Extension of Canada work permit 2025 – Complete Guide

If you are currently working in Canada with a valid work permit, it’s crucial to understand the process for extending it before it expires. This guide explains who can apply, how to apply, what documents are required, and what to do if your permit has already expired all based on official Canadian immigration procedures.

Need for Extention:

A Canadian work permit is a legal document that authorizes you to work in Canada. Extending your work permit helps you:

• Maintain legal work status in Canada
• Avoid interruptions to your employment
• Continue gaining Canadian work experience (which can support future PR applications)
• Comply with immigration laws and avoid penalties

If your work permit expires and you don’t renew it on time, you must stop working immediately to remain in compliance with Canadian immigration regulations.

Check Also: Move to Canada in 2 Weeks – International Mobility Program

Eligibility:

You may be eligible to extend your work permit if:

• Your current work permit is expiring soon
• You need to change conditions on your permit, such as:
  • Type of job you’re allowed to do
  • Employer name
  • Location of work
• You have completed a medical exam (if previously restricted)
• You still meet the original eligibility requirements for your work permit

Types of Work Permits and Extension Scenarios

Employer-Specific Work Permit

You need to apply for an extension or modification if:

• Your job has been extended
• Your salary or responsibilities have changed
• You’re offered a different job or want to work for a new employer

You cannot begin working for a new employer or in a new role until your updated work permit is approved.

Open Work Permit

You may extend an open work permit if you still meet eligibility criteria (e.g., spouse of a skilled worker or international student).

Requirements:

To apply for an extension, you must meet at least one of the following:

• Hold a valid Canadian work permit and have complied with all conditions
• Be the spouse or partner of someone with a valid study or work permit
• Possess a valid Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
• Be authorized to work without a permit
• Be a refugee, asylum seeker, or protected person
• Qualify under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) (e.g., investor, intra-company transferee, professional)

Temporary Foreign Worker Program Extension:

If you’re working under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), your employer must first apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to support the extension of your work permit.

Steps:

• Employer applies for a positive LMIA.
• You submit a work permit extension application using the new LMIA.
• You may continue working under maintained status while your application is in process (if submitted before expiry).

Important: If your LMIA or employment contract has changed, you’ll need to reflect that in your application.

Open Work Permit Extension:

An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada. If you’re eligible (e.g., a spouse of a skilled worker, postgraduate work permit holder, or under a public policy), you can apply to extend your open work permit online through IRCC.

Eligibility:

• You still meet the original criteria
• You apply before your current permit expires
• You’re in Canada at the time of application

Be sure to maintain your legal status while waiting for the new permit.

Work Permit Validity:

Understanding work permit validity in Canada is essential to plan your extension in time. Work permits are generally valid for:

• Up to 3 years for employer-specific roles (depending on the LMIA)
• 1 to 3 years for open work permits (depending on the category)

Check the expiration date on your permit and apply for renewal at least 30 days before it expires.

How to Apply?

You can apply online through the IRCC portal. Here’s what you need:

• A valid passport
• Proof of continued employment or eligibility
• Updated LMIA (if applicable)
• Completed application form and fee

Tips for Smooth Renewal Process

• Apply early: Submit your application before your permit expires.
• Stay in status: You may have maintained status (formerly implied status) while awaiting a decision.
• Track updates: Use your IRCC account to track processing times and updates.
• Prepare documents: Have all supporting documents ready, including pay stubs and employer letters if needed.

How to Apply for Extension of Canada work permit 2025?

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following:

• Current work permit
• Passport details (number, date of issue and expiry, bio page)
• Job offer letter or employment verification (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate (if applying as a spouse)
• Medical exam proof (if previously required)
• Proof of fee payment

Use a scanner or camera to upload all documents digitally.

Step 2: Apply Online via IRCC Portal

• Visit the official IRCC portal: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/extend.html
• Sign in or create an account
• Complete the required forms (e.g., IMM 5710 for extending a stay as a worker)
• Upload your documents
• Pay your fees
• Submit the application

You’ll receive an acknowledgment of receipt. Keep it for your records.

Extention Cost:

Fee Type	Amount (CAD)
Work Permit Processing Fee	$155
Open Work Permit Holder Fee	$100 (if applicable)

What Happens After You Apply?

• You may be allowed to keep working under “implied status” if you applied before your permit expired and you’re staying in Canada.
• IRCC will review your application and may request additional information.
• You’ll receive a decision letter or your new permit by mail or electronically.

Expired Work Permit:

If your work permit has expired and you didn’t apply for an extension before the expiry date:

• Stop working immediately
• Apply to restore your worker status within 90 days of losing it
• Pay the applicable restoration fee (CAD $200 + regular work permit fee)

If more than 90 days have passed, you may need to leave Canada and reapply from abroad.

More Info

Additional Informtaion:

• Apply at least 30 days before your current permit expires
• Double-check all documents before submitting
• Track your application using your IRCC account
• Consider consulting a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer for complex cases

Conclusion:

Extending your work permit in Canada ensures you remain legally employed and on track for long-term goals like permanent residency. Always follow official procedures and apply on time to avoid disruptions.

If you’re unsure about your situation, it’s smart to speak with an immigration professional or licensed representative.

Frequently Asked Questions: