DIS

Canadian Work Permit Extension

A Canadian work permit extension allows temporary foreign workers to legally stay and continue working in Canada after their current permit expires. Applying on time and following IRCC rules helps you maintain legal status and avoid disruption in employment.

This guide explains everything about work permit extensions, including who can apply, how to apply, timelines, fees, and what happens after submission.

Canadian Work Permit Extension Eligibility

When your current Canadian work permit is about to expire, you can apply for an extension to continue working without interruption. This extension applies only to individuals already in Canada with a valid work permit.

You must submit your application before the expiry date listed on your current permit. If approved, you’ll receive a new document showing your updated validity period and work conditions.

Who Can Extend Their Work Permit?

You may be eligible to extend your Canadian work permit if you meet all of the following conditions:

  • You currently hold a valid work permit.

  • You apply before your permit expires.

  • You continue to meet the original conditions of your work permit (such as job title and employer).

Type of Work Permits

Your eligibility depends on the type of permit you have.

Employer-Specific Work Permit

If you hold an employer-specific (closed) work permit, you can only extend your stay under the same employer and position unless you apply for a new permit with different job details.

Changing Employers or Job Titles

If you want to change employers or switch to a different role with your current employer, you cannot simply extend your current permit. Instead, you must apply for a new employer-specific work permit.

You’ll need to:

  • Obtain a new job offer or LMIA (if required).

  • Include updated employer details in your application.

  • Wait for approval before starting your new position.

In urgent cases, you may request interim authorization to work in your new job while your application is being processed. However, this is only available under specific conditions.

Open Work Permit Extensions: 

Many individuals hold open work permits, including:

  • Spouses of international students or skilled workers.

  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders.

  • Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) holders waiting for permanent residence.

You can extend an open work permit only if you still meet the eligibility conditions. For example, if your spouse’s work permit or study permit expires, you may no longer qualify for an open permit extension.

Be sure to check your program’s specific requirements before applying.

When Should You Apply?

Always apply at least 30 days before your current work permit expires. The expiry date is printed directly on the document.

Applying early protects your legal status in Canada. You avoid gaps in your employment authorization and reduce the risk of being forced to stop working or leave the country.

Maintained Status: 

If you apply before your work permit expires, you may benefit from “maintained status.” This means you can continue working under the same conditions as your current permit while IRCC processes your extension application.

You must remain in Canada to benefit from this status. If you leave the country before IRCC makes a decision, your maintained status will end automatically.

Restoration of Status: 

If your work permit expired and you didn’t apply for an extension on time, you may still have a chance to restore your status.

You must apply within 90 days of losing your status. This is known as applying for restoration of status as a worker.

How to Apply for Restoration

You’ll need to:

  • Explain why you failed to apply on time.

  • Prove you meet all the original conditions of your previous work permit.

  • Submit both the regular extension application and the restoration request together.

The fee for restoration of status is CAD $200, in addition to the work permit fee of CAD $155.

Application Process Work Permit Extension

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

Prepare the following before starting your application:

  • A copy of your current work permit.

  • A valid passport that remains valid throughout your requested extension period.

  • A letter of employment or job offer (if applicable).

  • Proof of continued eligibility (such as marriage certificate or enrollment if you’re on a spousal or post-grad open permit).

If you’re applying under a specific program (e.g., LMIA-based permit), include all supporting documents such as a positive LMIA or offer of employment number.

Step 2: Fill Out the Correct Forms

You’ll need to complete the application form IMM 5710 — “Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker.”

Include details of your employer, job duties, salary, and employment length, especially for employer-specific permits.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

The standard work permit extension fee is CAD $155.

If you’re applying for an open work permit, you’ll need to pay an additional CAD $100. All payments are done online using a credit or debit card.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

The preferred method is online submission through your IRCC account. Upload your completed form and supporting documents, and submit your receipt after paying the fees.

Paper applications are allowed only in special cases, such as for applicants with a disability.

After You Apply:

Once your application is submitted and the fee is paid, IRCC will send a confirmation message.

If you applied before your current work permit expired, you are covered under maintained status. You can continue working legally until a final decision is made.

IRCC may ask for additional information or documents. Check your IRCC account regularly for updates and respond promptly to any requests.

Can You Travel While Waiting?

If you travel outside Canada while your work permit extension is in process, you will lose maintained status.

This means you cannot re-enter Canada and resume work until you receive the new permit. Always check your status and travel risks before making international plans.

If you do travel, ensure that you also hold a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if required for re-entry.

Get Expert Immigration Assistance with Dara Immigration Services (DIS)

Are you looking to Work in Canada?

At Dara Immigration Services (DIS), we understand that navigating the immigration process can be complex. Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, work permit, study permit, or permanent residency, we will guide you every step of the way. From helping you understand the application process to ensuring all necessary documents are in order, we provide the personalized support you need to succeed.

Don’t leave your future to chance—reach out to Dara Immigration Services (DIS) today, and let us help you take the next step toward your Canadian dream.

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