can protect your employment and your status.

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About Gateway to Canada

Gateway to Canada  is a consortium of immigration service providers specializing in delivering a comprehensive range of services tailored to address the diverse needs of individuals seeking visa applications for Canada. Our array of services encompasses assistance with visa applications, support for school admissions, landing services, financial planning, provision of insurance, and investment guidance. 


Proactive Immigration Advisers Corp
Proactive Immigration Advisers Corp is a Philippine-based company that offers documentation assistance services, it manages and operates Canadian Immigration Consultancy in Alabang.

RRJ Global Canada Immigration Inc
RRJ Immigration is a licensed Canadian immigration consultancy managed by Rowena Andrade with Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) License No. R1036485.​ ​Rowena Andrade serves as the Chief Immigration Consultant of the Gateway to Canada consortium. She handles TRV, PR and LMIA Applications

PIACORP Consultancy & Services, Inc.
PIACORP Consultancy & Services, Inc. is a Canadian corporation registered with the Federal Government and with the Provincial Government of Ontario. PIACORP is primarily an International Education Agent connecting learners and learning institutions. ​ Established with a vision to empower individuals and businesses to thrive globally, it offers a comprehensive suite of services that cater to diverse needs. PIACORP is more than just a consultancy firm; it is your strategic partners in navigating the complex landscape of international education, business, and development.

Apuntar Legal Services
Based in Mississauga, Ontario, Apuntar Legal Services was established by Apol Apuntar with a mission: to make quality legal support available to everyone, regardless of their background or financial means. With a strong foundation in Human Rights Law, Employment Law, Immigration Law (IRB), and civil and tribunal matters, Apuntar Legal Services serve a diverse clientele throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

Cachapero Paralegal and Notary Services
Joselo Cachapero is a licensed paralegal and Notary Public with over a decade of experience serving Mississauga and the Greater Toronto Area since 2013. He holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Saint Louis University. His practice areas include landlord and tenant matters, provincial offences, immigration (IAD), and tribunal proceedings. He is a member in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.

With an outstanding team of seasoned professionals, Gateway to Canada ensures unwavering support and guidance for our esteemed clients throughout the immigration process and their settlement in Canada. Our mission is to empower individuals with the utmost efficiency and help them achieve their desired goals by providing an unparalleled journey to Canada.