Caregivers can extend their work permits in Canada. However, this must be done at least 30 days before the expiration of their permits. An individual’s temporary status as a live-in caregiver will remain the same until a decision on the application for extension has been made. The applicant will also be notified of the said decision.
Step 1: Determine How to Apply
There are two ways to apply for a work permit extension. An applicant can either choose to apply online or on paper. However, there are considerations to be taken before one can be eligible for either method. These are:
Applying online. In order to apply online, an individual must have an accessible scanner or camera to generate electronic copies of the documents required for uploading. Furthermore, a credit card that is valid and unexpired is also another thing needed for the online payment of fees. If both conditions are met, then one can already go online and determine his or her eligibility to apply online. Moreover, if one chooses an online application he or she must often check his or her email account regarding information pertaining to the application.
Applying on paper.
Step 2: Download the application Package (download and print)
The application package consists of a document checklist, instruction guides, and forms necessary for the application to proceed. The documents necessary for the application include the following:
- Completed Application Form
- Completed Document Checklist
- Stamped Receipt or IMM 5401
- Statutory Declaration of the Common Law Union (If applicable)
- A photocopy of the marriage certificate (If applicable)
- Use of representative (If applicable)
- Photocopies of passport pages
- Photocopies of the applicant’s travel or identity document
- Photocopy of immigration document (must be current)
- Job offer letter (from employer and must include job description, wages, and working conditions)
- Photocopy of employment contract (for live-in caregivers)
- Photocopy of Labor Market Opinion
- Photocopy of a valid return ticket (If available)
- Proof of completion of medical examination from a panel of physicians (optional)
- Proof of academic standing from institutions
- Photocopy of the nomination letter from nominating province
- Proof of the inability of the applicant to support herself
- Proof of the submission of personal information form to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB)
- Documents related to loss of status
Step 3: Pay the application fee
The application fee for an extension of the work permit is approximately 100.00 Canadian Dollars. Moreover, there are two methods of paying the application fee, and these are:
Online. Payments done online would need the use of a debit or credit card. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
On the other hand, accepted debit cards are those issued by Financial Institutions in Canada, like BMO, Scotia Bank, TD, or RBC. Moreover, a printer is necessary for the printing of the receipt and a valid email address where the correspondences would be sent.
At a financial institution. If one chooses this payment method, an original receipt of payment form (IMM 5401) is necessary for him or her to be able to pay at a financial institution. This form cannot be downloaded online and must be ordered by mail. Moreover, a copy of this receipt must also be enclosed together with the application.
Step 4: Submit the Application
For applications sent by mail, it is important to include the applicant’s full name, file number, and date of birth. It is also imperative for the applicant to keep a copy of the entire application. Send the application for an extension of the work permit and a letter of explanation at least 30 days prior to the expiration of the permit.
