Work Permit Extension and Expiration

Don’t Let Your Career Hit a Dead End

In the fast-paced world of Canadian immigration, timing is everything. Whether you are thriving in a specialized role or gaining experience on an open work permit, the expiration date on your document is the most critical deadline you face. A lapse in status doesn’t just stop your paycheck—it can jeopardize your entire path to Permanent Residency.

At Skylarks, we specialize in status preservation. Whether you need a seamless extension to keep working without interruption or urgent support to restore your status after a lapse, we provide the regulatory precision needed to keep your Canadian journey on track.

Work Permit Extensions: The Power of Maintained Status

The most effective way to protect your career is to apply for an extension before your current permit expires. If you submit a complete application while your permit is still valid, you automatically transition into Maintained Status (formerly known as Implied Status).

Why Maintained Status is Your Best Asset:

• Continuous Authorization: You are legally authorized to continue working under the same conditions as your original permit until a decision is made.

• SIN Validity: Even if your Social Insurance Number (SIN) technically “expires,” you can continue to work and receive pay legally while on maintained status.

• No Gaps in History: It ensures there is no “break” in your Canadian work experience, which is vital for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and other PR pathways.

Pro Strategy: We recommend filing your extension at least 30 to 90 days before your permit expires to ensure your documentation is flawless and your maintained status is secure.

What If Your Work Permit Has Already Expired?

If you missed your deadline, the situation is urgent, but there is still a window of opportunity. You have 90 days from the date of expiration to apply for Restoration of Status.

Critical Rules for Restoration:

• Immediate Work Stoppage: You must stop working the moment your permit expires. Working during the 90-day restoration window is a serious violation that can lead to a refusal.

• Stay in Canada: You must remain inside Canada while your restoration is being processed.

• Proof of Eligibility: You must still meet all the original requirements of the work permit you are applying for and provide a valid reason for the delay.