Work permit renewal
(Open & Employer-Specific)

Apply at least 30 days before your work permit expires. If you apply before the expiry date, you automatically get implied status — meaning you can legally continue working in Canada under the same conditions while your renewal is being processed. We recommend applying even earlier — as soon as 90 days before expiry — to give yourself plenty of buffer.

Implied status is a provision in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations that allows you to remain in Canada and continue working under the same conditions as your expiring permit while IRCC processes your renewal application — provided you applied before your current permit expired. If your permit has already expired without you applying, you do not have implied status. Contact us immediately if this has happened.

An open work permit lets you work for almost any employer in Canada without restrictions — common examples include the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and spousal open work permits. An employer-specific permit ties you to one employer, one location, and one job title. Switching employers on an employer-specific permit requires a new permit. We advise on which applies to you at your free consultation.

If you hold an open work permit, yes — you can work for any eligible employer. If you hold an employer-specific permit, you must continue working for your current employer under implied status until your new permit is issued. Changing employers on an employer-specific permit without a new permit is a violation of your status. Book a consultation and we’ll advise on your specific situation.

No — PGWPs cannot be extended. Once your PGWP expires, you need to apply for a different type of work permit (such as an employer-specific permit with an LMIA) or transition to permanent residency. If your PGWP is expiring, book a consultation now — we’ll map out your options before you run out of time.

For employer-specific renewals, yes — your employer typically needs to provide a new employment offer letter and, in most cases, obtain a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or confirm an LMIA exemption. We guide you and your employer through the requirements clearly so there are no surprises or delays.

IRCC charges CAD $155 per work permit application. This is paid directly to the government and is separate from our service fee. We’ll provide a complete cost breakdown at your free consultation — no surprises.

Possibly — and this is something we always discuss at your consultation. If you have Canadian work experience, you may already be eligible for PR through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry. Renewing your work permit and applying for PR can be done at the same time. We’ll assess your eligibility and advise honestly on the best strategy for your long-term goals.