Important Update for Foreign Workers in Canada

Canada has implemented a significant change for foreign workers regarding work permits. Under the new policy, individuals who apply for a new work permit before the expiration of their current one can maintain their status and continue working while awaiting a decision.

Understanding Maintained Status

Upon submitting an application for a new work permit, individuals receive a WP-EXT letter that serves as proof of their maintained status. While this letter does not grant permission to work, it indicates to employers and officials that the individual has the right to continue working until a decision is reached on their application. Notably, the duration of this letter has been extended to 1 year from the previous 6 months.

Timing Is Key

It is crucial for workers to ensure that they apply for a new permit before the expiration of their current one. In cases where a subsequent application is submitted while the initial one is still under review, the timing of submissions is paramount. If all applications are lodged after the expiry of the original permit, the individual may lose their protected status.

Continued Work Authorization

The fundamental principle is clear: by submitting a new work permit application before the current one expires, foreign workers in Canada can maintain their employment status until a decision is made.