Extending a Work Permit While Working in Canada: Full Guide
📝 How To Determine Your Eligibility For Work Permit Extension
Before beginning the process of extending a work permit in Canada, it is important to determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements. Here are some key factors to consider:
Validity of Current Work Permit
Before applying for a work permit extension, it is crucial to ensure that your current work permit has not expired. You can submit an application for an extension up to 90 days before your current permit expires. If your work permit has already expired, you may need to explore other options, such as applying for restoration of status or leaving the country and reapplying for a new work permit.
Employer Compliance
To be eligible for a work permit extension, your employer must continue to comply with the conditions outlined in your initial work permit. This includes providing you with wages and working conditions that meet Canadian standards. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may assess your employer’s compliance during the extension application process.
Job Offer
In order to extend your work permit, you must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. The job offer should be for the same or a similar position as the one specified in your current work permit. Your employer may be required to provide certain documents to support your application, such as a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an offer of employment number issued through the Employer Portal on the IRCC website.
The LMIA is a document that verifies the need for a foreign worker and ensures that hiring you will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market. The offer of employment number is a unique identifier provided by the employer when they submit a job offer through the Employer Portal.
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🗃️ Types of Work Permit Extensions
There are two types of work permit extensions available in Canada:
Employer-Specific Work Permit Extension
This type of extension allows you to continue working for the same employer in the same position. It requires the employer to provide the necessary documents and information to support your application.
Open Work Permit Extension
An open work permit extension allows you to work for any employer in Canada. This type of extension may have specific eligibility requirements, such as being a spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, a refugee claimant, or a temporary resident permit holder.
📩 Application Process for Work Permit Extension
Once you have determined your eligibility and the type of work permit extension you require, it is important to follow the correct application process. Here are the steps involved:
The specific documents required for a work permit extension may vary depending on your circumstances. Generally, you will need a valid job offer letter, proof of compliance with the conditions of your current work permit, and supporting documents such as a LMIA or offer of employment number.
Fill out the appropriate application forms provided by IRCC accurately and legibly. Ensure that all information is up-to-date and that you have signed the forms where required.
Pay the application processing fee and any other applicable fees online using a credit card or other accepted payment methods. The fee amount may vary depending on the type of work permit extension you are applying for.
Submit the completed application package, including all required documents and the payment receipt, either online through the IRCC website or by mail to the appropriate IRCC office. Make sure to retain copies of all documents and the payment receipt for your records.
📅 Processing Time and Status Updates
Understanding the application process and meeting the necessary deadlines are essential for a smooth and successful application.
The processing time for a work permit extension application can vary depending on several factors, including the type of extension and the volume of applications being processed. As of the time of writing, the average processing time for a work permit extension is around four to six weeks. However, it is important to note that processing times are subject to change, and it is advisable to check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date information.
During the processing period, you can check the status of your application online using the unique identification number provided to you upon submission. The IRCC website offers a user-friendly interface to track the progress of your application, ensuring you stay informed throughout the process.
🏘️ Maintaining Status and Temporary Resident Visa
Once you have determined your eligibility and the type of work permit extension you require, it is important to follow the correct application process. Here are the steps involved:
Maintaining Status
While your work permit extension application is being processed, it is crucial to maintain your status as a temporary resident in Canada. If your current work permit expires while you are waiting for the extension, you may be eligible to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) to continue working until a decision is made on your extension application. The BOWP allows you to maintain your employment status and continue working for any employer in Canada while you await a decision.
Temporary Resident Visa
Additionally, if your work permit extension is approved, you may need to apply for a new Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if you plan to travel outside of Canada and re-enter.
It is important to ensure that your TRV or eTA is valid and up-to-date to avoid any travel complications.
🍁 Work Permit Extension in Canada
Extending a work permit while working in Canada is a significant process that requires careful planning and adherence to immigration regulations. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documents, following the application process, and considering important factors, foreign workers can successfully extend their work permits and continue their employment in Canada.