Canada Work Visa Extension 2025: Step-by-Step Process & Requirements

Canada Work Visa Extension 2025: Step-by-Step Process & Requirements

Extending your stay and work authorization in Canada is a crucial step for many temporary foreign workers who wish to continue their professional journey in this country.

Whether you’re a skilled worker, international graduate, or temporary foreign employee, understanding the Canada work visa extension process is essential to maintaining your legal status and uninterrupted employment.

At Task Immigration, we specialize in helping workers and employers navigate the complexities of immigration, visa renewals, and work permit extensions.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Canada work visa extension, including eligibility, types of work permits, application steps, processing times, costs, and common mistakes to avoid.

What Is a Canada Work Visa Extension?

A Canada work visa extension (also called a work permit renewal) allows foreign workers to continue working legally in Canada after their existing work permit expires.

If your current work permit is close to expiration but your employment continues, you must apply to extend your authorization before the expiry date. Applying early ensures that you can continue working under “implied status” while your extension is being processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Why Extending Your Work Visa in Canada Is Important

Work permit extensions are critical because an expired work permit means:

• You can’t legally work in Canada.

• You might lose your immigration status.

• You could face difficulties renewing your permit later or applying for permanent residency.

At Task Immigration, we’ve helped thousands of clients avoid such issues through early application strategies and precise documentation. Applying before your visa expires safeguards your job and residency continuity.

Eligibility for Canada Work Visa Extension

To qualify for a Canada work visa extension, you must meet specific requirements:

1. You must currently hold a valid work permit.

2. Your employment contract must still be active — or you should have a new offer from an eligible employer.

3. You must not have violated any immigration or visa conditions.

4. You must apply before your current permit expires.

5. Your passport must be valid beyond the extension period you’re requesting.

If your work permit has already expired, Task Immigration can still help you apply for restoration of status within 90 days, although additional fees and steps will apply.

Types of Work Permits in Canada

There are two major types of work permits relevant to the Canada work visa extension process:

1. Employer-Specific Work Permit

This type of permit is tied to a particular employer and includes details like:

• Employer’s name

• Job location

• Duration of employment

If you’re extending your work permit under this category, you usually need a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an updated offer of employment from your employer through the Employer Portal.

2. Open Work Permit

An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada (except those listed as ineligible). It’s commonly issued to:

• Spouses of skilled workers or international students

• Recent international graduates with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

• Refugee claimants and some other categories

Open work permit holders can easily apply for a Canada work visa extension without needing a new job offer.

When to Apply for a Work Permit Extension

You should apply for your Canada work visa extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires. However, Task Immigration recommends applying 60–90 days earlier to avoid any risk of status loss due to processing delays.

Once your current permit expires, if you’ve already submitted your extension, you’ll continue to have implied status, meaning you can keep working under the same conditions until IRCC makes a decision.

How to Apply for a Canada Work Visa Extension

The application process for a Canada work visa extension involves several detailed steps. Task Immigration provides full support for each stage to ensure your submission is error-free and complete.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need:

• A valid passport (covering your full extension period)

• Digital photo (as per IRCC standards)

• Current work permit

• Job offer letter or LMIA (for employer-specific permits)

• Employment proof (recent pay slips, job letter, etc.)

• Proof of financial support (if applicable)

Step 2: Complete the Application

Use the online portal at IRCC’s official website. You’ll fill out Form IMM5710 — Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay, or Remain in Canada as a Worker.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

The application fees typically include:

• Work permit fee: CAD 155

• Open work permit holder fee (if applicable): CAD 100

• Restoration of status (if expired): CAD 200

Step 4: Submit Your Application Online

Upload all your documents and submit your application before your current permit expires.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

IRCC will process your application and send you an approval letter once approved. If your application is refused, Task Immigration can help you appeal or reapply with improved documentation.

Processing Time for Canada Work Visa Extension

Processing times vary depending on workload, category, and location. On average:

• Online applications: 60 to 120 days

• Paper applications: 90 to 150 days

You can check the current estimated processing times on IRCC’s website. Task Immigration continuously tracks updates to provide clients with real-time information.

Cost of Canada Work Visa Extension

Note: Legal service fees through Task Immigration vary based on case complexity.

Documents You May Need

Different applicants may require specific supporting documents:

• Copy of your current work permit

• Passport copies (with entry stamps and bio page)

• Employer compliance number (if applicable)

• LMIA confirmation number

• Employment verification letter

• Pay stubs for recent months

• Marriage certificate (for spousal applicants)

• Proof of current address in Canada

At Task Immigration, our consultants review every document for accuracy before submission, ensuring a higher chance of approval.

What Happens After Submitting the Application?

Once you’ve applied for a Canada work visa extension, you can:

• Continue working under implied status until a decision is made.

• Check your application status online using your IRCC account.

• Wait for the decision email (approval or refusal).

If approved, you’ll receive your new work permit via mail. If refused, Task Immigration can evaluate your refusal letter and assist with a reapplication or status restoration.

Common Reasons for Work Visa Extension Refusal

Even minor errors can lead to delays or refusals. Here are some common mistakes applicants make:

1. Submitting an incomplete form or missing documents.

2. Applying after the expiry date.

3. Employer’s LMIA or offer of employment not matching job details.

4. Inconsistent employment history.

5. Lack of proof of continued employment or financial stability.

Task Immigration helps clients avoid these pitfalls by carefully reviewing every step of the process.

Can I Extend My Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

Unfortunately, PGWPs are not extendable. However, there are alternative options for staying in Canada, including:

• Applying for permanent residency (PR) through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

• Applying for a new work permit through an employer with an LMIA.

• Exploring bridging open work permits (BOWP) if you’ve already applied for PR.

Our experts at Task Immigration help international graduates explore every possible pathway to remain in Canada legally.

Pros & Cons of Canada Work Visa Extension

Restoring Your Status After Expiry

If your work permit has expired, you can apply for restoration of status within 90 days. During this period:

• You cannot work until your status is restored.

• You must pay restoration and new work permit fees.

• You must remain in Canada.

Task Immigration provides fast-tracked restoration services to help you regain legal work status quickly.

Switching Employers During Work Visa Extension

If you’re on an employer-specific permit and wish to change jobs, you must:

1. Obtain a new job offer.

2. Get a new LMIA or employer compliance offer.

3. Apply for a new work permit instead of an extension.

Our firm ensures that job transitions are handled smoothly, without interrupting your legal employment.

How Canada Work Visa Extensions Impact Permanent Residency

Extending your work visa not only allows you to keep working but can also support your PR eligibility. Continued work experience in Canada counts toward PR programs such as:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

At Task Immigration, we create long-term immigration strategies for clients to transition from temporary to permanent status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I apply for a Canada work visa extension after my permit expires?

Yes, within 90 days. You’ll need to apply for restoration of status along with your extension.

2. How early should I apply for an extension?

You should apply at least 30 days before expiry, but we recommend applying 60–90 days in advance.

3. Can I continue working while my application is processing?

Yes, under implied status, if you applied before your permit expired.

4. Do I need a new LMIA to extend my work permit?

Yes, if your work permit is employer-specific, your employer may need a new LMIA unless exempt.

5. What happens if my extension is refused?

You must stop working immediately and consult professionals like Task Immigration to restore your status or reapply.

6. How long does it take to process an extension?

Processing usually takes 2 to 4 months, depending on the application type.

7. Can I include my family members?

Yes, your spouse and dependents can apply for extensions of their own permits alongside yours.

8. Is there a biometrics requirement?

Yes, if you haven’t given biometrics in the past 10 years.

9. Can I travel while waiting for my extension?

You can, but re-entering Canada may require proof of implied status or a valid visa.

10. Can Task Immigration help with urgent extensions?

Absolutely. We offer priority processing support and ensure your documents meet IRCC’s standards for quick approval.