If you applied to extend your work permit before it expired, you may be on maintained status. This means:
- You can stay in Canada legally, and
- You can keep working under the same conditions as your previous permit
Now, Canada has made one key improvement:
👉 The support letter that proves you can work is now valid for 365 days (about double the previous length).
The increased validity period for WP-EXT letters was conveyed in updated instructions to officers, published on the immigration department’s website on April 27, 2026.
Why This Change Matters
Before this update:
- Many workers had to request new letters repeatedly
- Employers sometimes refused to accept older letters
- This created stress and sometimes interrupted employment
With the new change:
- One letter can be used for a longer time
- Less need to contact immigration for updated proof
- Employers are more likely to accept your documents without hesitation
Important Clarification
There are two separate things:
- Maintained status → your legal right to work
- Support letter → proof you show to your employer
This update only improves the proof, not the underlying rule.
Who Benefits
Workers
- Less paperwork
- Lower risk of job interruption
- More confidence while waiting for a decision
Employers
- Easier to verify employee work authorization
- Fewer compliance concerns
What You Should Do
To stay safe and avoid problems:
- Apply for your extension before your current permit expires
- Keep copies of:
- Your application confirmation
- Payment receipt
- Support letter
- Share the support letter with your employer if needed
