Work Permit Extension Canada
Applying to extend your work permit before it expires protects your status and, in most cases, lets you keep working while IRCC processes your application. We help you apply on time and correctly.
What is a work permit extension?
A work permit extension is an application to continue working in Canada beyond your current permit's expiry date. If you apply before your permit expires, you may benefit from maintained status and can usually keep working under the same conditions while a decision is pending.
Apply before expiry
Timing is the single most important factor.
Maintained status
You may keep working while the application is processed.
Protects your PR plan
A gap in status can complicate future applications.
Extension options
The right application depends on whether your situation has changed.
Same conditions
Extend the same permit with the same employer.
How to extend your work permit
We help you file early and completely.
Check your expiry date
Confirm the exact date on your permit.
Choose the right application
Extension, new permit, or restoration.
Gather documents
Employment, identity and status documents.
Submit before expiry
File the application in time for maintained status.
Biometrics if required
Complete any biometrics requests.
Decision
Continue working under your new permit.
What you may need
Requirements vary by situation. Below are commonly requested documents.
Identity & status
- Passport
- Current work permit
Employment
- Job offer or employment letter
- LMIA if required
Supporting documents
- Proof of ongoing employment
Medical
- Updated medical exam if required
Who this is for
These profiles commonly apply with our support.
Current permit holders
Workers whose permit is expiring.
Same-employer workers
Continuing in the same role.
New job offers
Workers changing employers.
Approaching expiry
Anyone within months of expiry.
Work-to-PR
Those building experience toward PR.
Families
Workers extending alongside family status.
Work permit extension questions
When should I apply?
Well before your permit expires — we generally recommend starting several months ahead.
Can I keep working while I wait?
If you applied to extend before expiry, maintained status usually lets you keep working under the same conditions.
What if my permit already expired?
You may be able to apply for restoration of status within 90 days.
Can I change employers in an extension?
Changing employers generally requires a new employer-specific work permit.
Will a gap affect my PR?
A gap in status can complicate future applications, so acting early matters.
Extend before it's too late
Get your permit reviewed and your extension filed on time.