How to Stay in Canada Legally After Your Work Permit Expires
Canada’s immigration policies are evolving, with changes to targets for 2025-2027 aiming to reduce the number of temporary residents. If your work permit is about to expire, you might be wondering: Can I stay in Canada legally? The answer is yes! One option is transitioning to visitor status by applying for a Visitor Record (VR)—a process that allows you to remain in Canada without working or studying.
If you’re exploring this route, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure a smooth transition.
What is a Visitor Record (VR)?
A Visitor Record (VR) is an official document that extends your legal stay in Canada after your work permit expires. However, it’s important to understand that it does not grant permission to work or study.
How is a Visitor Record (VR) Different from a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)?
- Visitor Record (VR): Lets you stay in Canada beyond your original authorized period but does not allow re-entry if you leave the country, except for short trips to the U.S. or St. Pierre and Miquelon.
- Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): Permits re-entry into Canada after travel abroad but does not extend your stay within the country.
Find out if you are eligible to get in Canada →
How to Apply for a Visitor Record
You need to do the following:
- Apply Before Your Work Permit Expires Don’t wait until the last minute! Submitting your VR application before your work permit expires ensures you maintain your legal status under maintained status (formerly known as implied status). This means you can stay in Canada while awaiting a decision.
- Maintained (Implied) Status: What It Means for You Once you apply for a VR before your work permit expires, you are legally allowed to stay in Canada under maintained status until a decision is made. However, it’s crucial to note that you must stop working as soon as your work permit expires.
- Understanding Immigration Laws Sections 183(5) and 186(u) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) outline how individuals can extend their stay in Canada. As long as your application is submitted on time, your legal status is automatically extended until you receive a decision on your VR application.
Did you miss the Deadline? Here’s What to Do!
If your work permit has already expired and you didn’t apply for a VR in time, don’t panic—you may still be able to restore your status.
- Apply for Restoration Within 90 Days According to Regulation 182 of IRPR, you have 90 days to apply for status restoration if your work permit has expired. Your application must be complete and accurate and include the $200 restoration fee per applicant and any other applicable fees.
- Not All Situations Qualify for Restoration Some cases may not be eligible for restoration. For example, international students no longer actively studying at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) under Regulation 220.1(1) are not eligible to restore their student status.
- Get Expert Help If you’re unsure whether you qualify for restoration, seeking advice from an immigration consultant is highly recommended. A professional can help ensure your application is submitted correctly and improve your chances of success.
Find out if you are eligible to get in Canada →
Navigating the transition from a work permit to visitor status in Canada doesn’t have to be stressful. By applying for a Visitor Record before your work permit expires, you can legally remain in Canada while you explore your next options—whether that’s preparing to return home or seeking new residency opportunities.
For tailored guidance, especially regarding status restoration, consider consulting an immigration expert or exploring useful resources like TRV courses and intent letter guides.
Planning ahead can make all the difference in ensuring a seamless transition—so take action today!
