Maple News reports that temporary foreign workers in Canada looking to extend their stay must follow a specific process to renew their work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). A TFWP work permit is granted for a limited time and must be renewed if the worker wishes to continue employment in Canada legally.
Before applying for an extension, individuals should ensure they meet all eligibility requirements. This includes making sure their passport is valid for the duration they wish to extend. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will not grant a new work permit that extends beyond the passport’s expiry date.
One key requirement for extending a TFWP work permit is a valid Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) with a positive or neutral outcome. The LMIA demonstrates that the Canadian employer is authorized to hire foreign workers and that there are no Canadians or permanent residents available for the job.
An extension application must be submitted before the current work permit expires. If the application is submitted on time and the worker remains in Canada, they qualify for what is known as “maintained status.” This allows them to continue working under the same conditions as their original permit while the application is processed. However, they cannot begin a new job or change employment conditions until the new permit is issued.
Workers may also need to update the terms of their permit if their job changes in terms of pay or responsibilities, or if they are switching employers. In such cases, it’s necessary to file for both a permit extension and a modification of conditions.
IRCC recommends applying to renew a work permit at least 30 days before the existing one expires to avoid delays and interruptions in employment. Ensuring that all documents, including the passport and LMIA, are current and valid is essential for a successful extension.
According to Maple News, the process to extend a TFWP work permit includes four main steps: reviewing eligibility, checking one’s passport expiry, securing a valid LMIA, and submitting the renewal application through IRCC.
By preparing early and following the proper procedure, foreign workers can continue contributing to the Canadian workforce without interruption.