Work permit extension — cover letter (in-Canada)

Work permit extensions are filed using IMM 5710 (Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay, Or Remain in Canada as a Worker). File at least 30 days before current permit expiry to maximise implied status protection.

Draft a 400-500 word extension cover letter for [CLIENT_NAME], current WP expiring [CURRENT_PERMIT_EXPIRY], extending with [EMPLOYER_NAME] for the position of [POSITION_TITLE].

§1 — OPENING (40-60 words)
"I respectfully apply for an extension of my current work permit pursuant to IRPR R200. My current permit expires on [CURRENT_PERMIT_EXPIRY], and I seek extension on the basis of [EXTENSION_REASON]."

§2 — STATUS HISTORY (60-80 words)
  • First entered Canada on [DATE] under [INITIAL_STATUS]
  • Subsequent permits + extensions chronologically
  • Continuous valid status (no gaps, no overstays)
  • If applicable: R183 implied status periods during pending applications

§3 — CURRENT EMPLOYMENT (80-100 words)
  • Employer: [EMPLOYER_NAME] (CRA BN: [BN])
  • Position: [POSITION_TITLE] (NOC: [NOC_CODE])
  • Start date with this employer
  • Duties (key responsibilities matching NOC profile)
  • Compensation: CAD [WAGE] per hour / annum
  • Continuous full-time employment

§4 — BASIS FOR EXTENSION (100-130 words)

If LMIA-supported continuation:
  • New LMIA confirmation number, valid until [DATE]
  • Same employer + position
  • ESDC has confirmed continued labour market need

If LMIA-exempt continuation (e.g. C12 ICT):
  • R204/R205 still applies
  • Same qualifying relationship (parent-subsidiary)
  • Continued business need

If awaiting PR (Express Entry / PNP):
  • Apply for BOWP (separate process) instead of standard extension
  • This prompt's flow is for non-BOWP extensions

§5 — DURATION REQUESTED (40-60 words)
  • [EXTENSION_DURATION_REQUESTED] from current expiry
  • Capped at LMIA validity (if LMIA-supported)
  • Capped at maximum cumulative for category (e.g. 4 years for high-wage LMIA, 1 year for low-wage)
  • Capped at passport validity

§6 — STATUS MAINTENANCE (40-60 words)
"This application is filed before my current permit expiry. Pursuant to R183, I will maintain status under my current permit's conditions ([EMPLOYER_NAME], [POSITION_TITLE], [LOCATION]) until a decision is made on this extension."

§7 — INTENT TO COMPLY (40-60 words)
Affirm:
  • Will work only for [EMPLOYER_NAME] (or as restored to per LMIA/IMP class)
  • Will respect extended permit validity
  • Will leave Canada at end of authorised stay if extension not granted

ANNEXES
  • Annex A: Current work permit (copy)
  • Annex B: Updated offer letter / continued employment letter
  • Annex C: New LMIA (if applicable) OR proof of LMIA-exempt eligibility
  • Annex D: Recent pay stubs (3-6 months) — proves continued employment
  • Annex E: Recent T4 / NOA
  • Annex F: Passport
  • Annex G: Fee receipt (CAD 155 + CAD 100 OWP holder fee if applicable = CAD 255 total)

End with: "DRAFT WP EXTENSION COVER LETTER — for RCIC review. Confirm 30-day-pre-expiry filing window. If LMIA-tied, verify new LMIA confirmation is in hand before submission."