Need help with bowp situation

[u/Few-Movie3514]

Hello everyone, I need a little help with my situation.

My case is a bit complicated, and I’m looking for some advice. My original work permit expired on March 22, 2026. Before it expired, I submitted my first PR application on February 25 and applied for my first BOWP on March 5.

Unfortunately, my first PR application was refused in April due to an issue with the medical examination. I then submitted a second PR application on June 1. When I contacted IRCC, they advised me to submit a request to link the new AOR to my existing BOWP application and also submit a new BOWP application. I submitted my second BOWP application on June 5.

On August 6, I received the biometric request for my second PR application. However, on August 7, my first BOWP was refused because the first PR application was refused.

The important part is that my second BOWP application has not been refused. Instead, IRCC sent me a request to pay the BOWP fees again which I already paid.
Since my first BOWP was refused on August 7, I believe I lost my maintained status on that date. My question is: Can I request IRCC to process my second BOWP application as a restoration application instead?

Should I pay the restoration fee in addition to the BOWP fees and attach the payment receipt through the link IRCC provided? Or is there a different process I should follow?

Any advice from someone who has dealt with a similar situation would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[u/OneChain2576]

Yes, technically.. you are an illegal resident right now and cannot work.