If you are intending to extend your Canada work permit, then you should indulge in careful planning. Also, you should be accompanied by all the relevant documents. Since the immigration laws have now become stricter like before, one must always stay a step ahead with all the requisite legal work. If you want to get the Canada work permit extension on your own, it could turn out as a hassle for you. But if you have the right professional by your side, nothing can stop you from getting a successful Canada work permit extension.
How to extend work permit in Canada?
The documentation process is mostly done online via IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). Make sure that you apply for a Canada work permit extension before it expires to avoid further legal complications. Step by step process is as follows:
- Eligibility Criteria: Initial conditions of your work permit should be met. In case of employer-sponsored jobs, proof of a job offer should also be presented along with the rest of your documents.
- Required documents: Includes passport, employer-specific paperwork, existing visa and other documents.
- Apply on IRCC Account: All the required details must be self-verified before submitting them on the IRCC account.
- Application Fee: Pay the required fee in due time.
- Submit the application: After completion of all the aforementioned steps, submit the application before your permit expires.
What documents are required to extend a Canada work permit?
The following are the documents required for Canada work permit extension:
- A passport copy
- Current work permit
- Contract of employment (employer-specific): Required in cases of extending work permit with the same employer, switching employer/jobs, or lost job offer documentation. Not required for post-grad work permits or open work permits.
- Labour Market impact assessment (LMIA): Required for employer-sponsored jobs where the hiring was done due to a lack of suitable local employees.
- Proof of current employment
- Completed application forms
- Application fee receipt
- Digital Photo (if required)
- Medical certificates: Required in cases of jobs in healthcare, teaching, etc., 6+ months of travel history in certain countries.
- Police clearance certificates.
Since requirements are subject to change and may vary depending on various factors, it is important to consult Canada immigration consultants for an easier process.
Can I keep working while my Canada work permit extension is in process?
Yes, if you have successfully followed all the legalities, you can easily continue working in Canada during your permit extension’s process. Here are the legalities that you need to keep in view:
- Extension applied before permit expiration: One must apply for the Canada Work Permit extension before it expires so that there are no more penalties in the extension process later on. Make sure that you submit all the details on the IRCC portal. In case you notice any mistakes made in the application process, submit a web form immediately for rectification and consult Canada Immigration consultants for a safer and smoother process.
- Reside in Canada during the process: One of the non-negotiables is to reside in Canada while your application is under review. If you leave Canada for any reason during this period of time, you are bound to lose your maintained status and have to stop working until a new permit has been issued.
- Follow current work permit conditions: You must abide by your current work permit conditions. Laws vary depending on the work permit. For example, you can keep working for the same employer or change employers if you have an open work permit, but if you have an employer-specific work permit, you must keep working for the same employer until your work permit has been extended. For more information, get in touch with Canada immigration consultants in Mumbai.
Processing time depends on various factors, such as the volume of applications being processed by the immigration authority, the accuracy of the details submitted based on the Canada work visa requirements, and many more. On average, it takes 2-7 months to process applications, provided the conditions are being met.
Conclusion
To extend your Canada work permit, it is always important to ensure all of the applications are done promptly to maintain your legal status in the country. You can be on the safer side by applying before your permit expires and by following certain non-negotiable legalities as mentioned above. Make sure to have all of your legal documents and their physical copies with you before applying to avoid any mistakes. If you’re looking for guidance on the extension of your Canada work permit, feel free to contact us.
FAQs on Canada Work Permit Extension
Q1. When should I apply for a Canada work permit extension?
You should apply before your current work permit expires to maintain your legal status in Canada.
Q2. Can I keep working while my extension is being processed?
Yes, if you apply before expiry, you may continue working under maintained status until a decision is made.
Q3. What documents are required for a work permit extension?
Typically, you need a valid job offer, employer documents, passport copy, and proof of eligibility.
Q4. What happens if my extension is refused?
If refused, you may need to restore your status or leave Canada, depending on your situation.
