Who Can Apply to Extend or Modify a Work Permit?

If you're working in Canada and need to extend or amend the conditions of your work permit, you may be eligible to apply under the following circumstances:

1. You Want to Extend Your Stay as a Worker

If you wish to continue working in Canada beyond the expiration of your current work permit, you must meet the eligibility requirements for the specific type of permit you're applying for.

2. You Need to Modify the Conditions of Your Work Permit

There are several situations where you might need to amend your work permit conditions, including:

• Changing the type of work you’re performing.
• Transitioning to a new employer.
• Updating the location where you’re allowed to work.
• Lifting restrictions placed on you, such as those resulting from a medical examination.

3. You Need to Update Personal Information

If you wish to update your gender details, you can do so by submitting the Request for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier form (IRM 0002). You may also apply to correct any errors made by IRCC on your existing work permit.

Extending Employer-Specific Work Permits

An employer-specific work permit allows you to work for a particular employer under set conditions. If your circumstances change, you may need to extend or modify your work permit. Below are the key situations in which you’ll need to apply for an extension or amendment:

1. Your Job Position Has Been Extended

If your current employment has been extended, meaning your job duration has been lengthened, you will need to apply for an extension of your work permit to continue working legally.

2. Your Job Details Have Changed

If there have been changes in your job role, such as:

• Adjustments in pay rates
• Introduction of new responsibilities
• Other updates to the terms and conditions of your job

You will need to apply to amend your work permit to reflect these updates.

3. You Have a New Job Offer

If you have received a job offer from a new employer, you will need to apply for a new work permit to start working for them.

Important Reminder:

You cannot begin working for a new employer until you have received your updated work permit.

If you find yourself in any of these situations, make sure to apply in advance to ensure your ability to continue working without any legal interruptions.

Extending Open Work Permits: What You Should Know

An open work permit offers flexibility, allowing you to work for any employer in Canada without being restricted to specific conditions. This makes it a popular option for many foreign workers.

Here are some common scenarios where you might consider extending your open work permit:

1. Spousal Open Work Permit

If your sponsoring spouse continues to meet eligibility requirements, such as studying or working in a skilled occupation, you may be eligible to extend your spousal open work permit.

2. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

PGWPs are generally non-renewable. However, there may be opportunities to extend your stay through other immigration pathways, such as Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) or by applying for an employer-specific work permit.

Note:

Open work permits are highly flexible, offering significant freedom to workers in Canada. This makes them an attractive choice for those looking for career opportunities in the country.

If you're in one of these situations or considering extending your open work permit, be sure to explore the available options and stay informed about any changes to immigration policies.

How to Apply for a Work Permit Extension or Amendment

The process for extending or modifying a work permit is mostly done online. Follow this step-by-step guide to complete your application:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

• Make sure all necessary documents are in digital format.
• Use a scanner or camera to upload your documents.
• Have a valid international credit or debit card ready to pay the application fees.

Step 2: Review the IRCC Instruction Guide

Before starting the application, read through the official IRCC instruction guide. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to complete each section of the application form.

Step 3: Complete the Online Questionnaire

Answer a series of questions via the IRCC’s online tool. Based on your answers, you’ll receive a personalized document checklist that’s specific to your application type.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fees

Fees vary depending on the type of work permit you're applying for. Be sure to pay the appropriate fee for your application type.

Step 5: Create or Sign In to Your IRCC Account

You must create or sign in to your IRCC online account to submit your application and pay the fees.

What Happens After You Apply?

After submitting your application, you are allowed to remain in Canada under the same conditions as your current work permit while your application is being processed.

This is referred to as maintained status (formerly known as implied status), or more commonly as "applied status."

If your application is approved, you will receive your updated work permit, which will either include new conditions or an extended validity period.

Need Help?

Navigating the work permit extension process can be complex, but with the right steps, you can greatly improve your chances of success. At Sandhu Immigration, we provide expert guidance to help you through the process and ensure that you submit a complete, accurate application.

If your work permit cannot be extended, we can also explore other immigration options to help you stay in Canada.

Call us today or visit our website to get personalized assistance and expert tips for a smooth application process.