How to Extend an Expiring Work Permit Without a New LMIA or CAQ
Many foreign workers may not realize that it’s possible for most individuals to apply for an extension of their expiring work permit, even if they haven't yet received a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or, when applicable, a new Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).

What are LMIAs and CAQs?
LMIAs and CAQs are essential documents that confirm a foreign worker’s eligibility to work in Canada, typically submitted alongside an application for work permit.
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a requirement for Canadian employers under the federal Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)). Employers must submit this application to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker will have a positive or neutral effect on the Canadian labour market.
Learn more about LMIA.
The CAQ (Quebec Acceptance Certificate), on the other hand, is issued by the Government of Quebec to foreign workers and international students who meet the province's admission criteria, allowing them to obtain a work or study permit. Quebec-based employers hiring foreign workers must secure both an LMIA and a CAQ for their workers.
How to Extend Your Work Permit Without a New LMIA or CAQ
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you can apply to extend your work permit if it is set to expire within two weeks of your extension application. However, IRCC requires that you submit proof of a valid job offer along with evidence that you have already applied for a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and, if required, a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).
There are several ways to prove that you have submitted your LMIA and CAQ applications when applying extension for your work permit:
- Upload a copy of the LMIA and CAQ (if applicable) application submissions.
- Upload a copy of the receipt or confirmation number (for online applicants) for both the LMIA and CAQ, if applicable.
- In the “Details of Intended Work in Canada” section of your application, provide the following information:
- The date the LMIA/CAQ request was submitted
- The office where it was sent
- The employer’s name
- The confirmation number for the submission (if available)
*For Quebec work permit extensions submitted online, you will be asked to upload a copy of your CAQ. If your new CAQ is not available yet, you can submit your CAQ receipt confirmation number or a copy of your CAQ application instead.
What Should I Do After Receiving My New LMIA and CAQ (If Applicable)?
Within 60 days of when IRCC receives your new work permit application, you must submit proof of your new LMIA and, if applicable, your CAQ to the responsible immigration department.
Failure to provide this proof within the required timeframe could result in your work permit application being denied.
If your work permit is expiring soon and you are currently in Canada, it may be beneficial to consult an immigration lawyer who can help ensure that your extension application is complete and includes all the necessary proof and documentation.
At TTN Immigration, we can help you with all matters related to Canadian immigration. Contact us for consultation and support.
English news: https://ttnimmigration.ca/vi/en/lam-the-nao-de-gia-han-giay-phep-lao-dong-sap-het-han-neu-chua-co-lmia-hoac-caq-moi/