Extend or change the conditions of your work permit from inside Canada

Steps

Screenshots of IRCC’s official pages and forms, captured November 3, 2026. The live page may look different.

1. Check that this application fits your situation

   Use this application, from inside Canada, to extend your work permit or to change its conditions: type of work, employer or work location. The same application also removes medical job restrictions or changes the gender identifier on your permit.

   

   • Employer-specific permit holders must apply if the job is extended, the job changes (for example new pay or responsibilities), they're offered a different job, or they want a new employer.
   • Open work permit holders can extend as long as they're still eligible for an open permit, and they don't need a new permit just to change employers.
   • To remove medical job restrictions, get the medical exam first, then apply to change conditions.
   • To change your gender identifier, use this application and include form IRM 0002. If IRCC made an error on your permit, ask for an amendment instead.
   • PGWP holders: a PGWP can generally be extended only if your passport expired before your full eligibility period, and only on paper. That isn't covered here.
   • International Experience Canada (IEC) participants have separate extension instructions.

   Official source for step 1

2. Apply before your permit expires, ideally 30+ days ahead

   IRCC recommends applying at least 30 calendar days before your current permit expires, and allowing for in-Canada processing times. Above all, apply before it expires, so that you keep your status.

   

   • Your status usually expires on the work permit's expiry date. If your permit has a later “Must leave Canada by” date, your status lasts until that date.
   • An online application must be submitted before midnight UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) on the expiry day. Check the difference between your local time and UTC.
   • Paper applications are date-stamped on the day the case processing centre receives them. If IRCC receives one after your permit expired, it counts back 7 days and uses that as the received date.
   • If your status has already expired, you need restoration (within 90 days), not an extension (see Out of scope).

   Official source for step 2

3. Make sure your employer has done their part first

   For an employer-specific permit, your employer must have a new LMIA, or, for LMIA-exempt jobs, must submit a new offer of employment and pay the employer compliance fee. Open work permit holders skip this step.

   

   • LMIA jobs: IRCC says you should usually wait until your employer has the positive LMIA decision letter before applying.
   • Exception: you may apply before the LMIA or CAQ decision if your permit expires in two weeks or less and your employer has already submitted a complete LMIA or CAQ application. IRCC won't decide your application until the LMIA or CAQ arrives.
   • LMIA-exempt jobs: your employer submits a new offer of employment in the Employer Portal and gives you the new offer of employment number. Each number works for only one application.
   • Quebec jobs may also need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).

   Official source for step 3

4. Check your passport and biometrics expiry dates

   Your work permit can't be extended past your passport's expiry date or past the validity of your biometrics.

   

   • If your passport expires soon, renew it before you apply so you can ask for the full period you need.
   • Biometrics last 10 years. If yours expire soon, IRCC says you may want to give them again so the new permit isn't cut short. Pay the biometrics fee when you apply and wait for your instruction letter.
   • IRCC has special passport instructions for some Venezuelan passport holders.

   Official source for step 4

5. Gather your documents

   You need the IMM 5710 form, a passport copy and a photo, plus employment documents for an employer-specific permit. The personalized checklist in your account is the final list.

   

   • For employer-specific permits, IRCC always asks for a letter from your current employer, reference letters, proof of past work experience, proof you meet the job's requirements, and a résumé.
   • LMIA jobs: a copy of the positive LMIA and LMIA file number, an employment contract and a job offer letter (plus a CAQ for Quebec, if required). LMIA-exempt jobs: an employment contract and the offer of employment number.
   • Guide 5553 asks for copies of the passport pages showing the stamp from your most recent entry to Canada.
   • If you are applying before the LMIA or CAQ decision: proof of a valid job offer, and either the LMIA receipt confirmation number or a copy of the application your employer sent.
   • If you had an immigration medical exam in the last 5 years, include its IME number (unique medical identifier). You may be exempt from a new exam.

   Official source for step 5

6. Fill out IMM 5710

   Fill out the PDF on a computer and validate it. The form-by-form field list is below. The key choices are in question 3 at the top and in “Details of intended work in Canada”.

   

   • At the top, tick “Apply for a work permit with the same employer” or “Apply for a work permit for the first time or with a new employer”.
   • Make your dates match your new LMIA or offer of employment, and stay within your passport's validity.
   • Applying before the LMIA or CAQ decision: IRCC currently tells you to type CPTS2026 in the Job title field. In “Details of intended work in Canada”, also give the date the LMIA or CAQ request was sent, the office it went to, the employer's name and the confirmation number if available.
   • Removing medical restrictions: choose “Other” in question 1a and explain in 1b.
   • Priority processing for some occupations: enter only the NOC number in the Job title box. That box is box 4 in “Details of intended work in Canada”.

   Official source for step 6

7. Apply online in your IRCC secure account

   In most cases you must apply online. Sign in or create an account, answer the questionnaire, then upload your forms and documents to the personalized checklist.

   

   • Applying online gets you a WP-EXT letter as proof that you can keep working (except PGWP applicants). Paper applicants don't get it.
   • Paper is allowed only if a disability prevents you from applying online or the online application has a problem. Guide 5553 also allows paper when you apply for a temporary resident permit together with a study or work permit.
   • IRCC says some categories may get a wrong result in the online questionnaire and gives special instructions for them. Ask your employer if you aren't sure whether this applies to you.

   Official source for step 7

8. Pay the fees

   You pay the work permit processing fee and, if it applies, the open work permit fee and the biometrics fee. Check current amounts on IRCC's fee list.

   

   • Some applicants are exempt from some or all fees.
   • Once processing has started, IRCC keeps the processing fee even if your application is refused or you weren't eligible.
   • Fees change; this guide doesn't state amounts.

   Official source for step 8

9. Submit a complete application, before expiry

   Make sure everything on the checklist is uploaded. IRCC treats an application rejected as incomplete as never submitted, which means no maintained status.

   

   • Missing documents or information can lead to refusal.
   • If an incomplete application is rejected and your permit has expired in the meantime, you would have to apply for restoration.

   Official source for step 9

10. Give biometrics again, if needed

    If your biometrics are expiring or incomplete, or a permanent residence application of yours was refused, you may want or need to give biometrics again. IRCC sends an instruction letter after you pay.

    

    • Book your appointment as soon as you get the biometric instruction letter, to avoid delays.
    • Use the instruction letter issued for this application, not an old one.
    • IRCC's tool tells you whether you need biometrics at all.

    Official source for step 10

11. While you wait: maintained status and what you may do

    If you applied before your permit expired, you can stay in Canada and keep working under your current permit's conditions until IRCC decides. This is maintained status, and you must stay in Canada to keep it.

    

    • Employer-specific permit: keep the same employer, job and work location. Open permit holders can usually change employers, jobs or locations unless their permit says otherwise.
    • If you applied for a new employer or job, keep working for your original employer until the decision, unless IRCC authorizes you to start the new job (next step).
    • Proof for your employer: online applicants get a WP-EXT letter in their account. The letter shows an expiry date 365 days after IRCC received your application, but you can keep working past that date until the decision. Paper applicants can show a copy of the application, proof of fee payment, or postal or courier tracking.
    • You can't get the WP-EXT letter if you applied after your permit expired or if this is your first work permit in Canada.
    • While on maintained status you usually can't renew provincial or territorial documents such as your driver's licence or health card, so renew them before your permit expires. You also can't apply for or update your SIN until the new permit arrives, but you may keep working with an expired SIN.
    • Temporary resident permit (TRP) applicants don't get maintained status.

    Official source for step 11

12. Changing employers? You can ask to start the new job while you wait

    If you hold an employer-specific permit and have applied for a new one with a different employer or job, you can ask IRCC through its web form for authorization to start the new job before the decision.

    

    • Eligible: people who applied in Canada for a new employer-specific permit and currently hold an employer-specific permit (or are allowed to work without one, except business visitors and some Global Skills Strategy short-term workers).
    • IEC participants must first check whether they're allowed to change employers.
    • In the web form, choose the Other category. Paste IRCC's template message, which includes the priority code PPCHANGEWORK2020, and fill in the bracketed details.
    • Wait for IRCC's email. It isn't a work permit, but it tells you whether you may start. IRCC says replies take about 10 to 15 days, and longer for paper applications.
    • If you lost the job tied to your permit, stop working until the new permit is approved or IRCC emails you a work authorization.

    Official source for step 12

13. If you applied without your LMIA or CAQ, send it when it arrives

    If you applied before the employer's LMIA or CAQ decision, submit the document through IRCC's web form as soon as you get it. IRCC can't finalize your application without it.

    

    • There is no separate fee or form for this. Send the document through the IRCC web form.

    Official source for step 13

14. If you need to travel outside Canada while waiting

    You can leave and come back, but if your application is still being processed you may be let back in only as a visitor, and you can't work until it's approved.

    

    • If the extension was approved while you were away, you may re-enter as a worker and start working right away.
    • A work permit isn't a travel document. You still need a valid visitor visa or eTA (whichever applies to you) to return.
    • IRCC has an urgent-processing request process if you must travel urgently.
    • In some cases you may be able to apply for a new work permit at the port of entry when you return.

    Official source for step 14

15. Decision

    If approved, you get an extended permit, or a permit with new conditions. If refused, your maintained status ends and you must stop working; restoration may be possible within 90 days.

    

    • Approval: IRCC sends a note to your online account, and you can start working under the new conditions as soon as you receive it. The permit is mailed to your Canadian address; IRCC says to expect it within about 6 weeks of the decision letter.
    • Refusal: IRCC lists reasons such as not meeting eligibility, inadmissibility, an incomplete application, a job offer that isn't genuine, not complying with conditions of a previous permit, or staying in Canada beyond your authorized stay.
    • If you lose your status, you must stop working. You may apply to restore it within 90 days if you meet the conditions; otherwise you must leave Canada.
    • After approval: renew your SIN with the new permit and check that the conditions printed on it are right.

    Official source for step 15

Documents checklist

Gather these before you apply. Your personalized checklist from IRCC is the final word on what your application needs.

• Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker (IMM 5710)Each person applying to extend or change conditionsPDF form, filled out on a computer and uploaded online. Instructions: the IMM 5710 page and Guide 5553. Official source for Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker (IMM 5710)
• a photocopy of your passport or travel documentAll applicantsGuide 5553 also asks for the pages showing your most recent Canadian entry stamp. The permit can't go past the passport's expiry date. Official source for a photocopy of your passport or travel document
• 1 photo meeting the visa photo specificationsAll applicantsFollow IRCC's photo specifications. Official source for 1 photo meeting the visa photo specifications
• a letter from your current employer, a reference letter from past employers, proof of past work experience, proof that you meet the requirements of the job, a résuméEmployer-specific applicantsIRCC always asks for these for employer-specific permits. If your job needs no licence or certification, upload a page saying “Not applicable”. Official source for a letter from your current employer, a reference letter from past employers, proof of past work experience, proof that you meet the requirements of the job, a résumé
• a copy of the positive LMIA and LMIA file number; an employment contract; a job offer letterEmployer-specific applicants whose job needs an LMIA (provided by the employer)Usually you need a new LMIA to renew beyond the old LMIA's period (Guide 5487). Official source for a copy of the positive LMIA and LMIA file number; an employment contract; a job offer letter
• an employment contract (also known as the employment agreement) and an offer of employment numberLMIA-exempt employer-specific applicants (provided by the employer)The number is the letter A followed by 7 digits, and it can be used once. Your employer must submit a new offer for the extension. Official source for an employment contract (also known as the employment agreement) and an offer of employment number
• a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) (if you plan to work a paid job in Quebec for more than 30 days)LMIA-required jobs in QuebecGuide 5553 asks for a copy of the attestation of issuance of the CAQ. Official source for a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) (if you plan to work a paid job in Quebec for more than 30 days)
• proof that you have a valid job offer + a copy of the LMIA receipt confirmation number (online) or of the application sent to Service Canada / MIFI (paper)Only if you apply before the LMIA or CAQ decision (permit expires in 2 weeks or less)Also type CPTS2026 in the Job title field and give the LMIA or CAQ request details in “Details of intended work in Canada”. Official source for proof that you have a valid job offer + a copy of the LMIA receipt confirmation number (online) or of the application sent to Service Canada / MIFI (paper)
• proof of a medical exam / previous IME numberIf your job or travel history requires a medical exam, or to remove medical conditionsIRCC recommends doing the exam close to when you submit. A previous IME number from the last 5 years may exempt you from a new one. Official source for proof of a medical exam / previous IME number
• Request for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier form [IRM 0002]Only if changing the gender identifier on your permitNo supporting documents are needed, per the IMM 5710 instructions. Official source for Request for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier form [IRM 0002]
• a marriage certificate / Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409)Married or common-law applicantsGuide 5553 says IMM 5409 must be notarized to be valid. Official source for a marriage certificate / Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409)
• Family Information Form - Visitors, Students and Workers (IMM 5707)If listed on your checklistOnly if your checklist asks for it. Official source for Family Information Form - Visitors, Students and Workers (IMM 5707)
• certified translations (if your documents aren’t in English or French)Anyone with documents in other languagesUnclear copies and untranslated documents are both listed as causes of delay. Official source for certified translations (if your documents aren’t in English or French)
• Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) / Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM 5475)Only if applicableOptional forms. Official source for Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) / Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM 5475)

What to write where

Field by field, in the order the form asks, with each one outlined on the form. Labels are as IRCC prints or documents them; the examples are made up.

IMM 5710 – Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker (form version IMM 5710 (09-2023) E)

PDF form · Official form and instructions

Completing the form

123

1 UCI

What they’re asking: Your client ID (UCI), printed on your study or work permit, if you have one.

Your Unique Client Identifier (Client ID), if you have one. It is printed on your study or work permit.

Official source for the field “UCI”

2 I want service in

What they’re asking: Which language IRCC should use with you: English or French.

Choose English or French as the language IRCC uses with you.

e.g. English

Official source for the field “I want service in”

3 I am applying for one or more of the following:

What they’re asking: Are you staying with the same employer, or is your employer or job changing?

The PDF has four tick boxes: “Restore my status as a worker”, “Apply for a work permit with the same employer”, “Apply for a work permit for the first time or with a new employer”, and “Get a new temporary resident permit (for inadmissible applicants only)”. Tick “Apply for a work permit with the same employer” to extend with the same employer, or “Apply for a work permit for the first time or with a new employer” if your employer or job is changing. Open work permit holders pick the option that best matches. “Restore my status as a worker” is only for people whose status has already expired.

Watch out: Choosing an extension when your status has already expired. IRCC keeps the fee and asks for the restoration fee instead.

Official source for the field “I am applying for one or more of the following:”

PERSONAL DETAILS

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1 Family name (as shown on your passport or travel document)

What they’re asking: Your last name, exactly as your passport shows it.

Your surname exactly as printed on your passport, even if it is misspelled there. No initials. If your passport has no family name, put all your names here and leave the given-name field empty.

e.g. SMITH

Official source for the field “Family name (as shown on your passport or travel document)”

2 Given name(s) (as shown on your passport or travel document)

What they’re asking: All your given names, exactly as your passport shows them.

All your given names exactly as on your passport. If your passport has no given name, leave this blank.

e.g. Alex

Watch out: Writing “*”, “Not applicable” or “NA” in an empty given-name field. IRCC says not to.

Official source for the field “Given name(s) (as shown on your passport or travel document)”

3 a) Have you ever used any other name (e.g. Nickname, maiden name, alias, etc.) ?

What they’re asking: Have you ever gone by another name, like a maiden name or nickname?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, give the other family and given names you have used, such as a birth, maiden or married name or a nickname.

Official source for the field “a) Have you ever used any other name (e.g. Nickname, maiden name, alias, etc.) ?”

4 Sex

What they’re asking: Your gender, chosen from the list: female, male or another gender.

Pick from the list. The instruction page lists F-Female, M-Male or X-Another gender. If you pick a different identifier from the one on your current or past Canadian document, also include the Request for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier form.

Official source for the field “Sex”

5 Date of birth

What they’re asking: When you were born, by year, month and day.

Year, month and day. If any part is unknown, IRCC says to use an asterisk (*) for that part.

Official source for the field “Date of birth”

6 Place of birth

What they’re asking: The city or town and country where you were born.

Your city or town of birth, and your country or territory of birth from the list.

e.g. Lyon

Official source for the field “Place of birth”

7 Citizenship

What they’re asking: Which country you're a citizen of; if several, the one whose passport you're using.

Your country of citizenship. If you have more than one, choose the one that issued the passport you are using for this application.

Official source for the field “Citizenship”

8 Current country or territory of residence:

What they’re asking: Where you live now, your status there, and its start and end dates.

A table with Country or Territory, Status, Other, From and To. If you are out of status, IRCC says to select “Other”, type the restoration wording, and leave the dates blank. Choose your current status in Canada (usually “Worker”) and give its From and To dates.

e.g. Worker

Official source for the field “Current country or territory of residence:”

9 a) Previous countries or territories of residence: During the past five years have you lived in any country or territory other than your country of citizenship or your current country or territory of residence (indicated above) for more than six months?

What they’re asking: In the past five years, have you lived over six months in another country?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, list each country or territory, your status there, and the From and To dates.

Official source for the field “a) Previous countries or territories of residence: During the past five years have you lived in any country or territory other than your country of citizenship or your current country or territory of residence (indicated above) for more than six months?”

10 a) Your current marital status

What they’re asking: Your relationship status right now, such as single, married or common-law.

Pick from the list (for example Single, Married, Common-Law). The instruction page defines each status.

Watch out: Leaving out the IMM 5409 (common-law) or a copy of the marriage certificate (married). The instructions require them.

Official source for the field “a) Your current marital status”

11 b) (If you are married or in a common-law relationship) Provide the date on which you were married or entered into the common-law relationship

What they’re asking: When you married, or when your current common-law relationship began.

The date you married, or the date you started your current common-law relationship.

Official source for the field “b) (If you are married or in a common-law relationship) Provide the date on which you were married or entered into the common-law relationship”

12 c) Provide the name of your current Spouse/Common-law partner

What they’re asking: The full name of your current spouse or common-law partner.

Your spouse's or common-law partner's family name and given name(s).

e.g. Family name SMITH, given name Jordan

Official source for the field “c) Provide the name of your current Spouse/Common-law partner”

13 d) If you are married or in a common-law relationship, is your spouse or common-law partner a Canadian citizen or permanent resident?

What they’re asking: Is your spouse or partner a Canadian citizen or permanent resident?

Tick Yes or No.

Official source for the field “d) If you are married or in a common-law relationship, is your spouse or common-law partner a Canadian citizen or permanent resident?”

14 a) Have you previously been married or in a common-law relationship?

What they’re asking: Have you been married or in a common-law relationship before?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, give your previous spouse's or partner's names, the type of relationship, the From and To dates, and their date of birth.

Official source for the field “a) Have you previously been married or in a common-law relationship?”

LANGUAGE(S)

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1 a) Native language/Mother Tongue

What they’re asking: The language you learned at home as a child and still understand.

The language you learned at home as a child and still understand. If yours is not listed, choose “other”.

Official source for the field “a) Native language/Mother Tongue”

2 b) Are you able to communicate in English and/or French?

What they’re asking: Can you communicate in English, French, both or neither?

Choose English, French, Both or Neither.

Official source for the field “b) Are you able to communicate in English and/or French?”

3 c) In which language are you most at ease?

What they’re asking: If your native language isn't English or French, which one do you use most?

If your native language is not English or French, the one you use most: English, French or Neither.

Official source for the field “c) In which language are you most at ease?”

4 d) Have you taken a test from a designated testing agency to assess your proficiency in English or French?

What they’re asking: Have you taken an English or French test from a designated testing agency?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, the form asks for a copy of your results for speaking, listening, reading and writing.

Official source for the field “d) Have you taken a test from a designated testing agency to assess your proficiency in English or French?”

PASSPORT

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1 Passport number

What they’re asking: Your passport number, exactly as it's printed.

Your passport or travel document number exactly as printed, with no spaces.

Official source for the field “Passport number”

2 Country or territory of issue

What they’re asking: Which country or territory issued your passport.

The country or territory that issued your passport, from the list.

Official source for the field “Country or territory of issue”

3 Issue date

What they’re asking: The date your passport was issued.

The date your passport was issued.

Official source for the field “Issue date”

4 Expiry date

What they’re asking: The date your passport expires.

The date your passport expires. Your work permit can't be valid past this date, so check it before you apply. IRCC has special instructions for some Venezuelan passports.

Watch out: Applying with a passport that expires before the end date you need. The permit is cut off at the passport's expiry date.

Official source for the field “Expiry date”

5 For this trip, will you use a passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes your personal identification number?

What they’re asking: Are you using a Taiwan-issued passport that includes your personal ID number?

Tick Yes or No.

Official source for the field “For this trip, will you use a passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes your personal identification number?”

6 For this trip, will you use a National Israeli passport?

What they’re asking: Are you using a National Israeli passport?

Tick Yes or No.

Official source for the field “For this trip, will you use a National Israeli passport?”

NATIONAL IDENTITY DOCUMENT

1

1 Do you have a national identity document?

What they’re asking: Do you have a national ID document, and if so, its details?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, fill in the Document number, Country or Territory of issue, Issue date and Expiry date exactly as on the document.

Official source for the field “Do you have a national identity document?”

US PR CARD

1

1 Are you a lawful Permanent Resident of the United States with a valid alien registration card (green card)?

What they’re asking: Are you a US permanent resident with a valid green card?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, give the Document number and Expiry date of your green card.

Official source for the field “Are you a lawful Permanent Resident of the United States with a valid alien registration card (green card)?”

CONTACT INFORMATION

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1 Current mailing address

What they’re asking: Where IRCC can send you paper mail.

Your mailing address: P.O. box, Apt/Unit, Street no., Street name, City/Town, Country or Territory, Province and Postal code. Give a street number if you have no P.O. box. Spell out words like Street or Avenue; only directions (NW, SE) may be abbreviated. IRCC mails paper correspondence here unless you give an email address. If you use a representative, their details go here and on the IMM 5476.

e.g. 123 Sample Street, Toronto

Official source for the field “Current mailing address”

2 Same as mailing address?

What they’re asking: Do you live at the same address where you get your mail?

Tick Yes if you live at your mailing address. If No, give your residential address in the fields that follow.

Official source for the field “Same as mailing address?”

3 Telephone no.

What they’re asking: Your main phone number, including country and area codes.

Tick Canada/US or Other, choose the phone type, and enter the full number with country and area codes. Put any extension under “Ext.”.

Official source for the field “Telephone no.”

4 Alternate Telephone no.

What they’re asking: A second phone number, if you'd like to give one.

Optional second number, in the same format.

Official source for the field “Alternate Telephone no.”

5 Fax no.

What they’re asking: Your fax number, only if you have one.

Only if you have one.

Official source for the field “Fax no.”

6 E-mail address

What they’re asking: An email address you check often, where IRCC can write to you.

An address you check often. IRCC emails come from @cic.gc.ca, @canada.ca or @international.gc.ca, so add those to your safe senders and check your junk folder. Giving an email address authorizes IRCC to send correspondence there.

e.g. alex.smith@example.com

Official source for the field “E-mail address”

COMING INTO CANADA

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1 Date and place of your original entry to Canada

What they’re asking: When and where you first entered Canada.

The date and place you first entered Canada. If you don't remember exactly, give your best estimate.

Official source for the field “Date and place of your original entry to Canada”

2 a) The original purpose for coming to Canada

What they’re asking: Why you first came to Canada.

Choose Business, Tourism, Study, Work, Other or Family Visit. If you choose Other, explain in “b) Other”.

e.g. Work

Official source for the field “a) The original purpose for coming to Canada”

3 Date and place of your most recent entry to Canada (if not the same as original entry)

What they’re asking: When and where you last entered Canada, if different from your first entry.

Your most recent entry to Canada, if it differs from your first.

Official source for the field “Date and place of your most recent entry to Canada (if not the same as original entry)”

4 Document Number

What they’re asking: The number on your most recent visitor record or permit.

The number of your most recent visitor record, study permit, work permit or temporary resident permit.

Official source for the field “Document Number”

DETAILS OF INTENDED WORK IN CANADA

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1 a) What type of work permit are you applying for?

What they’re asking: Which kind of work permit you're applying for.

Pick from the list. The instruction page lists Co-op Work Permit; Exemption from Labour Market Impact Assessment; Labour Market Impact Assessment Stream; Live-in Caregiver Program; Open Work Permit; Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers; Other; Post-Graduation Work Permit; Start-up Business Class. Same employer or new employer: choose “Labour Market Impact Assessment Stream” or “Exemption from Labour Market Impact Assessment” (ask your employer if unsure). Open work permit holders choose “Open Work Permit”. Use “Other” only to remove medical job conditions, or to work for a foreign mission, international organization, foreign government, or bridge or tunnel authority; explain in “b) Other”.

e.g. Labour Market Impact Assessment Stream

Watch out: Selecting “Other” when your situation isn't on IRCC's list for it.

Official source for the field “a) What type of work permit are you applying for?”

2 b) Other

What they’re asking: If you chose Other in 1a, which allowed situation applies to you?

Only if you chose “Other” in 1a. Say which permitted situation applies, for example that you want medical job conditions removed (not authorized to work in child care, primary or secondary school teaching, or health services).

Official source for the field “b) Other”

3 a) Name of Employer (If you are employed by a foreign employer who has been awarded a contract to provide services to a Canadian entity, please identify the foreign employer here)

What they’re asking: Your employer's name, as shown on your LMIA or offer of employment.

The employer named in your LMIA or offer of employment. The form says to attach the original offer of employment.

e.g. Sample Foods Ltd.

Official source for the field “a) Name of Employer (If you are employed by a foreign employer who has been awarded a contract to provide services to a Canadian entity, please identify the foreign employer here)”

4 b) Complete Address of Employer (Canadian or Foreign):

What they’re asking: Your employer's full address, whether in Canada or abroad.

The employer's full address, in Canada or abroad.

e.g. 456 Example Avenue, Toronto

Official source for the field “b) Complete Address of Employer (Canadian or Foreign):”

5 Intended location of employment in Canada?

What they’re asking: Where in Canada you'll be working.

Province, City/Town and Address where you will work.

e.g. Ontario, Toronto, 456 Example Avenue

Official source for the field “Intended location of employment in Canada?”

6 Job title

What they’re asking: Your job title, as written in your job offer.

Your job title as in the job offer. IRCC has two special uses for this box: (1) for priority processing in certain occupations, enter only the NOC number from your offer or LMIA; (2) if you are extending before your employer's LMIA or CAQ decision arrives, IRCC currently tells you to type the code CPTS2026 here. Use a code only if IRCC's pages say it applies to you.

e.g. Line Cook

Official source for the field “Job title”

7 Brief description of duties

What they’re asking: A short summary of your role and responsibilities.

A short description of your role and responsibilities.

e.g. Prepare and cook menu items

Official source for the field “Brief description of duties”

8 Duration of expected employment

What they’re asking: The start and end dates of the work you're applying for.

From and To dates (YYYY-MM-DD). They should match your LMIA or offer of employment, or the length allowed for an open permit. A permit can't run past your passport's expiry date.

e.g. From 2027-01-04 to 2028-01-03

Official source for the field “Duration of expected employment”

9 Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) No. or Offer of Employment (LMIA Exempt) No.

What they’re asking: Your LMIA number, or the offer of employment number your employer gave you.

Either the 7-digit LMIA number, or the offer of employment number from your employer (the letter A followed by 7 digits). Not needed for co-op or post-graduation work permits.

e.g. A1234567

Watch out: Reusing an offer of employment number from an earlier application. IRCC says each number can be used only once.

Official source for the field “Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) No. or Offer of Employment (LMIA Exempt) No.”

10 If you have been issued a Quebec Acceptance Certifcate (CAQ), provide the:

What they’re asking: Your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) number and expiry date, if you have one.

Only for CAQ holders (generally jobs in Quebec): the Certificate Number and an Expiry Date. CAQs no longer show a written expiry date, so IRCC says to work it out as your intended start date plus the CAQ's duration. (The PDF misspells “Certificate” in this label.)

Official source for the field “If you have been issued a Quebec Acceptance Certifcate (CAQ), provide the:”

11 Have you been issued a certificate under the Provincial Nominee program?

What they’re asking: Has a province or territory nominated you under its Provincial Nominee Program?

Tick Yes if a province or territory has nominated you under its Provincial Nominee Program; otherwise No.

Official source for the field “Have you been issued a certificate under the Provincial Nominee program?”

EDUCATION

1

1 Have you had any post secondary education (including university, college or apprenticeship training)?

What they’re asking: Have you studied after high school, such as university, college or an apprenticeship?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, describe only your highest level: From/To (year and month), Field and level of study, School/Facility name, City/Town, Country or Territory, Province/State.

Official source for the field “Have you had any post secondary education (including university, college or apprenticeship training)?”

EMPLOYMENT

1

2

1 Current Activity/Occupation

What they’re asking: Your current job, or what you're doing now if you don't work.

Your current job, or what you are doing now if you don't work (for example a student or retired), with From dates, Company/Employer/Facility name, City/Town, Country or Territory and Province/State.

e.g. Line Cook

Official source for the field “Current Activity/Occupation”

2 Previous Activity/Occupation

What they’re asking: Your earlier jobs or activities over the past 10 years.

Earlier jobs or activities covering the past 10 years (or the 10 years before you retired). If you run out of space, print another page of this section and include it.

Official source for the field “Previous Activity/Occupation”

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

123456

789

1 a) Within the past two years, have you or a family member ever had tuberculosis of the lungs or been in close contact with a person with tuberculosis?

What they’re asking: Past two years: have you or family had lung tuberculosis, or close contact with it?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, explain in 1c and name the family member if relevant.

Watch out: Leaving any background question blank. IRCC treats the application as incomplete.

Official source for the field “a) Within the past two years, have you or a family member ever had tuberculosis of the lungs or been in close contact with a person with tuberculosis?”

2 b) Do you have any physical or mental disorder that would require social and/or health services, other than medication, during a stay in Canada?

What they’re asking: Do you have a physical or mental condition needing social or health services, beyond medication?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, give details in 1c.

Official source for the field “b) Do you have any physical or mental disorder that would require social and/or health services, other than medication, during a stay in Canada?”

3 a) Have you ever remained beyond the validity of your status, attended school without authorization or worked without authorization in Canada?

What they’re asking: Have you ever overstayed, or studied or worked without permission, in Canada?

Tick Yes or No. Any Yes in question 2 needs an explanation in 2d.

Official source for the field “a) Have you ever remained beyond the validity of your status, attended school without authorization or worked without authorization in Canada?”

4 b) Have you ever been refused a visa or permit, denied entry or ordered to leave Canada or any other country or territory?

What they’re asking: Has any country ever refused your visa or permit, denied entry or ordered you out?

Tick Yes or No. This covers refusals by any country, not just Canada.

Official source for the field “b) Have you ever been refused a visa or permit, denied entry or ordered to leave Canada or any other country or territory?”

5 c) Have you previously applied to enter or remain in Canada?

What they’re asking: Have you applied to come to or stay in Canada before?

Tick Yes or No. Earlier visa, study permit or work permit applications all count.

Official source for the field “c) Have you previously applied to enter or remain in Canada?”

6 a) Have you ever committed, been arrested for or been charged with or convicted of any criminal offence in any country or territory?

What they’re asking: Have you ever committed a crime, or been arrested, charged or convicted, anywhere?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, give details in 3b.

Official source for the field “a) Have you ever committed, been arrested for or been charged with or convicted of any criminal offence in any country or territory?”

7 a) Did you serve in any military, militia, or civil defence unit or serve in a security organization or police force (including non obligatory national service, reserve or volunteer units)?

What they’re asking: Have you ever served in any military, militia, police, civil defence or security unit?

Tick Yes or No. If Yes, give your dates of service and the countries or territories where you served.

Official source for the field “a) Did you serve in any military, militia, or civil defence unit or serve in a security organization or police force (including non obligatory national service, reserve or volunteer units)?”

8 Are you, or have you ever been a member or associated with any political party, or other group or organization which has engaged in or advocated violence as a means to achieving a political or religious objective, or which has been associated with criminal activity at any time?

What they’re asking: Have you belonged to, or been associated with, any group linked to violence or crime?

Tick Yes or No.

Official source for the field “Are you, or have you ever been a member or associated with any political party, or other group or organization which has engaged in or advocated violence as a means to achieving a political or religious objective, or which has been associated with criminal activity at any time?”

9 Have you ever witnessed or participated in the ill treatment of prisoners or civilians, looting or desecration of religious buildings?

What they’re asking: Have you seen or joined in mistreating prisoners or civilians, looting, or desecrating religious buildings?

Tick Yes or No.

Official source for the field “Have you ever witnessed or participated in the ill treatment of prisoners or civilians, looting or desecration of religious buildings?”

SIGNATURE

123

1 Signature of Applicant or Parent/Legal Guardian’s for a person under 18 years of age.

What they’re asking: Your signature, declaring your answers are full and true.

Sign, or a parent or legal guardian signs for an applicant under 18. By signing you declare that your answers are full and true. The form says a paper application must be signed and dated before mailing.

Watch out: Sending a paper application unsigned. IRCC returns unsigned applications.

Official source for the field “Signature of Applicant or Parent/Legal Guardian’s for a person under 18 years of age.”

2 Date: YYYY-MM-DD

What they’re asking: The date you're signing the form.

The date you sign.

e.g. 2026-11-15

Official source for the field “Date: YYYY-MM-DD”

3 Do you consent to be contacted by IRCC, or an organization at IRCC’s request, in the future? (Y/N)

What they’re asking: Can IRCC, or an organization it asks, contact you later for research?

Optional research consent (Yes or No). IRCC says it won't use this to make decisions about you.

Official source for the field “Do you consent to be contacted by IRCC, or an organization at IRCC’s request, in the future? (Y/N)”

Mistakes IRCC warns about

• Applying after your permit has expired. You lose maintained status and need restoration, and paying for an extension instead of restoration isn't refunded. Official source for this mistake
• Submitting an incomplete application. It's treated as never submitted, so there's no maintained status. Official source for this mistake
• Missing the online deadline because of time zones. The cut-off is midnight UTC on the expiry day. Official source for this mistake
• Starting a new job or working for a new employer before the new permit (or IRCC's work authorization email) arrives. Official source for this mistake
• Leaving Canada while the application is in process and expecting to keep working on return. Official source for this mistake
• Applying before the LMIA decision when your permit expires in more than two weeks. Official source for this mistake
• Leaving out the PPCHANGEWORK2020 code when asking for authorization to change employers. Official source for this mistake
• Letting your driver's licence or health card lapse. They usually can't be renewed while you're on maintained status. Official source for this mistake
• Requesting an end date past your passport's expiry date. Official source for this mistake
• Expecting maintained status as a temporary resident permit (TRP) applicant. Official source for this mistake
• Working without authorization after your status ends, which IRCC calls illegal. Official source for this mistake

After you apply

1. Download the WP-EXT letter from your account (online applicants) to show your employer you can keep working (see 'While you wait').
2. Stay in Canada to keep maintained status. Keep working only under your current conditions unless IRCC authorizes a new job (see the change-employer step).
3. Send your LMIA or CAQ through the web form as soon as you get it, if you applied without it.
4. Give biometrics if you receive an instruction letter. Answer any request for documents, a medical exam or a police certificate.
5. If approved: start working under the new conditions once you get the approval note, then renew your SIN (see 'Decision').
6. If refused: stop working; restoration may be possible within 90 days (see 'Decision').

Not covered here

• Restoring your status after it expired (Restore your status and get a work permit)
• Extending a PGWP because your passport expired early (paper only) (Official page)
• International Experience Canada extensions or changes (Official page)
• Initial work permits from outside Canada — see the employer-specific work permit walkthrough (Official page)
• How employers get an LMIA or submit an offer of employment (Official page)
• What to do if you lose your job (Official page)
• Paper applications (only if you can't apply online) (Official page)
• Temporary resident permits — see Guide 5553 (Guide 5553 – Applying for a work permit inside Canada)

Official IRCC pages

• Extend or change the conditions on your work permit
• Who can extend
• How to extend (maintained status, steps)
• After you extend (WP-EXT letter, proof of work)
• What to do if your work permit expired
• Changing jobs or employers
• If you want to travel outside Canada
• Restore your status and get a work permit
• IMM 5710 – form and instructions
• Guide 5553 – Applying for a work permit inside Canada
• Forms and documents (inside Canada)
• Extend a temporary worker's permit (employer page)
• IRCC fee list
• Check processing times
• IRCC web form
• Sign in or create an IRCC secure account

General information from IRCC’s official pages, not legal advice. Always follow the official instructions. Written from IRCC’s pages as they read on November 3, 2026; each point links to its source, and the official page wins wherever they differ.