Extend your work permit–Temporary workers

If your job is extended or changes, you must apply to extend or change the conditions of your existing work permit before it expires.

Determine how you will apply

There are two ways to apply:

Apply online

To apply online you must have access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents for uploading and have a valid credit card for payment. Apply online. 

Apply on paper

The package includes the application guide and all the forms you need to fill out. Download the application package.

If you are offered a different job in Canada, you must apply for a new work permit.

Do not start your new job without a new work permit.

Determine how you will apply

There are two ways to apply:

Apply online

To apply online you must have access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents for uploading and have a valid credit card for payment. Apply online. 

Apply on paper

The package includes the application guide and all the forms you need to fill out. Download the application package.

A work permit lets you work in Canada temporarily.

If you want to stay in Canada permanently, you must qualify under one of the permanent resident categories. Learn about the permanent resident categories.

If you leave Canada after working in this country and then want to come back here to work, you must have a valid passport or travel document and a valid work permit.

If you are a citizen of a country that requires a temporary resident visa to travel to Canada, you must also have a valid entry visa to return, unless you are returning to Canada from a visit to the United States, or St. Pierre and Miquelon and the period initially authorized for your entry or any extension to it, as a visitor, student or worker has not expired.

Possession of these documents does not guarantee that you will be allowed back into Canada. You must show that you meet all the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations(IRPR) before you will be allowed to re-enter Canada.

For citizens and permanent residents of the United States

If you are a citizen of the United States, you do not need a passport or travel document to enter or return to Canada.

If you are a permanent resident of the United States, you do not need a passport or travel document if you enter or return to Canada from the United States, or St. Pierre and Miquelon.

However, both citizens and permanent residents of the United States must provide documentary proof of citizenship or permanent residence, such as a national identity card or an alien registration card.