If you want to renew your work permit or make changes to the conditions of your work permit while in Canada, you’ll need to submit a new application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at least 30 days before your work permit expires.
If the conditions of your work permit change, you must renew the permit to continue working here unless you hold an open work permit — in which case, you are allowed to extend it as long as you are still eligible to work in Canada with an open work permit. You may need to submit additional documentation, such as a change of job letter or a promotion letter. If your application is approved, you’ll receive a new work permit with updated conditions.
You are allowed to live in Canada while IRCC processes your application. However, you are not allowed to start a new job or work for a different employer before you get a new work permit with the new conditions.
How to Apply
To extend or change the conditions of your work permit while in Canada, you will need to create an account with the Canadian government’s online portal. Once you have created an account, you will need to log in and answer some questions. Once you have answered the questions, you will need to upload electronic copies of your documents, pay processing fees for the application, and submit the application.
Through your account, you will be able to check the status of your application. If IRCC approves your application, they will either offer you an extension of your current work permit or a work permit for the new working conditions.
Can I Continue Working with an Expired Work Permit?
If your work permit has expired, you may still be able to work in Canada if you meet certain conditions. For example, if you have applied for a renewal of your work permit and your work permit expires while you are awaiting a decision, you are considered to have maintained your status. You can therefore continue to work with the expired permit until a decision is made on your application, provided you work under the same conditions as your expired permit.
