If you’re working in Canada on a work permit and it’s about to expire, you’ll need to apply for an extension to continue working legally. Applying for a work permit extension in Canada is a process that requires planning and attention to detail. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about extending your work permit, step by step, and give you tips to make the process easier.
1. Why You Need a Work Permit Extension
A work permit in Canada has an expiration date, meaning that after a certain period, you no longer have the legal right to work in the country. If your work permit is nearing its end and you want to continue working, you must apply for an extension before it expires.
Why it’s important to apply early:
- If your work permit expires before you submit your application for an extension, you will lose your legal right to work.
- You can stay in Canada and keep working while your application is being processed if you apply before the permit expires. This is known as “maintained status.”
2. Types of Work Permits
Before we get into how to apply for an extension, it’s important to know the type of work permit you have:
- Employer-Specific Work Permit: This permit is tied to a specific employer, meaning you can only work for the employer named on your permit.
- Open Work Permit: This permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with a few exceptions.
Understanding what type of permit you have will help you know what documents you need for the extension.
3. When to Apply for an Extension
You should apply for a work permit extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires. This gives Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) enough time to process your application. You can apply for the extension even earlier if you’re ready.
If your permit has already expired: If your work permit has expired and you didn’t apply for an extension in time, you’ll need to stop working right away. However, you can apply to restore your status within 90 days after your permit expired. You will need to pay an additional restoration fee.
4. How to Apply for a Work Permit Extension
The process for applying to extend your work permit is straightforward, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to avoid delays or rejections. Here’s how you can apply:
a. Online Application
The most common way to apply for a work permit extension is online. Here are the steps:
- Create or log into your IRCC account: If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one on the IRCC website. If you already have one, simply log in.
- Complete the application form: Once you’re logged in, you’ll be asked to fill out the correct form for extending your work permit. Make sure you fill it out accurately.
- Gather your documents: You’ll need to upload supporting documents as part of your application. These typically include:
- A copy of your current work permit
- Proof of employment (such as a job offer or contract from your employer)
- Your passport (make sure it’s valid)
- Proof that you meet the conditions of your work permit (if needed)
- Pay the application fee: The fee for extending a work permit is usually $155, but it can vary depending on your situation. You’ll pay this fee online as part of the application process.
- Submit your application: Once you’ve filled out the form, uploaded your documents, and paid the fee, you can submit the application.
b. Paper Application
Although online applications are faster, you can also apply by mail. You can download the application forms from the IRCC website, fill them out, gather your documents, and mail everything to the correct processing office. Make sure you allow extra time if you’re applying by mail, as this method takes longer.
5. Documents You’ll Need
When applying for a work permit extension, you will need several documents to support your application. These typically include:
- A copy of your current work permit: This shows the authorities what type of permit you’re extending.
- Your passport: Make sure your passport is still valid. If your passport expires before your new work permit’s end date, you might only get a permit extension until your passport expires.
- Proof of employment: If you’re on an employer-specific work permit, you will need to provide a job offer or employment contract showing that you are still employed.
- Employer Compliance Information: In some cases, your employer might need to submit information through the Employer Portal and pay a compliance fee before you can extend your work permit.
Make sure that all documents are up to date and accurate to avoid delays in processing.
6. What Happens After You Apply
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive a confirmation that it’s been received. Here’s what to expect afterward:
- Maintained Status: If you applied for your extension before your current work permit expired, you can continue working under the same conditions while waiting for a decision. This is known as “maintained status” (formerly implied status).
- Processing Time: Processing times for work permit extensions vary, but it usually takes several weeks. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
- Approval or Denial: If your extension is approved, you’ll receive your new work permit. If it’s denied, you’ll need to stop working immediately and consider other options, such as applying for a different type of permit or leaving Canada.
7. Fees and Costs
When applying for a work permit extension, you’ll need to pay a fee of $155 CAD. If you’re applying to restore your status after your work permit has expired, there’s an additional restoration fee of $200 CAD. Always check the latest fees on the IRCC website, as they can change.
8. What to Do If Your Work Permit Expires
If your work permit expires and you didn’t apply for an extension on time, you’ll need to stop working right away. However, you can apply to restore your status within 90 days after your permit expires. Here’s what to do:
- Apply for restoration: You’ll need to fill out the same work permit extension form, but also pay the restoration fee.
- Wait for approval: While waiting for the decision on your restoration application, you cannot work. If your restoration is approved, you’ll get a new work permit and can start working again.
9. Other Options for Staying in Canada
If you’re not eligible for a work permit extension or your job is ending soon, there are other ways you can stay in Canada:
- Apply for Permanent Residency: If you’re eligible, you might consider applying for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
- Switch to a Visitor Visa: If you want to stay in Canada but don’t plan to work, you can apply to switch to a visitor visa before your work permit expires.
- Study Permit: If you’re interested in going back to school, you can apply for a study permit to remain in Canada as a student.
Final Thoughts
Extending your work permit in Canada is an important process that ensures you can continue working legally in the country.
By applying early, gathering the correct documents, and following the steps outlined above, you can make the process. Good luck!