I want to extend my expiring work permit, but I don’t have a new LMIA or CAQ yet. What should I do?

You can apply for a work permit extension without a new labour market impact assessment (LMIA) or Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ), but you must submit the required document within 90 days of us receiving your application.

If you don’t submit your LMIA or CAQ within 90 days, your application may be refused for being incomplete.

If you need a new LMIA

Your employer should apply for an LMIA before you apply for a work permit extension to make sure you receive the LMIA on time.

You can only apply for a work permit extension without an LMIA if your current work permit will expire in less than two weeks. If you apply for your work permit extension at the same time your employer applies for the LMIA, your application may be refused unless we receive your LMIA within 90 days.

Check LMIA processing times

If you need a new CAQ

You must apply for your CAQ before you apply for a work permit extension. However, you can apply for your work permit extension before you’ve received your new CAQ.

What to include when you apply for your work permit extension

If you don’t have your new LMIA or CAQ yet, you must include both of the following in your work permit extension application:

• proof that you have a valid job offer
• proof that the LMIA or CAQ request was made

How to submit your LMIA or CAQ

Submit your missing document using the IRCC web form.