Short intro: Still inside Canada and your work permit is expiring—or already expired? This guide explains how to renew from inside Canada, what to do if you missed the deadline (restoration), and how to change employers on an employer-specific permit. Written for first-timers who haven’t done an in-Canada application before.
Quick Check: What’s your situation?
Resultados
#1. Your current status
#2. Permit type
#3. Do you need to change employer or job details?
#4. Biometrics in the last 10 years
#5. Start date urgency
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Table of Contents
Who can renew from inside Canada
- Still valid status: Apply to extend before expiry; most workers can apply online without leaving Canada.
- Employer-specific vs open: Open permits (e.g., PGWP/spousal) usually renew/extend with fewer employer steps; employer-specific may require employer compliance steps.
- IEC: Some IEC categories are not extendable; check if a new invitation/round is required instead of an extension.
Implied status (while you wait)
If you apply before your permit expires, you may be able to keep working under the same conditions until a decision is made (often called “implied status”). Keep proof of your submission and follow your current permit conditions strictly.
Restoration after expiry (overview)
- If your status expired recently, you may be able to apply for restoration from inside Canada and submit a new work permit application together.
- During restoration processing, you generally cannot work until a new permit is issued.
- If you are beyond the restoration window, you may need to leave Canada and apply from abroad, or explore other options. Seek professional advice.
Tip: Keep all previous permits, refusals/approvals, and receipts in one PDF bundle for clarity.
Change of employer on a closed permit
- New employer steps: They may need to complete employer compliance (incl. submitting an offer and paying the compliance fee) or, where applicable, obtain an LMIA.
- Your steps: Apply online to change conditions of your work permit to the new employer, attaching the new offer/LMIA details.
- Do not start the new job until your permit reflecting the new employer is approved, unless a specific public policy allows otherwise.
Application steps (documents & forms)
- Create/Sign in to your IRCC account and select “Extend or change conditions on your work permit”.
- Complete forms generated by the online questionnaire (work permit extension/change).
- Upload documents:
- Passport (all ID pages + entry stamps if requested).
- Current permit + any previous permits/letters.
- Employer documents (offer number/employer compliance receipt or LMIA, if applicable).
- Job letter/contract with duties, wage, hours, location.
- Proof you applied before expiry (for implied status) or restoration if expired.
- Biometrics (if required) and digital photo per specs.
- Pay fees (work permit + biometrics if needed; extra fee for restoration if applicable).
- Biometrics appointment at a VAC if you don’t have valid biometrics.
- Wait for decision. Follow the letter/eVisa instructions and keep a copy of your approval and conditions.
Interlinking you should read next
FAQ
Can I keep working after I apply? If you applied before expiry and your permit allows, you may work under the same conditions while waiting (check your exact situation).
How long is the restoration window? Restoration is time-limited; apply as soon as possible after expiry and attach all supporting proof.
Can I switch to a new employer immediately? Generally wait for the new permit approval that lists the new employer.
Do I need biometrics again? If your biometrics are not valid in the past 10 years, you will likely need to give them again.
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