Your work permit is expiring and you need more time in Canada. The good news: extending a work permit is generally straightforward if you act early. The bad news: if you wait too long, you lose important protections. Here is exactly what to do.
When to Apply for an Extension
Apply at least 30 days before your current work permit expires. Ideally, apply 3–4 months in advance to give yourself a buffer if processing times are long.
If you apply before your permit expires, you automatically benefit from maintained status — meaning you can continue working legally under the same conditions while IRCC processes your extension application, even after your current permit’s expiry date passes.
Who Can Extend a Work Permit
You can apply to extend a work permit if:
- You are currently in Canada with a valid work permit
- Your permit is employer-specific and your employer still wants to employ you (or you have a new employer with a valid LMIA)
- Your permit is an open work permit and you still meet the eligibility criteria
- You have not violated the conditions of your current permit
Step-by-Step: How to Extend Online
- Log in to your IRCC secure account at canada.ca or create one if you do not have one
- Select “Apply to change conditions or extend your stay” from the menu
- Complete the application form (IMM 1295) — include all required information accurately
- Upload supporting documents (see list below)
- Pay the application fee — $255 CAD for most work permit extensions in 2026
- Submit and save your application number
Documents Required for Extension
- Copy of your current work permit
- Copy of your passport (all pages)
- For employer-specific permits: new or updated LMIA from your employer, or your current employment offer letter
- For open work permits: proof you still meet eligibility (e.g., PR application in progress for BOWP, or spouse’s documentation)
- Digital photo meeting IRCC specifications
- Proof of your current status in Canada
Processing Times
Work permit extension processing times in 2026 vary by permit type:
- Employer-specific extensions: 90–150 days
- Open work permit extensions (PGWP, spousal): 60–120 days
- Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP): 60–90 days
Check current processing times at the IRCC processing times tool before applying — they change frequently.
What Is Maintained Status?
If you apply before your permit expires, maintained status allows you to continue working under the exact same conditions as your expiring permit until IRCC makes a decision. You do not get a new physical permit document during this period — your proof is the application confirmation you received when you submitted.
Maintained status ends the moment IRCC makes a decision on your application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until your permit has already expired (you lose maintained status protection)
- Changing jobs during an employer-specific extension without first getting a new work permit
- Submitting an incomplete application — it will be returned and you restart the process
- Not updating your address with IRCC — correspondence gets missed
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I travel outside Canada while my extension is being processed?
A: Risky. If you leave Canada while on maintained status, your maintained status ends. You would need a valid work permit to re-enter Canada. Plan travel carefully and consult an RCIC if you need to travel during processing.
Q: What if my extension is refused?
A: You must stop working and leave Canada or apply for another type of status. You can request reconsideration or apply for a different permit type. Get legal advice immediately.
Q: Can I change employers while extending my permit?
A: Only if you hold an open work permit. With an employer-specific permit, you are tied to the named employer until you get a new permit.
Bottom Line
Apply to extend your work permit at least 30 days before expiry — earlier is always better. Submit a complete application, pay the fee, and keep your application number safe. Maintained status protects you while you wait, but only if you applied before your current permit expired. Do not leave this until the last minute.
