Renewing and extending a work permit are the same process in Canada — IRCC does not use the word “renewal” officially, but the application is identical. Here is the complete guide to making sure your work authorization stays continuous.
The Golden Rule: Apply Early
Apply to renew your work permit at least 30 days before it expires. Most experienced immigration practitioners recommend applying 60–90 days before expiry — especially given that processing times in 2026 can stretch well past 90 days for some permit types.
Applying early costs nothing extra and protects you from accidentally working without authorization.
Maintained Status: Your Safety Net
When you submit your renewal application before your permit expires, you gain maintained status. Under maintained status, you can:
- Continue working for the same employer under the same conditions
- Remain in Canada legally
- Wait for IRCC to process your application even if your permit’s printed expiry date passes
Maintained status does NOT allow you to change employers (if you have a closed permit) or change the conditions of your work. It is a continuation, not an upgrade.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline
If your work permit has expired and you did not apply to renew it before expiry:
- You are out of status — you cannot legally work
- You have 90 days from expiry to apply to restore your status
- After 90 days, restoration is no longer available and you must leave Canada
Restoration requires a separate application (Form IMM 5708) plus the standard renewal fee plus a restoration fee.
The Renewal Process
The process is online through your IRCC account:
- Log into your IRCC secure account at canada.ca
- Select “Extend my stay as a worker”
- Complete Form IMM 1295 accurately
- Gather and upload your supporting documents
- Pay the $255 CAD application fee
- Submit and record your application number
Documents You Need
For an employer-specific permit renewal:
- Current work permit copy
- Passport copies
- Valid LMIA or LMIA-exempt job offer letter
- Employment letter from your employer confirming continued employment
- Proof of current status
For an open work permit renewal (e.g., PGWP):
- Note that PGWP cannot be renewed — it is issued once and for a fixed period. Once it expires, you need a different type of permit.
- For spousal open work permits: updated documentation from the primary permit holder
PGWP Specifically: No Renewal Available
One important distinction: the Post-Graduation Work Permit cannot be renewed. It is a one-time permit issued for a fixed duration. When a PGWP expires, you need to transition to either a different work permit type (employer-specific, spousal, etc.) or apply for permanent residency before it runs out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long will my renewed work permit be valid?
A: It depends on your permit type and circumstances. Employer-specific permits are typically issued for the duration of your LMIA or job offer. Open permits vary. There is no fixed rule — IRCC determines the validity period.
Q: Can I renew from inside Canada?
A: Yes — in-Canada renewals are the standard process. You do not need to leave Canada to renew most work permits.
Q: My employer has changed since my last permit was issued. Can I still renew?
A: If you have an employer-specific permit and changed employers without getting a new permit, you have been working without authorization. Address this immediately with professional advice before applying to renew.
Bottom Line
Renew your work permit well before expiry — 60–90 days is a safe window. Apply online, pay the fee, keep your confirmation, and rely on maintained status to protect your work authorization while you wait. Missing the renewal window is one of the most avoidable and consequential mistakes in Canadian immigration.
