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In Canada, many foreign workers worry about what happens if their work permit expires while a renewal or extension is still being processed.?This is where “implied status” offers important legal protection.?It allows eligible workers to remain in Canada and continue working legally while waiting for a decision on their application — as long as certain rules are followed.
1. What Is Implied Status?
Implied status (officially called maintained status) is a legal provision under Canadian immigration law that allows a foreign national to:
• Stay in Canada legally, and
• Continue working under the same conditions
after their work permit expires if they applied for a renewal before the expiry date.
It prevents gaps in legal status for workers who remain in Canada while IRCC processes their application.
2. Who Qualifies for Implied Status?
You qualify if:
• You submit a complete work permit extension/renewal application
• Your application is filed before your current permit expires
• You stay inside Canada while waiting for a decision
If you leave Canada, implied status ends immediately.
3. What Can You Do Under Implied Status?
If you applied for a work permit renewal, you may:
Continue Working Legally
You must continue with:
• The same employer
• The same job
• The same employment conditions as your current work permit
Continue Living in Canada Legally
You do not need to leave the country even if your permit has expired.
4. What You Cannot Do Under Implied Status
You are not allowed to:
• Start a new job
• Change employers
• Change work conditions
• Travel outside Canada (this ends your implied status)
Once you leave, you cannot resume working until your new permit is approved.
5. Proof of Implied Status
Workers should keep:
• A copy of the submitted renewal application
• The confirmation email or payment receipt from IRCC
• A copy of the expired work permit
Employers may request these documents to verify legal work authorization.
6. What Happens When the Decision Arrives?
If Approved:
You continue working without interruption and receive a new work permit.
If Refused:
• Implied status ends immediately
• You must stop working
• You may apply for restoration of status within 90 days (if eligible)
7. Why Implied Status Is Important for Workers
Implied status protects workers by:
• Preventing gaps in employment
• Allowing uninterrupted legal stay
• Ensuring employers can retain staff during IRCC delays
• Reducing the risk of falling out of status
With processing times often longer than expected, implied status is an essential safeguard for foreign workers in Canada.
Key Takeaway
Implied status allows foreign workers in Canada to stay and continue working legally while waiting for their work permit renewal — as long as the application is submitted before expiration and the worker remains in Canada.?It ensures stability, protects legal status, and prevents employment interruptions.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.?Rules related to maintained status are based on IRCC regulations and may change.?Always check the latest details on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website before applying.
November 26, 2025
