Work Permit Expired in Canada? How to Restore Your Worker Status Legally

If your Canadian work permit has expired, you may still have options to remain in Canada and restore your legal status. While many people panic at the thought of being out of status, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) provide a clear process to apply for restoration as long as you act quickly and follow the right steps.

In this blog, we’ll explain:

• • What happens when your work permit expires
    
  • Who is eligible to apply for restoration
    
  • The documents and steps involved
    
  • Important timelines and conditions
    
  • What to do while you wait for a decision
    

Who Is This Blog For?

This guide is helpful for:

• • Foreign workers in Canada whose work permits have recently expired
    
  • Temporary residents who lost status due to missed deadlines
    
  • Employers looking to retain international employees
    
  • Individuals unsure of their current status in Canada
    

What Happens When Your Work Permit Expires?

If your work permit expires and you haven’t applied for an extension, you automatically lose your temporary resident status as a worker. This means you are no longer authorized to:

• • Work for any employer
    
  • Access benefits linked to your work permit
    
  • Apply for another permit inside Canada, unless you first restore your status
    

But, this does not mean automatic removal or deportation, especially if you act within the permitted timeframe for restoration.

Can I Stay in Canada After My Work Permit Expires?

Yes, but only if you are eligible to apply for restoration of status and submit your application within 90 days from the date your status expired.

Who Can Apply for Restoration?

You may apply for restoration if you:

• • Held a valid work permit
    
  • Failed to apply for an extension before it expired
    
  • Remained in Canada without engaging in unauthorized work
    
  • Are still within 90 days of losing status
    
  • Meet all the original eligibility requirements for the work permit
    

You cannot apply for restoration at a port of entry or from outside Canada. It must be submitted from within Canada.

Restoration vs Extension: What’s the Difference?

Step-by-Step: How to Restore Your Worker Status

1. Check Your Expiry Date

Review your original work permit or IRCC account to confirm the exact expiry date. The 90-day window starts from the day your permit expired, not when you noticed it.

2. Stop Working Immediately

You must not work once your permit expires. Unauthorized work can make you ineligible for restoration.

3. Gather Supporting Documents

Depending on your situation, you may need:

• • Passport (valid beyond the requested period)
    
  • Job offer letter or employment contract
    
  • Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or offer of employment number (for LMIA-exempt jobs)
    
  • Proof of previous status (e.g., expired work permit copy)
    
  • Explanation letter detailing why you failed to extend on time
    

4. Complete the Application

You must apply for both:

• • Restoration of your temporary resident status
    
  • A new work permit (open or employer-specific)
    

Use the appropriate IRCC online portal or application form, depending on your work category.

5. Pay the Required Fees

• • Restoration fee: $239.75CAD
    
  • Work permit fee: $155 CAD (open) or $100 CAD (if employer-specific)
    

Ensure payment is made through IRCC’s online system and that you include the receipt.

6. Submit Online

Submit the application electronically. You cannot apply at the border or at a visa office abroad while inside Canada.

What Happens After You Apply?

You must stay in Canada while your application is being processed, but you are not allowed to work until a decision is made and a new work permit is issued.

Processing times vary depending on the application type and IRCC workload. Always apply as early as possible.

Can I Travel While My Status Is Being Restored?

If you leave Canada while your application is in process, it will be considered abandoned. Restoration of status must be done from within Canada only.

If you travel, you may need to apply for a new work permit from outside Canada and wait for approval before re-entering.

Common Reasons for Permit Expiry

• • Overlooked expiry date
    
  • Waiting for a job offer before applying to extend
    
  • Delay in receiving a new LMIA or employer number
    
  • Misunderstanding “maintained status” rules
    
  • Assumed restoration was automatic
    

Avoid these by setting reminders, tracking deadlines, and consulting a licensed immigration professional early.

Can I Apply for a Different Permit When Restoring Status?

Yes, in some cases. You may apply for:

• • A new work permit (same or new employer)
    
  • An open work permit (if eligible under another program)
    
  • A study permit (if planning to study and eligible)
    

But, you must still meet the eligibility requirements of the permit you’re requesting.

Final Tips for Restoring Worker Status in Canada

• • Act quickly: Don’t delay past the 90-day mark.
    
  • Do not work while out of status.
    
  • Explain your situation clearly in your application.
    
  • Ensure all documents are accurate and complete.
    
  • Seek help if you’re unsure about eligibility or forms.
    

Need Help Restoring Your Work Status in Canada?

If your work permit has expired or you’re unsure of your current status, Can X Global can help. Our licensed immigration consultants assist with:

• • Restoration and permit applications
    
  • Employer compliance and LMIA support
    
  • Pathways to permanent residency
    
  • Legal advice on temporary status issues
    

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.