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Success: H&C Approval in Principle (AIP)

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In 2026, it is difficult to recommend the Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) application to new clients. IRCC has severely cut the program and current processing times are more than 10 years. We have been helping clients through this program for more than 20 years. Today, we are very pleased to share an important decision related to an application that has been in process for a long time. This case reminds us why this immigration pathway exists and why we can still be hopeful despite the challenges.

Background

Our client originally submitted an H&C application together with her husband and children as a family on their own. However, while the application was still in process, their circumstances changed dramatically. Our client experienced abuse within the relationship and separated from her husband.

It was at this difficult point that she came to Clarke Immigration Law seeking help. Her primary concern was whether she could separate herself from the existing H&C application and continue her immigration process independently from her husband.

Our team stepped in to assist with this significant change in circumstances. We communicated with IRCC, explained the situation and requested that her case be separated from her husband’s application and processed independently. This was a critical turning point in her case. What had originally been submitted as one family’s immigration application now needed to move forward based on our client’s own circumstances and the humanitarian factors.

In early October 2025, our office submitted a request to IRCC to separate our client from the original family H&C application so that her case could proceed independently from her husband’s.

By the end of that same month, we had already seen significant progress: IRCC created a separate application for our client, assigned her a new application number, and requested the biometrics fee as part of the continued processing of her H&C application. This was an important confirmation that her immigration journey could continue independently despite the breakdown of the relationship and the difficult circumstances that had brought her to our office.

Then, in June 2026, we received the news we had been hoping for: IRCC confirmed that our client met the eligibility requirements and approved her H&C application in principle (AIP).

This was an especially significant milestone considering everything that had changed since the family originally applied. It is also remarkable in the context of today’s extraordinarily long H&C processing times, with most new applicants in the H&C currently facing an expected wait of more than 10 years for a final decision.

Approval in Principle means that IRCC has assessed the humanitarian and compassionate factors and determined that the application meets the eligibility requirements in principle. Permanent residence has not yet been finalized, and the client must still satisfy the remaining requirements, including applicable medical, security and admissibility requirements.

AIP also creates important new opportunities. While awaiting the final decision on permanent residence, our client may now apply for authorization to work or study in Canada, helping her continue rebuilding an independent and stable life for herself and her children.

Conclusion

H&C applications exist for situations where the ordinary immigration system may not adequately reflect the reality of a person’s circumstances.

Life can change dramatically while an application is being processed. In our client’s case, separating from her husband meant that the immigration plan originally created for the family could no longer continue in the same way. But it did not mean that all hope was lost.

We are proud to have supported our client through this difficult transition and look forward to continuing to assist them toward the final goal: Permanent Residence in Canada.

 

Success: PGWP (Part-time studies)

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International students who submit Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) applications are subject to strict rules. The rules for the PGWP were amended in 2025 and then IRCC made additional changes to the program in 2026. There has been significant confusion regarding the new rules and we have heard from students that many PGWP applications are being refused. The recent protest in Calgary and the subsequent arrest of some graduates was related to the changes to the PGWP program. 

In this case, our client faced a difficult situation. PGWP applicants are generally expected to maintain full-time student status during each academic session, subject to limited exceptions. Part-time semesters can therefore create significant concerns when IRCC assesses PGWP eligibility and part-time studies can lead to a refusal.

This was the central issue in our client’s case.

Our client came to Canada from India in October 2021 to study at a university in Montreal, Quebec. He successfully completed a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in May 2026; however, his academic record included part-time semesters in Fall 2022 and Winter 2023, creating a significant potential issue for his first PGWP application. It could have been refused.

ACADEMIC HISTORY AND PART-TIME STUDIES

Our client faced significant academic challenges while adjusting to life and studies in Canada, which resulted in Failed Standing at the end of the 2021–2022 academic year. He was subsequently readmitted under Academic Probation.

As a condition of his readmission, the university required him to study part-time, with a maximum course load of nine credits for two consecutive semesters. His part-time enrollment was therefore not a voluntary decision.

After improving his academic standing, he was permitted to resume full-time studies in August 2023 and successfully completed his degree in May 2026.

LEGAL STRATEGY

Our client contacted Clarke Immigration Law in May 2026. He knew that his PGWP could be refused and he did not want to risk losing his status in Canada. A lawyer at CIL met with him to discuss his legal options. After reviewing his academic and immigration history, we identified the part-time semesters as the primary issue. He retained our office to assist him to prepare and submit his PGWP application, including a detailed explanation – Statutory Declaration.

Our application provided IRCC with the broader context behind his academic record, including his ADHD-related difficulties, Failed Standing, Academic Probation, the university-imposed nine-credit restriction, and his efforts to return to full-time studies.

We prepared a detailed Statutory Declaration, supported by academic and medical documentation, to provide a clear and chronological explanation of the circumstances.

APPLICATION TIMELINE

  • October 2021 – Client arrived in Canada as an international student
  • Fall 2022 / Winter 2023 – Part-time studies under Academic Probation conditions
  • August 2023 – Permission granted to resume full-time studies
  • May 5, 2026 – Consultation with Clarke Immigration Law, retainer signed
  • May 2026 – Bachelor of Arts in Economics completed
  • June 26, 2026 – PGWP application submitted
  • July 7, 2026 – PGWP approved

PGWP APPROVED IN ONLY 11 DAYS

Despite the concerns created by his part-time academic history, our client can now move forward and gain valuable Canadian work experience.

Every immigration application is assessed individually, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. However, this case demonstrates the importance of identifying potential eligibility concerns before submission and addressing them directly with clear explanations and supporting evidence.

Part-time studies, gaps, academic probation, medical circumstances, or other complications in an academic history can create concerns in a PGWP application. Applicants should not assume that IRCC will automatically understand the circumstances shown on their transcript.

If your academic history is complicated, obtaining professional advice before submitting your PGWP application can help identify potential risks and determine how they should be addressed.

 

Success: Visitor Record while PR application in process

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At Clarke Immigration Law, we regularly assist individuals who need to maintain lawful status in Canada while pursuing permanent residence through family sponsorship. While that application is in process, we do our best to ensure our clients remain in status up to the point they are granted PR. We want to commend Michelle for working with this family and all the time she spent on this file.

In a recent matter, our office represented an individual whose work permit extension application was refused while transitioning to permanent residence through an in-Canada spousal sponsorship application under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada (SCLPC) class.

Following the refusal, the client required restoration of status to remain in Canada lawfully while awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application. We are pleased to report that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) approved the restoration application and issued a Visitor Record valid for approximately two years.

BACKGROUND

Our client came to CIL with a complex immigration history. She had been in a spousal relationship that broke down. She has a child from that relationship. She then connected with a Canadian citizen and they got married. Her former partner applied for PR status based on an Economic Class application and he included their child in that application.

The case involved several important factors:

  • Client has a complex history with her former partner;
  • CIL was retained to prepare and submit a spousal sponsorship permanent residence application inside Canada;
  • Client (self-represented) applied for a work permit extension application and that was refused;
  • Client was within the 90-day restoration period permitted under IRCC regulations;
  • It is recommended the applicant remain in lawful status while awaiting processing of a permanent residence application; and,
  • Family circumstances that supported the client’s continued temporary residence in Canada during processing.

As many applicants discover, processing times for in-Canada spousal sponsorship applications can be lengthy. Maintaining valid temporary resident status during this period is recommended.

HOW WE HELPED

The team at CIL was retained to assist the client with maintaining lawful status in Canada while preparing and pursuing permanent residence through the SCLPC application.

Unfortunately, CIL was not retained for the work permit extension application and that was refused. Client advised that she read on social media that her work permit could be extended and she wanted to give it a try. This, of course, was a bad decision and it could have led to serious issues. Thankfully, IRCC processed the application quickly and our client was within the 90 day period. We have warned clients that IRCC procedures have significantly changed and social media is not a good source of accurate information. 

To fix the situation, we prepared and submitted a Restoration of Status application requesting a Visitor Record.

Our team carefully reviewed the client’s circumstances and prepared a comprehensive application supported by relevant documentation. Given the anticipated processing time for the permanent residence application, we also requested a longer-duration Visitor Record to provide stability while processing continues.

By ensuring the application was complete and properly supported, we were able to present a strong application aligned with current immigration requirements.

TIMELINE

  • May 2025 – Client retained CIL to assist with immigration planning and status maintenance
  • October 2025 – In-Canada Spousal Sponsorship (SCLPC) permanent residence application submitted
  • November 2025 – Work permit extension application refused (CIL was not retained for this application.)
  • Within the restoration period – Restoration of status and Visitor Record application submitted
  • April 2026 – Restoration approved and Visitor Record issued.

OUTCOME

The restoration application was approved, and IRCC issued a Visitor Record valid until February 2028.

The approval allows the client to remain lawfully in Canada while awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application.

With lawful status secured, the client can remain in Canada while awaiting further processing of the spousal sponsorship application. Once an AOR is issued, the client may also be eligible to apply for an open work permit, subject to meeting current IRCC requirements.

The extended validity period provides meaningful stability and reduces the need for multiple future applications while permanent residence processing continues.

TAKEAWAY

A refusal of a work permit application does not necessarily mean that an individual must immediately leave Canada. Depending on the circumstances, restoration of status may be available, allowing a person to regain legal status and remain in Canada while pursuing other immigration pathways. It is imperative that applicants seek professional guidance as soon as they receive the IRCC refusal. 

Applications involving restoration of status, Visitor Records, dual intent, and in-Canada spousal sponsorship often require careful planning and well-supported submissions. Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts and circumstances involved.

At CIL, we help clients navigate complex immigration situations with practical, strategic, and results-focused representation designed to maintain lawful status and family unity while longer-term immigration goals are pursued.

 

NEWS: High refusal rates for TRV for FIFA

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The team at CIL has been actively watching the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. We have team members from many countries at the World Cup. There has been some friendly rivalry within the office. We love to help our clients come to Canada to cheer on their teams.

Canada is a host country for this event and the venues have been packed with fans. Unfornately, IRCC has been refusing many TRV applications for people who want to come and see their teams play in person.

As reported by CTVNews, the approval rates for TRV (Visitor Visas) has been extremely low. Most people have been refused entry to Canada. As reported:

Overall, citizens of countries that require eTAs to enter Canada had an approval rate of 96 per cent, compared to just 32 per cent for those that need a visa.

These are extremely low figures. A 32% approval rate means that more than 2/3 of TRV applications were refused by IRCC Officers.

The IRCC website regularly advises applicants to follow the guides and apply without professional help. That is your right. We would encourage applicants, in contrast, to hire an immigration lawyer to help you with your application. Football fans are already spending $$$ to see their teams play at the World Cup. In our view, it makes sense to hire a professional to make sure you have the best chance to get to the game.

Success: PGWP (Change in DLI)

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IRCC Minister Diab has made it clear that she wants many international students and temporary foreign workers (TFWs) to leave Canada. Based on her most recent report, she has instructed IRCC Officers to heavily scrutinize applications and limit immigration options. The Canadian immigration system has changed radically since 2024. Students and TFWs who rely on policies and procedures pre-2024 are being refused in record numbers. From her report:

the Government is committed to reducing Canada’s temporary population to less than 5% of the total population by the end of 2027.

During these difficult times, it is imperative that applicants find good immigration lawyers to help with their applications. Today, we can share a difficult situation from a client who decided to switch study programs. He started at a DLI and then made the difficult decision to change to another DLI. These situations often lead to refusals when the applicant applies for the PGWP. With our help, our client got a positive result and he is able to work. We will continue to support our client in his path to PR status.

ACADEMIC HISTORY AND PROGRAM TRANSITIONS

Upon his arrival in Canada in December 2023, our client initially enrolled in the Nursing Sciences program at University 1 at the University of Manitoba. However, due to significant personal hardships encountered shortly after his arrival, he was unable to begin the program.

He subsequently enrolled in the Business Management program at Red River College. After completing one semester, he determined that the program did not align with his long-term career goals and voluntarily withdrew on December 7th, 2024.

To pursue a career path more consistent with his interests in healthcare, he enrolled in the Health Care Aide and Health Unit Clerk program, which he successfully completed on January 21, 2026.

To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must complete an eligible program of at least eight months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

LEGAL STRATEGY: PGWP Application

Our office was engaged in December 2025 to assist the client with securing a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after the successful completion of his studies and subsequent program adjustments.

Following a detailed assessment of the file, it was confirmed that the client maintained valid status in Canada, and no restoration application was necessary. Our strategy was therefore focused on preparing and submitting a strong, well-documented PGWP application, clearly addressing all relevant aspects of the client’s academic record and program changes.

The application was submitted within the prescribed 180-day period following completion of studies, in full compliance with Canadian immigration requirements.

BUILDING A STRONG PGWP APPLICATION

A successful PGWP application requires more than simply submitting academic documents. In cases involving program changes, it is essential to establish a clear narrative supported by credible evidence.

In January 2026, our team prepared a comprehensive application package that included a detailed explanation of the client’s circumstances, supporting academic records, enrollment documentation, and legal representations addressing the program and institution changes.

The objective was to demonstrate that the client had continuously pursued his studies in good faith and that every academic decision was supported by legitimate personal and professional considerations. The complete application package was submitted in February 2026.

PGWP APPROVAL

We are pleased to share that the application was approved in May 2026.

IRCC reviewed the additional documentation prepared and submitted by our office and granted our client a one-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Despite the various factors involved in the client’s academic history, the successful outcome highlights the quality of the work and guidance provided throughout the application process.

PROCESSING TIME

  • IRCC Work Permit inside Canada processing time: 201 days
  • PGWP processing time: Several months, according to similar cases
  • Our client’s processing time: Approximately 3 months

This highlights how a well-prepared PGWP application significantly impacts processing efficiency.

APPLICATION TIMELINE

  • December 2025– Consultation
  • January 2025– Client retained CIL to prepare and submit the PGWP application
  • January 2026– Full file review and preparation of supporting documentation
  • February 2026– PGWP application submitted
  • May 2026– PGWP approved

RECOMMENDATIONS

Applications involving academic changes require a clear and strategic presentation of the applicant’s study record. Any variation in program structure or academic progression should be fully documented and explained within the application framework.

The objective is to ensure that the decision-maker can clearly understand the continuity and legitimacy of the studies, supported by consistent documentary evidence.

Strict attention must also be paid to the statutory requirement of filing within 180 days of program completion.

A well-prepared submission minimizes ambiguity and enhances the overall strength of the case.

Many international students worry that changing programs, transferring institutions, or adjusting their career plans may negatively affect their eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. While these situations can add complexity to an application, they do not necessarily prevent approval.

This case illustrates the importance of presenting a clear, credible, and well-documented explanation of an applicant’s academic journey. When educational decisions are properly contextualized and supported by evidence, even a non-linear pathway can lead to a successful PGWP outcome.

Success: PGWP (academic part-time semesters)

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The current IRCC Minister has announced the priority of the Canadian government is to reduce the temporary status population to below 5%. That means that many international students and temporary foreign workers (TFWs) will be forced to leave. The Liberal government has passed laws and regulations to limit access to programs across the board. They have also increased the ineligibility requirements for filing a refugee claim after the passing of Bill C-12. They are refusing applications at an unprecedented rate, even for minor technicalities. Here is a case of a Toronto doctor who wanted to stay in Canada but he’s been refused multiple times. (To be clear, CIL has not had any contact with the doctor and we are not involved in that case in any way.)

The main point for 2026: hire an immigration lawyer. Now, more than ever, it is too risky to file applications to IRCC on your own or with an Immigration Consultant. It is simply too risky.

In the past, immigration lawyers had many more tools to “fix” a messy situation. IRCC has limited those tools and it is increasingly important for Applicants to hire professionals from the start. In this case, we assisted a student who was concerned about their eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) due to a part-time semester early in their university program, along with a complicated immigration history. Our client sought our help at the beginning. He did not try to do it himself. He did not hire an Immigration Consultant. He made a key decision that led to a positive result.

CIL worked closely with this student and, despite these challenges, the application was approved and our client was issued a three-year PGWP – the best possible result!

BACKGROUND

Our client had been studying in Canada for several years and completed a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. However, their situation included several complicating factors:

  • A disrupted academic timeline due to COVID-19 travel restrictions
  • Prior immigration refusals before successfully returning to Canada
  • A delayed arrival for one academic term
  • Withdrawal from courses during that semester due to health and adjustment challenges

As a result, the client was not enrolled full-time during that term – an issue that often raises concerns under PGWP eligibility requirements.

According to IRCC, students are expected to maintain full-time status throughout all academic semesters, with limited exceptions.

HOW THE TEAM AT CIL HELPED

For this file, Michelle took the lead and she worked closely with the client. She recognized early on that this case required a careful and well-structured approach. Thankfully, unlike many other files, we did not have to clean up a mess from a previous representative. Less work on our side means that we charge less money to the client. We are happy to keep our fees low, if that saves us time.

Our team conducted a thorough review of the client’s academic and immigration history and prepared a comprehensive application that addressed the concerns raised by their situation. Michelle had to review many documents and provide feedback.

The application focused on clearly presenting the client’s overall situation and academic history, including the challenges they experienced and their subsequent progress. It also demonstrated the client’s continued commitment to completing their studies in Canada.

By ensuring the submission was complete, consistent, and properly supported, we were able to present a strong application aligned with current immigration requirements.

TIMELINE TO GET WORK PERMIT

  • December 2018 – Initial Study Permit issued
  • 2021–2022 – COVID-19 disruptions
  • September 2022 – Return to Canada; difficult first semester
  • 2023–2025 – Full-time studies resumed and completed successfully
  • May 2025 – Program completed
  • Within 180 days – PGWP application submitted
  • March 2026 – PGWP approved (3-year permit issued)

OUTCOME

The application was approved in March 2026, and the client received a three-year PGWP.

The length of a PGWP can be up to three years for programs of two years or more. This allows the client to move forward with full-time employment in a skilled role and continue building their future in Canada.

TAKEAWAY

Many students worry that a single difficult semester could affect their chances and that is true. We have seen many international students who have been refused by IRCC after part time academic semesters. Here are the key takeaways from this case:

  1. Client contacted CIL for the initial PGPW application, without any previous refusals
  2. Client hired an immigration law firm, rather than an agent or immigration consultant
  3. Client provide significant documentation to explain circumstances to IRCC Officer
  4. Team at CIL spent the time and attention to draft strong legal arguments
  5. Client was able to save $$$$ because he came to CIL without any previous IRCC refusals

Outcomes depend on the overall context of the application and the individual circumstances involved. IRCC may consider unique situations when sufficient information is provided.

Every case is different, and a part-time semester does not automatically prevent eligibility. At Clarke Immigration Law, we focus on developing clear and well-supported applications that are carefully prepared to present each case in the strongest possible light.

 

 

Success: PGWP (3 year) after refusal

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At Clarke Immigration Law (CIL), we love helping international students and graduates reach their immigration goals. We have extensive experience dealing with complex immigration challenges, including Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) refusals, study permit complications, and study gaps during academic programs. These cases often require careful legal assessment and a strong understanding of IRCC decision-making. Many international students try to do these applications by themselves and we are seeing an increase in refusals from IRCC.

Students who receive an IRCC refusal face a stressful situation. Canadian immigration rules allow students one chance to fix their situation. Typically, if the applicant receives a 2nd refusal, they may be ordered to leave Canada immediately.

In this case, we assisted the student who had previously been refused a PGWP due to a lengthy study gap during their university studies in Canada. IRCC may refuse the application if they have a lengthy gap in their studies. The student made the right choice and retained CIL to help with the 2nd application. We worked with the client and put together a strong package for the IRCC Officer. After our involvement and hard work, the client was approved and issued a full three-year PGWP, allowing them to begin full-time work in Canada. We love positive results! We got the absolutely best result for our client. Congratulation!

BACKGROUND & MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES

Our client completed a Bachelor’s degree at a recognized university after several years of study as an international student.

The application history included several important factors:

  • A study gap during one academic semester;
  • A prior PGWP refusal related to a significant gap during the study period;
  • Mental health challenges during the academic period; and,
  • A temporary return to the home country during recovery.

PGWP eligibility is generally assessed based on study history, and gaps or interruptions in studies can impact application outcomes.

Many international students face mental health issues. They are in Canada, often with minimal support, separated from family and relatives. IRCC Officers have limited discretionary powers to review these types of issues.

HOW WE HELPED – STATUTORY DECLARATION

Every client at CIL has support from an experienced team of professionals. In this case, our team supported the client through the preparation and submission of a strong package to IRCC. Our PGWP application also addresses all the concerns by the IRCC Officer who refused the initial PGWP application. It is vitally important to not ignore the previous Officer’s decision. Reversing a decision is very difficult.

IRCC recognizes very levels of evidence. Applicants may include a letter of explanation. These are often given low weight. Lawyers have the power to draft Statutory Declarations, that may be notarized and sworn. Sworn documents are often given high weight and may be very persuasive to the Officer.

In this case, we worked many hours with our client to draft a strong Statutory Declaration. We were able to put together a strong application that addressed all the issues with the client’s academic history, study interruption, and situation.

TIMELINE

  • August 2019 – Study Permit issued
  • 2020–2022 – COVID-19 academic disruptions
  • Fall 2022 – Onset of mental health challenges
  • Winter 2023 – Study gap during university program
  • April 2023 – Medical treatment initiated
  • Fall 2023 – Return to studies in Canada
  • June 2025 – Degree requirements completed, student submitted PGWP without professional help
  • August 2025 – First PGWP application refused; client contacted CIL for assistance and booked a basic consultation
  • August 2025 – Client retained the team at CIL to prepare and submit 2nd PGWP application (urgent)
  • Late August 2025 – The team at CIL spent many hours reviewing the IRCC refusal, the applicant’s documents and drafted a Statutory Declaration on behalf of client.
    • CIL submitted the PGWP application through the IRCC Authorized Representative Portal (ARP) (within 180 days)
  • March 2026 – PGWP approved (three-year open work permit issued).

OUTCOME & RECOMMENDATIONS

As noted above, the PGWP application was approved, and the client was granted a three-year PGWP – the maximum work permit allowed by IRCC.

Obviously, our client was extremely happy with the result. The team at CIL got the best positive result after a difficult situation. This approval allows the client to pursue full-time employment in Canada and continue building their long-term career in the country.

CIL was able to achieve this outcome based on the following 3 main points:

  1. Strong STATUTORY DECLARATION
  2. Address the IRCC Officer’s concerns from the 1st refusal
  3. Submit the application through the IRCC ARP to give the application the best possible chance

TAKEAWAY

Each immigration case is assessed individually based on its own facts and circumstances.

At CIL, we assist clients with a wide range of Canadian immigration matters, including PGWP refusals, study interruptions, and PGWP applications.

A prior refusal does not automatically determine the outcome of a future application. With a properly presented case and full consideration of the individual circumstances, positive results may still be possible. Immigration lawyers offer services that are not available to agents or consultants. Lawyers are granted powers that give clients the best possible chance.

Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances and eligibility under IRCC guidelines.

 

Success: AIP & OWP

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The Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) application is an option of last resort for foreigners in Canada who have strong reasons to stay in Canada and they have no other choice. This is a long and uncertain process. During extended processing times, we recommend that applicants, whenever possible maintain valid status while their applicatin is process to avoid potential removal (eg. deportation). The team at CIL tried to find creative paths for work authorization from IRCC so they may support their families.

This success story highlights how careful planning and timely applications allowed our client to secure and extend work authorization while awaiting the final outcome of her H&C application.

Background

Our client moved to Canada with her son in 2019. After residing in Canada for several years and establishing strong ties to Manitoba, our office was retained to assist this family. We submitted the H&C application in December 2022. As is common with H&C applications, processing times were lengthy, and the client remained in Canada while awaiting a decision.

Approval in Principle and Initial Work Permit

In July 2024, the client received a positive Approval in Principle (AIP) on her H&C application.

Approval in Principle means that IRCC has completed the assessment of the applicant’s eligibility and humanitarian factors and has determined that the application meets the requirements in principle. While permanent residence is not yet finalized at this stage, AIP allows the applicant to remain in Canada lawfully and, in many cases, apply for a work permit while background and admissibility checks continue.

Our office assisted with the work permit application, which was approved in September 2024, granting authorization to work in Canada until April 2026. This approval provided the client with stability, lawful status, and the ability to support herself and her child while remaining in Canada.

Work Permit (22 days)

The goal of the team at CIL is to make sure our clients have the best chance at success.

  • January 13, 2026 – Work permit extension application submitted
  • February 4, 2026 – Work permit approved, extending authorization until February 2028

The extension was approved without interruption to the client’s ability to work in Canada.

This outcome ensured the client’s continued ability to live and work in Canada while awaiting the final decision on her humanitarian application, providing stability for both her and her child.

This case demonstrates that:

  • Approval in Principle under an H&C application can open the door to work authorization
  • Timely work permit and extension applications are critical during long processing periods
  • Maintaining valid status requires careful monitoring of expiry dates and eligibility
  • Strategic legal support can help avoid gaps in status and employment authorization

If you have an ongoing Humanitarian and Compassionate application and are unsure about work permit eligibility or extensions, professional guidance can be essential to protecting your ability to remain and work in Canada.

Success: Visitor Record (Dual Intent) @ USA Border

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Visitor Record @ USA Border

We are pleased to share a recent success story involving a U.S. citizen who was admitted to Canada on September 29, 2025, and issued a Visitor Record under the principle of dual intent.

The client traveled to Manitoba to reunite with her Canadian fiancé, following over three years of living together in the United States. Although the couple had submitted a Spousal Sponsorship application (Regular stream) in June 2025; however, IRCC returned the application due to missing documentation. No applicant wants to see their application returned; however, a “returned” application is much less serious than a “refused” application. In this case, when the application was returned, the couple only saw this as a minor setback that added complexity to their move to Canada. It was also an eye-opening experience that motivated them to find professional help.

The couple contacted our firm and we helped them fix the situation. We worked with the couple and put together a beautiful package for the Officer at the border. She demonstrated that she had a genuine, temporary purpose of travel, along with strong ties to the U.S. and a solid history of compliance with immigration rules. At the same time, using the Dual Intent provisions per Canadian law, she was forthcoming with her future intent to submit a PR application. Our legal arguments, of course, were accepted by the Officer.

This outcome reinforces that even amid heightened scrutiny at the border, dual intent continues to be a successful pathway when clearly presented and properly supported.

Timeline of Key Events

  • 2022 – 2025: Client and her fiancé started cohabiting.
  • June 2025: Submitted an outside-Canada spousal sponsorship application, which was returned.
  • August 2025: Fiancé returned to Manitoba for work.
  • September 4, 2025: Client contacted CIL for help.
  • September 16, 2025: Client retained our service – Team at CIL worked with client and her fiancé (sponsor).
  • September 29, 2025: Client successfully entered Canada and was issued a Visitor Record.

Although client had never been denied entry, the case still required careful attention. Her intention to eventually apply for permanent residence could have been misinterpreted at the border without the right documentation and legal framing.

Key factors that contributed to this success:

  • A clear and credible plan for temporary stay with demonstrated ties to the U.S;
  • A genuine purpose of visit supported by evidence; and,
  • Advance preparation under the dual intent framework, ensuring transparency and compliance.

Her case reminds us that even without prior refusals, a proactive and well-informed immigration strategy is essential when long-term plans include applying for permanent residence. We are proud to have supported this couple in taking the next step toward building a life together in Canada.

Every case is unique. Whether you are preparing for a first-time visit, or reapplying after a refusal, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration law with clarity and confidence.

 

 

 

Success: PGWP (Part time student)

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If you read this space, you know that we have helped 1000s of students in Canada. We help them come to Canada, extend their Study Permits, change DLIs, apply for PGWPs and help them get PR status. Every case is different. Today, we can share a difficult situation. Our client came to us after she graduated from her study program. She had multiple part-time academic semesters on her transcript. She had medical issues. She had gone through a difficult time being separated from her family in Bangladesh.

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Thankfully, after significant work, we were able to help our client get a 3 YEAR PGWP, and we are now helping her gain PR status in Canada. To be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), students must complete an eligible program of at least eight months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), maintain full-time status throughout their studies (with limited exceptions), and apply within 180 days of receiving proof of completion. The permit is valid for up to three years and can be issued only once.

At Clarke Immigration Law, we are dedicated to providing professional and compassionate immigration assistance tailored to each client’s unique situation. Our work goes beyond preparing applications we strive to understand our clients’ personal journeys, identify challenges early, and find the most effective legal pathways available under Canadian immigration law. In 2024, our team handled a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application for an int’l student whose academic history included several semesters of part-time study, presenting certain complexities under IRCC’s eligibility requirements. Through our careful preparation and advocacy, our team successfully helped the client obtain a PGWP. This case reflects our ongoing commitment to diligence, advocacy, and client-focused service in every matter we take on.

Here is a brief timeline of this PGWP application:

  • JUNE 2024 – Consultation;
  • JULY 2024 – Client retained CIL to prepare and submit PGWP application on client’s behalf;
  • JULY 2024 – Review full package, submitted PGWP application;
  • APRIL 2025 – PGWP Approved.

Our team carefully reviewed the client’s academic history and identified that several part-time semesters were the result of medical circumstances. We worked closely with the client to draft a clear and persuasive explanation outlining the reasons for the reduced course load, supported by appropriate documentation. We ensured that this explanation aligned with IRCC’s policies regarding exceptions to full-time study requirements. By presenting a well-structured submission that demonstrated the client’s genuine intent to study full-time and the legitimacy of their medical leave, we strengthened the application and helped the client obtain approval of their Post-Graduation Work Permit.

We have reported on many changes to the PGWP program over the years and it is very important to keep up to date.