PGWP Expiring? Your Comprehensive 2025 Guide to Staying in Canada
Are you an international student, Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) holder, or temporary foreign worker in Canada watching your work permit expiry date loom closer? You're not alone. Many are facing the same uncertainty as pathways to Permanent Residence (PR) tighten and the temporary public policies of the past, like automatic PGWP extensions, become distant memories.
This isn't just about paperwork; it's about your life, your future, and your dreams in Canada. This comprehensive guide, drawing from expert insights, is designed to be your empathetic companion, helping you understand your situation, explore your options, and make informed decisions when time feels like it's running out.
We'll break down the complexities of expiring work permits, dispel myths, and offer a realistic look at your choices. Let's navigate this together.
Important Note: The information provided here is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Immigration policies are constantly evolving, and every individual's situation is unique. For tailored advice, please consult with a qualified Canadian immigration lawyer or a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). We can help you with this, email us at hello@trueguide.ca
To make this process clearer, let's start with a decision tree to guide you to the most relevant sections of this guide:
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ WORK PERMIT STATUS DECISION TREE │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
│
┌──────────────────┼──────────────────┐
│ │ │
▼ ▼ ▼
┌───────────────────┐ ┌───────────────────┐ ┌───────────────────┐
│ VALID STATUS │ │ EXPIRED < 90 DAYS │ │ EXPIRED > 90 DAYS │
│ Work Permit Still │ │ Grace Period │ │ Out of Status │
│ Valid │ │ │ │ │
└─────────┬─────────┘ └─────────┬─────────┘ └─────────┬─────────┘
│ │ │
▼ ▼ ▼
┌───────────────────┐ ┌───────────────────┐ ┌───────────────────┐
│ PRIMARY OPTIONS │ │ PRIMARY OPTIONS │ │ LIMITED OPTIONS │
│ │ │ │ │ │
│ • PGWP Recapture │ │ • Restoration of │ │ • TRP Application │
│ (if shortened │ │ Status (worker) │ │ (Deep Dive 3) │
│ due to passport)│ │ • Restoration to │ │ • H&C Application │
│ • Other Open Work │ │ Visitor Status │ │ (Deep Dive 4) │
│ Permits: │ │ │ │ • Spousal │
│ - Spousal │ │ │ │ Sponsorship │
│ - BOWP │ │ │ │ (Deep Dive 5) │
│ - Francophone │ │ │ │ • Refugee Claim │
│ • Visitor Status │ │ │ │ (Deep Dive 6) │
│ • Employer- │ │ │ │ • Voluntary │
│ Specific WP │ │ │ │ Departure │
│ │ │ │ │ (Deep Dive 7) │
│ (See Deep Dive 1) │ │ (See Deep Dive 2) │ │ │
└───────────────────┘ └───────────────────┘ └───────────────────┘
│
▼
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ IMPORTANT REMINDERS │
│ │
│ • General PGWP extensions are NOT available │
│ • PGWP recapture is ONLY for passport-related shortenings │
│ • You CANNOT work during restoration period │
│ • TRP, H&C, and Refugee claims have high thresholds │
│ • Voluntary departure preserves future eligibility │
│ • Seek professional advice for your specific situation │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Deep Dive 1: Your Work Permit Hasn't Expired Yet (Or Expires Soon)
If your work permit is still valid, time is of the essence to explore your options.
1.1 PGWP "Recapture" vs. Extension Rumors
Let's be absolutely clear: General PGWP extensions are not available. The 18-month public policies of the past are over. If you hear rumors of new extensions, treat them with extreme skepticism unless officially announced by IRCC.
The Exception: PGWP Recapture
There's one very specific and limited scenario where you might be able to "extend" your PGWP, and it's called recapture of time.
What is Recapture? If your original PGWP was issued for a shorter duration than you were eligible for solely because your passport was expiring sooner, you may be able to apply to "recapture" the remaining time.
Check Your PGWP: Look at the bottom of your physical work permit card. Does it say: "This work permit was issued until the end of passport validity"? If yes, you might be eligible.
Renew Your Passport: You must have a new, valid passport that covers the additional time you are requesting.
Paper Application is MANDATORY: This is crucial. You must apply on paper. Online applications for PGWP recapture are almost always refused.
Clear Cover Letter: Include a properly worded cover letter that explicitly states you are applying for a recapture of time because your original PGWP was limited by passport validity. Explain the situation clearly to the officer.
Apply Before Expiry: Ideally, apply for recapture before your current PGWP expires to maintain valid status (implied status).
No Port of Entry Applications:Do not attempt to apply for PGWP recapture at a Port of Entry. This is not permitted.
Mistakes to Avoid:
Applying Online: Almost guaranteed refusal for recapture applications.
Not Explaining Clearly: Failing to explicitly state "recapture of time" in your application and cover letter.
Expired Passport: Applying with an expired passport or without a new, valid passport covering the requested duration.
If you are not eligible for recapture, or if recapture is not enough time, you need to explore other work permit options.
1.2 Exploring Other Open Work Permit Options
If PGWP recapture isn't an option or doesn't give you enough time, consider if you qualify for other open work permits:
Spousal Open Work Permit:
Spouse of an International Student: Rules have become stricter. Now generally limited to spouses of students in Master's, PhD, or specific professional programs. Spouses of students in other programs may no longer qualify.
Spouse of a Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW): Currently possible if your spouse holds a valid work permit and will work for at least 6 more months. Important Upcoming Change: Canada has announced it will re-introduce skill-level restrictions for spousal open work permits for TFWs.
Available to French-speaking foreign nationals who have a job offer from a Canadian employer outside Quebec.
Requires demonstrating French language ability at NCLC 7 or higher (roughly B2 level).
Must apply from outside Canada unless you already have valid status.
International Experience Canada (IEC):
Available to citizens of specific countries with bilateral youth mobility agreements with Canada.
Age limits apply (generally 18-35, varies by country).
May be an option if you have citizenship in an eligible country and haven't used all your participation slots.
Deep Dive 2: Your Work Permit Expired Recently (Less Than 90 Days)
If your work permit has expired within the last 90 days, you are in what immigration authorities consider a "restoration period." This is a crucial time window where you have limited but important options.
2.1 Understanding Restoration of Status
Restoration of status is a process that allows you to regain your legal status in Canada if you've lost it within the last 90 days. This applies to work permits, study permits, and visitor records.
Key Facts About Restoration:
90-Day Deadline is Absolute: You must apply within 90 days of your status expiry. Even one day beyond this period makes you ineligible for restoration.
Cannot Work During Restoration Processing: This is critical to understand. Once your work permit expires, you must stop working immediately, even if you apply for restoration. Working without authorization is a serious violation that can lead to exclusion from Canada.
Must Meet All Requirements: You must meet all the requirements of the work permit category you're applying to restore to. Simply having had a previous work permit doesn't guarantee approval.
Additional Fee Required: In addition to the regular work permit application fee, you must pay a restoration fee.
2.2 How to Apply for Restoration
When applying for restoration of status, you'll need to submit a complete application with specific documentation:
For Restoration to Worker Status:
Application Form: Use the appropriate work permit application form, with "Restoration" clearly indicated.
Fees: Both the work permit processing fee and the restoration fee.
Explanation Letter: A detailed letter explaining why you failed to maintain your status and why you should be allowed to restore it. Be honest, clear, and provide evidence of any extenuating circumstances.
Supporting Documents: All documents required for the specific work permit category you're applying for (e.g., job offer, LMIA if applicable, proof of qualifications).
Proof of Current Residence in Canada: Documents showing you're currently residing in Canada.
For Restoration to Visitor Status:
If you don't qualify for another work permit but want to remain legally in Canada, you can apply for restoration to visitor status:
Application Form: Use the visitor record application form, with "Restoration" clearly indicated.
Fees: Both the visitor record processing fee and the restoration fee.
Explanation Letter: Explain your oversight and your plans while in Canada as a visitor, including your departure plans.
Proof of Financial Support: Evidence that you can support yourself without working during your stay.
Proof of Ties to Home Country: Documents showing you have reasons to return to your home country.
2.3 Restoration Success Strategies
To maximize your chances of a successful restoration application:
Apply as Soon as Possible: Don't wait until the end of the 90-day period. Apply immediately when you realize your status has lapsed.
Be Transparent and Honest: Clearly explain what led to the loss of status. Immigration officers understand that mistakes happen, but they expect honesty.
Provide Strong Documentation: Include all required documentation for the permit category you're applying for. Incomplete applications risk refusal.
Stop Working Immediately: If you were working after your permit expired, stop immediately and acknowledge this mistake in your explanation letter. Working without authorization is a serious offense.
Consider Professional Help: Given the stakes and the complexity of restoration applications, consider consulting with an immigration professional.
If your work permit expired more than 90 days ago, or if you have other issues affecting your status in Canada, a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) may be an option—though a challenging one.
3.1 What is a Temporary Resident Permit?
A TRP is a discretionary document that allows someone who is otherwise inadmissible to Canada to enter or remain in the country for a temporary period when there is a compelling reason to do so.
Key Characteristics of TRPs:
Temporary Solution: TRPs are issued for limited durations, typically from a few days to three years, depending on the circumstances.
Discretionary: Issuance is entirely at the discretion of immigration officers. There is no right to receive a TRP.
High Threshold: Officers must be convinced that your need to enter or remain in Canada outweighs the health or security risks to Canadian society.
Reason for Inadmissibility Must Be Known: You must explicitly disclose and address the reason(s) for your inadmissibility.
3.2 When to Consider a TRP Application
TRPs are typically considered in cases where:
You've been out of status for more than 90 days (beyond the restoration period).
You have compelling reasons to remain in or return to Canada temporarily.
You have no other viable immigration options in the short term.
3.3 Applying for a TRP
When applying for a TRP, you must:
Acknowledge Your Inadmissibility: Clearly state why you are inadmissible (e.g., out of status, previous immigration violation).
Provide Compelling Justification: Explain in detail why your entry or continued stay in Canada is justified despite your inadmissibility.
Address the Temporary Nature: Show that your need is temporary and that you have plans to eventually leave Canada or legitimize your status through other means.
Include Supporting Evidence: Provide robust documentation supporting your claims.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Not Acknowledging Inadmissibility: Attempting to hide or minimize past immigration violations will almost certainly lead to refusal.
Focusing on Personal Hardship Alone: While your personal situation matters, it must be balanced against Canada's interests.
Insufficient Documentation: TRP applications require strong evidentiary support for all claims made.
Focus on Compelling Justification: Your application must clearly and convincingly demonstrate why your situation warrants the exceptional measure of a TRP. Provide substantial evidence to support your claims.
Low Approval Rates: Be realistic. TRP approvals are not common, and without a truly exceptional and well-documented case, refusal is likely.
Deep Dive 4: Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Applications
For those who have been in Canada for a significant period and have strong ties to the country, but cannot qualify under other immigration programs, Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) applications are a complex but potential pathway to permanent residence.
4.1 What is an H&C Application?
An H&C application is an exceptional immigration pathway that allows individuals who would not normally qualify for permanent residence to be considered based on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.
Key Characteristics of H&C Applications:
Discretionary: Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, with significant officer discretion.
High Threshold for Approval: The standard for approval is quite high, requiring demonstration of exceptional circumstances.
Long Processing Time: H&C applications often take 2-3 years or more to process.
Does Not Protect Against Removal: Filing an H&C application does not pause removal proceedings.
Must Be Filed from Within Canada: H&C applications under Section 25(1) of IRPA must be filed from within Canada.
4.2 H&C Considerations
Immigration officers assess a range of factors when considering H&C applications, including:
Establishment in Canada: The extent to which you have integrated into Canadian society, including employment history, community involvement, and contributions to society.
Ties to Canada: The strength of your personal connections to Canada, including family relationships, friendships, and social networks.
Best Interest of Children Affected: If children (under 18) are directly affected by the decision, their best interests must be taken into account.
Hardship: Unusual, undeserved, or disproportionate hardship that would result from having to leave Canada.
Family Violence Considerations: Special considerations if you have experienced family violence in Canada.
4.3 Strong vs. Weak H&C Applications
Not all situations justify an H&C application. Circumstances that generally make for stronger or weaker cases include:
Potentially Strong H&C Factors:
Substantial Period in Canada: Many years of residence, typically 3+ years minimum.
Financial Self-Sufficiency: History of employment and financial independence without social assistance.
Strong Community Ties: Documented community involvement, volunteering, and integration efforts.
Canadian-Born Children or Children in School: Having children born in Canada or integrated into the Canadian education system.
Compelling Hardship: Documented evidence of serious hardship if forced to leave.
Typically Weak H&C Factors:
Short Period in Canada: Brief stay with limited establishment.
Primarily Economic Motivations: Focusing mainly on better economic opportunities in Canada.
Limited Integration: Minimal evidence of community involvement or language acquisition.
Generalized Country Conditions: Relying primarily on poor general conditions in home country affecting everyone equally.
Intentional Disregard for Immigration Rules: Pattern of deliberate non-compliance with immigration requirements.
Examples of Potentially Successful H&C Scenarios (Highly Fact-Specific and Not Guaranteed):
Sole Parent of Canadian Children with Special Needs: A single parent who is the primary caregiver for Canadian citizen children with significant medical or developmental needs, and who can demonstrate that their removal would have a devastating impact on the children.
Technical Ineligibility with Strong Humanitarian Factors: An applicant who is technically ineligible for a standard immigration program due to a minor administrative oversight or technicality, but otherwise meets most requirements and has very strong humanitarian and compassionate factors in their favor (e.g., significant family ties in Canada, strong community involvement, risk of extreme hardship in home country).
Deep Dive 4 - Humanitarian and Compassionate Applications - Reference Links
3. Kanthasamy v. Canada (Citizenship and Immigration) Supreme Court of Canada Decision Landmark Supreme Court case that broadened the interpretation of H&C factors.
Deep Dive 5: Spousal Sponsorship Option
If you are married to or in a common-law relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, spousal sponsorship may be a viable pathway to permanent residence, even if you've lost status.
5.1 Spousal Sponsorship Basics
Spousal sponsorship allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residence. There are two streams:
Inland Sponsorship: For spouses/partners already living in Canada with the sponsor.
Outland Sponsorship: For spouses/partners living outside Canada or who prefer not to use the inland process.
5.2 Eligibility for Spousal Sponsorship
Key eligibility requirements include:
For the Sponsor:
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Indian Act.
Be at least 18 years old.
Not be subject to a removal order.
Not be detained in a penitentiary, jail, reformatory, or prison.
Not be receiving social assistance for reasons other than disability.
Be able to provide for the basic needs of the sponsored person.
For the Person Being Sponsored:
Be in a genuine relationship with the sponsor (spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner).
Pass medical, security, and background checks.
Not be inadmissible for criminality, security reasons, or medical conditions that pose a danger to public health.
5.3 Overcoming "Out of Status" with Sponsorship
One of the significant advantages of spousal sponsorship is that it can potentially overcome a situation of being out of status in Canada. If your only violation of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act is overstaying your temporary resident status, and you are otherwise admissible, you may still be eligible for sponsorship.
5.4 The Danger of "Marriage of Convenience"
This is a critical warning. Immigration authorities are highly vigilant about "marriages of convenience" – relationships entered into primarily for immigration purposes and not genuine.
Definition of Marriage of Convenience: If any part of your motivation for entering into a marriage or common-law relationship is to gain Canadian immigration status, IRCC may deem it a "marriage of convenience."
Severe Consequences: If IRCC determines that your relationship is not genuine and is a marriage of convenience, your sponsorship application will be refused. Furthermore, you could face serious consequences, including:
A five-year ban on being sponsored.
Removal from Canada.
Misrepresentation findings that could lead to a five-year ban from entering Canada.
5.5 Proving a Genuine Relationship
To prove your relationship is genuine, you'll need to provide substantial evidence, such as:
Joint Financial Documents: Shared bank accounts, joint ownership of property, shared leases, joint loans/credit cards.
History of the Relationship: Messages, emails, photos together over time, and travel documentation showing visits.
Integration with Family and Friends: Photos and testimonials showing integration into each other's social circles and families.
Common Household: Evidence of living together and sharing household responsibilities (if applicable).
Future Plans Together: Evidence of plans made together, such as travel bookings, long-term financial plans, or family planning.
Deep Dive 5 - Spousal Sponsorship Option - Reference Links
1. IRCC Guide: Sponsor Your Spouse, Common-Law Partner, Conjugal Partner or Dependent Child Guide 5289 - Spousal Sponsorship Official guide with detailed instructions for spousal sponsorship applications.
3. Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations - Section 4.1 IRPR Section 4.1 - Bad Faith Relationships The legal definition of bad faith relationships in Canadian immigration law.
Deep Dive 6: Refugee Claims
Refugee claims are one of the most commonly misunderstood and misused pathways in Canadian immigration. This section provides a reality check on refugee claims for those facing work permit expiry.
6.1 What is a Refugee Claim?
A refugee claim is an application for protection made by someone who fears persecution, torture, or risk to their life if they return to their home country.
Definition of a Convention Refugee or Person in Need of Protection:
Under Canadian law, a refugee is narrowly defined as someone who:
Has a well-founded fear of persecution based on:
Race
Religion
Nationality
Political opinion
Membership in a particular social group
OR is at risk of torture or cruel and unusual treatment or punishment if returned to their country
6.2 The Reality of Refugee Claims
It is crucial to understand that refugee claims are not a way to extend your stay in Canada if you don't qualify under other programs. You should only make a refugee claim if you genuinely fear persecution or risk to your life in your home country.
Consequences of Unfounded Claims:
Potential Bar from Canada: Making an unfounded refugee claim can result in a ban from entering Canada for years.
Negative Impact on Future Applications: Failed refugee claims can significantly impact your future immigration applications to Canada.
Misuse of Resources: Unfounded claims divert resources from those with genuine protection needs.
Increased Processing Times: Unfounded claims contribute to backlogs in the refugee determination system.
6.3 Common Misconceptions
Many work permit holders have misconceptions about refugee claims:
Economic Hardship is Not Grounds for a Refugee Claim: General economic hardship or lack of opportunities in your home country does not qualify you as a refugee.
General Violence or Instability is Usually Insufficient: You must demonstrate that you specifically are at risk, not just that your country has general problems with crime or instability.
Not a Way to Extend Your Stay: Refugee claims are not an appropriate way to extend your time in Canada if your work permit is expiring.
6.4 Professional Guidance is Essential
If you genuinely believe you may qualify as a refugee, consult with a qualified immigration lawyer or consultant who specializes in refugee law. They can help you understand:
Whether your circumstances might meet the legal definition of a refugee.
The process and evidence required for a refugee claim.
Alternatives that might be more appropriate for your situation.
Deep Dive 6 - Refugee Claims - Reference Links
1. Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada: Refugee Claims IRB - Refugee Claims Process Official information on the refugee determination process in Canada.
2. IRCC: Find out if you're eligible - Refugee status from inside Canada IRCC - Refugee Status Eligibility Official eligibility criteria for making a refugee claim from within Canada.
3. Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) - Sections 96-97 IRPA Section 96-97 - Definition of Convention Refugee The legal definition of a Convention refugee and person in need of protection in Canadian law.
Deep Dive 7: Voluntary Departure as a Strategic Option
Voluntary departure is often overlooked as a strategic option for those facing work permit expiry. This section explores when and how voluntary departure might be beneficial.
7.1 What is Voluntary Departure?
Voluntary departure is when you choose to leave Canada before your work permit expires or before being removed by immigration authorities.
Key Benefits of Voluntary Departure:
Preserves Future Eligibility: Leaving voluntarily can help preserve your eligibility for future immigration applications to Canada.
Avoids Removal Order: Voluntary departure avoids the issuance of a removal order, which can have serious consequences for future immigration applications.
Flexibility for Future Plans: By leaving voluntarily, you maintain flexibility for future plans, including the possibility of re-applying for a work permit or other immigration programs.
7.2 When to Consider Voluntary Departure
Voluntary departure might be a strategic option if:
You are unable to qualify for another work permit or immigration program.
You have no other viable options to extend your stay in Canada.
You want to avoid the risk of a removal order and its consequences.
7.3 How to Depart Voluntarily
If you decide to depart voluntarily, ensure you follow the correct procedures:
Confirm Your Departure Date: Inform immigration authorities of your intention to leave and confirm your departure date.
Leave Before Your Work Permit Expires: Ensure you depart Canada before your work permit expires to avoid being considered out of status.
Document Your Departure: Keep records of your departure, including flight tickets, border crossing records, or other evidence of your exit from Canada.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Not Informing Immigration Authorities: Failing to notify immigration authorities of your intention to leave can lead to a removal order being issued.
Departing After Work Permit Expiry: Leaving Canada after your work permit has expired can still result in a removal order and impact future eligibility.
Not Documenting Departure: Failing to keep records of your departure can make it difficult to prove you left voluntarily, potentially impacting future immigration applications.
Deep Dive 7 - Voluntary Departure - Reference Links
2. Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) - Section 48 IRPA Section 48 - Voluntary Departure The legal basis for voluntary departure in Canadian immigration law.
Putting It All Together: Your Action Plan
Now that you have explored your options, it's time to create an action plan tailored to your situation.
Step 1: Assess Your Situation
Take an honest look at your current situation and the options available to you.
Step 2: Choose Your Pathway
Select the pathway that best aligns with your goals and eligibility.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Ensure you have all necessary documents to support your application.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Submit your application, following the instructions provided by IRCC or the relevant immigration authority.
Step 5: Monitor Your Application
Track the progress of your application and respond to any requests for additional information.
Step 6: Prepare for the Outcome
Be prepared for the outcome of your application, whether it is approval, refusal, or a request for additional information.
Additional Tips:
Seek Professional Help: Consider consulting with an immigration professional to ensure you are making the best decisions for your situation.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest immigration news and policy changes that may affect your application.
Be Patient: Immigration processes can be lengthy, so be prepared to wait and plan accordingly.
Action Plan - Reference Links
1. IRCC: Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) IRPA - Full Text The legal framework governing Canadian immigration.
2. IRCC: Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) IRPR - Full Text The regulations that support the IRPA.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the expiration of your PGWP can be a challenging and emotional experience. Remember that many others have been in your position and found viable paths forward, whether that meant extending their stay in Canada or strategically planning a temporary departure with intentions to return.
Throughout this guide, we've presented realistic options and avoided creating false hopes. The reality is that not everyone will be able to remain in Canada continuously after their PGWP expires. However, with proper planning, documentation, and sometimes professional assistance, you can make informed decisions that align with your long-term immigration goals.
Key Takeaways
Time is Critical: The sooner you start planning for your PGWP expiry, the more options you'll have available.
Status Matters: Maintaining legal status in Canada should be a priority; it impacts all future immigration applications.
Professional Guidance: The most complex situations often benefit from professional immigration advice.
Think Long-Term: Sometimes the best strategic decision may involve a temporary departure from Canada to position yourself for stronger immigration applications in the future.
Stay Informed: Immigration policies change frequently; what wasn't possible before might become an option in the future.
While this guide provides comprehensive information, immigration circumstances are highly individualized. Your specific background, work experience, education, family situation, and other factors will influence which options are most viable for you.
We wish you the best in your immigration journey and hope this guide has provided clarity during what can be a stressful transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an automatic extension for my PGWP?
No, the era of automatic 18-month PGWP extensions is over. You need to explore other options as outlined in this guide.
What is PGWP recapture and am I eligible?
PGWP recapture is only available if your original PGWP was shortened due to passport validity. Check your work permit card for confirmation that reads "This work permit was issued until the end of passport validity."
What should I do if my PGWP has already expired?
If within 90 days, explore restoration of status. If beyond 90 days, consider other options like TRP, H&C applications, or voluntary departure.
Can I work while applying for restoration of status?
No, you cannot work after your work permit expires, even while your restoration application is being processed. Working without authorization is a serious immigration violation.
Is it better to apply for inland spousal sponsorship or outland?
This depends on your specific circumstances. Inland allows you to remain in Canada with your spouse during processing but doesn't offer an appeal if refused. Outland processing might be faster in some regions but may require separation.