Extending a work permit is an essential step for foreign nationals who wish to continue working legally in Canada beyond the validity of their current authorization. As part of our broader Work pathways, the Work Permit Extension option allows individuals to preserve their legal status and employment continuity while continuing to contribute to Canada’s workforce.
Applicants must submit their extension request before their current work permit expires, ideally at least 30 days in advance of the expiry date. Once the application is filed, individuals may remain in Canada under maintained status (formerly referred to as implied status), allowing them to continue working legally while awaiting a decision—provided they stay in Canada and follow the conditions of their existing permit.
Eligibility Requirements for Work Permit Extensions
Eligibility for extending a Canadian work permit depends on the type of permit currently held. Applicants must continue to meet the conditions of their existing authorization to qualify for an extension.
Foreign nationals holding closed (employer-specific) work permits may be required to obtain a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a new job offer submitted by their employer through the Employer Portal, depending on their situation.
Those working under open work permits, including the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), Spouse Open Work Permit, or Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), must demonstrate that they remain eligible under the specific category through which their permit was issued.
To apply for a work permit extension, applicants must:
Processing Time
Processing times for work permit extensions can vary depending on the type of permit and current IRCC processing volumes. During this period, applicants must continue to comply with all immigration conditions, including permitted work activities, employer restrictions (if applicable), and keeping personal information such as address details up to date.
Importance of Timely Work Permit Extensions
A successful extension allows foreign nationals to maintain continuous legal status and employment in Canada, helping to avoid disruptions that may negatively impact future immigration pathways. This is particularly important for individuals planning to transition to permanent residence through programs such as Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Because work permit extensions are time-sensitive and procedurally complex, early preparation is strongly recommended. Delays, missed deadlines, or incomplete submissions can lead to serious consequences, including loss of status, removal from Canada, or restrictions on future work permit eligibility.
