Last Updated on March 10, 2025
How to Extend Your Work Permit Under the TFWP
If you are working in Canada under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), you may need to extend your closed work permit to continue employment. The process involves meeting specific eligibility requirements, ensuring your employer secures a valid Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), and submitting a complete application before your current permit expires.
This guide outlines the key steps to extend your work permit under the TFWP, ensuring compliance with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regulations.
Eligibility Criteria for Extending a TFWP Work Permit
A work permit under the TFWP is employer-specific, meaning you can only work for the employer listed on your permit. To qualify for an extension, you must meet one or more of the following conditions:
- Your current job has changed (e.g., salary, job responsibilities).
- You have been offered a new job with your existing employer.
- You have been offered a job by a different employer.
If your work permit is set to expire and you have already applied for an extension, you may be eligible for maintained status. This allows you to continue working under the same conditions of your existing permit until IRCC makes a decision on your application. However, maintained status does not permit you to start a new job or work for a different employer until your new permit is approved.
When Should You Apply for an Extension?
IRCC recommends submitting your application at least 30 days before your work permit expires to avoid disruptions in your employment.
Key Steps to Extend Your TFWP Work Permit
Step 1: Verify Your Passport’s Expiry Date
Before applying for a work permit extension, check your passport’s validity. IRCC does not issue work permits that extend beyond the expiry date of your passport. If your passport is set to expire soon, consider renewing it before submitting your work permit application.
Step 2: Ensure Your Employer Has a Valid LMIA
A work permit under the TFWP always requires a valid Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- Your employer must apply for an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
- The LMIA must have a positive or neutral outcome for your extension to be approved.
- LMIA processing can take several months, so your employer should apply well in advance.
When Will an LMIA Application Be Refused?
Not all LMIA applications are approved. The Canadian government may refuse to process an LMIA request in cases such as:
- Exceeding the cap on low-wage positions in certain industries.
- High unemployment rates (6% or higher) in specific Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs).
- Applications for in-home caregiver positions with live-in requirements.
- If an employer has had an LMIA revoked in the past two years.
- Some low-wage positions in the Montreal economic region (from September 3 to March 3).
Before applying for a work permit extension, ensure your employer has obtained an approved LMIA to avoid delays or rejections.
Applying for a TFWP Work Permit Extension
Once your employer has received the LMIA approval letter, follow these steps to apply for your work permit extension:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
When applying online, IRCC provides a personalized document checklist, but common documents include:
- A valid passport.
- A copy of the approved LMIA from your employer.
- A job offer letter detailing your role, salary, and conditions.
- Proof of current employment in Canada.
- Any additional documents requested by IRCC.
Step 2: Submit Your Online Application
To apply for an extension, create an online IRCC account and complete the following steps:
- Fill out the IMM 5710 application form.
- Upload all supporting documents.
- Pay the work permit processing fee (CAD $155).
- Pay biometric fees (if applicable) (CAD $85).
Note: You can submit a paper application if necessary, but an online application is recommended for faster processing and real-time status updates.
Biometric Requirements for Work Permit Renewal
Biometrics may be required depending on your immigration history. A work permit cannot be issued beyond 10 years from the date biometrics were last provided.
To check if you need biometrics:
- Visit the IRCC website and use the biometrics tool.
- If required, pay the biometric fee with your application.
- Wait for the Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) and book an appointment at an authorized collection center.
Can You Start a New Job Before Receiving a New Work Permit?
Under normal circumstances, TFWs with a closed work permit cannot begin working for a new employer before their new work permit is issued. However, due to a temporary public policy introduced during the COVID-19 period, some TFWs may be allowed to start working for a new employer while waiting for a decision on their application. To qualify, you must:
- Apply for an employer-specific work permit from inside Canada (IMM 5710).
- Submit an IRCC web form inquiry with the code “PPCHANGEWORK2020”.
- Follow additional instructions provided by IRCC.
Note: This policy is subject to change, so verify the latest updates on the IRCC website.
Understanding the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) enables Canadian employers to hire foreign workers when no qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents (PRs) are available for a role.
Key Features of the TFWP Work Permit
- It is a closed work permit, meaning you can only work for the employer listed on the permit.
- The employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before hiring a foreign worker.
- The work permit is issued for a temporary period and must be renewed if you wish to continue working.
If you are a Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) in Canada and need to extend your work permit, following the correct procedures ensures compliance with Canadian immigration laws and prevents employment disruptions.
Need Assistance With Your Work Permit Extension?
Navigating the work permit extension process can be complex, especially with LMIA requirements and changing policies. Ensure a smooth application process by consulting with Growing Globe Immigration (GGI)—your trusted partner in Canadian immigration.
Contact GGI today for expert guidance and personalized assistance with your TFWP work permit extension!
