8 Essential Steps To Take When Your Canadian Work Permit Is Expiring

If you're a foreign worker in Canada, it's important to stay on top of your work permit’s expiration date. Allowing your permit to expire without taking the necessary steps can lead to serious consequences, including losing your job or facing difficulties in extending your stay in Canada. Fortunately, Canada provides clear guidelines and options for extending or renewing your work permit. This blog will walk you through what to do when your Canadian work permit is expiring.

1. Know Your Expiration Date

The first and most important step is to keep track of when your work permit is due to expire. It is your responsibility to know the exact expiration date and start planning ahead. The earlier you start the process, the better your chances are of avoiding any disruptions in your employment.

In most cases, your work permit will include the expiration date on the permit document. If you are unsure, you can always check your immigration status by logging into your account on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

2. Apply For An Extension Or New Permit

If you wish to continue working in Canada after your permit expires, you need to apply for an extension before your current work permit expires. You should ideally apply at least 30 days before the expiration date, but it’s better to apply earlier.

• Application For Extension: If you are extending your current job or continuing with the same employer, the process is usually simpler. You must submit a new application for a work permit extension with IRCC. Make sure all required documents are in order, including a job offer letter and proof of your current employment status.
• Changing Employers Or Job Roles: If you are changing employers, roles, or provinces, you must apply for a new work permit, not just an extension. A new work permit application will require additional documents like a new job offer, labor market impact assessment (LMIA) or proof that the employer does not need an LMIA and proof of your qualifications.

3. Maintain Legal Status While Waiting

If you apply for an extension before your work permit expires, you may continue working while you await a decision. This is known as “implied status.” Implied status allows you to remain in Canada under the same conditions as your previous work permit while your extension is being processed.

However, if you apply after your work permit has expired, you will lose your legal status. In this case, you will need to stop working immediately, and you may not be able to continue your stay until your new permit is approved.

4. Ensure You Meet The Eligibility Criteria

When applying for a work permit extension or renewal, you must ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria. You may be required to provide:

• Proof of your current job offer.
• Evidence of your continued eligibility to work, such as proof of your qualifications.
• A clean criminal record check (if applicable).
• A medical examination report if necessary (especially if you’re in certain high-risk categories).
• An up-to-date resume or CV.
• Other supporting documents such as pay stubs or tax documents, depending on your specific situation.

5. Transition To A Permanent Status (If Applicable)

If your goal is to stay in Canada permanently, your expiring work permit could be a good opportunity to start the process of transitioning to permanent residency. There are several pathways for temporary workers to apply for permanent residence, including:

• Express Entry: If you are a skilled worker, you can apply through the Express Entry program. Your Canadian work experience can give you points that improve your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Many provinces in Canada have programs that target foreign workers with specific skill sets. If you have work experience in a field in demand in a specific province, you may be eligible to apply for the PNP.
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): If you have at least one year of Canadian work experience, you may qualify for permanent residency under the CEC program.
• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): If you’ve completed a program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, you might be eligible for a PGWP, which can also serve as a stepping stone toward permanent residency.

6. Understand The Processing Time

Processing times for work permit extensions or renewals can vary depending on several factors, including the volume of applications and the type of work permit. IRCC typically processes applications within a few weeks to a few months, so be sure to plan ahead.

You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website to get an idea of how long it will take for your application to be processed. Keep in mind that the application process may take longer during peak times, such as during the summer or holiday seasons.

7. Travelling While Your Work Permit Is Expiring

If you plan to travel outside of Canada while your work permit is expiring, be careful. If you leave Canada before your work permit extension is approved, you might not be able to re-enter without the new permit. It's best to avoid international travel if you’re in the process of applying for a new permit or extension unless it is absolutely necessary.

8. Seek Professional Help If Needed

If you are unsure about the process or encounter any issues, it may be beneficial to consult with an immigration lawyer or consultant. These professionals can guide you through the steps, help you avoid common mistakes, and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

Key Insights

Having your Canadian work permit expiring can be stressful, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate the process smoothly. Remember to apply for an extension or new permit ahead of time, meet all the eligibility requirements, and maintain legal status while waiting for a decision. If your long-term goal is to stay in Canada, use this time to explore options for permanent residency.

Read More: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide To LMIA Work Permits In Canada