If you’re currently working in Canada and your work permit is close to expiring, you’ll need to apply for an extension to continue working legally. Maple News outlines a streamlined process to help foreign workers understand how to stay compliant with Canadian immigration regulations while maintaining their employment status.
To start, it’s crucial to apply for your work permit extension before your current permit expires. If you apply on time, you may be able to remain in Canada and continue working under what’s known as ‘maintained status’ until a decision on your application is made. This applies if you remain in Canada and continue working under the same conditions of your original permit.
Work permit extensions are processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and most applications can be completed online. Before you apply, ensure your passport is valid for the length of time you want your permit extended. You’ll also need an updated job offer and, in many cases, a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or proof of LMIA exemption, depending on your work authorization category.
To apply, gather the required documents, which may include your current work permit, passport scans, proof of continued employment, and payment of application fees. The standard fee for extending a work permit is currently CAD $155. Applications can be submitted electronically via the IRCC online account portal.
If your job is tied to a specific employer, and you are changing jobs or employers, you’ll need a new work permit. However, if you’re simply extending the duration of your current position with the same employer, you may be eligible for a straightforward extension process. This is especially common for workers under international agreements, open work permits, or those tied to employer-specific LMIA workflows.
Once the application is submitted, processing times can vary depending on the type of work permit, applicant’s country of residence, and overall application volumes. In most cases, online applications are processed faster than paper-based ones.
Maintained status is an important right for workers in Canada. If you’ve submitted a complete application for a work permit extension before your current permit expires, you can stay in Canada and keep working under the same conditions until IRCC issues a decision.
Keep in mind that immigration rules and program requirements may change, so it is strongly recommended to check the latest updates from IRCC or consult a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer before applying.
According to Maple News, staying proactive, organized, and informed is the best way to ensure your legal stay and work authorization in Canada are uninterrupted.