Once you’ve submitted your work permit application, what happens next depends on whether you’re inside or outside Canada. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will begin processing your application by checking that you’ve submitted all the required documents – including your biometrics, if needed.
It’s important to monitor your application status and respond promptly to any requests for more information. Below is a breakdown of what to expect during and after the processing period.
On This Page You Will Find:
- What to expect after applying from inside or outside Canada
- How to submit biometrics and medical exams
- How to check your work permit application status
- What to do if IRCC requests more documents
- What happens if your application is approved
If You’re Outside Canada
After submitting your application from outside Canada, you must book your biometrics appointment as soon as possible to avoid delays. IRCC will check your application to confirm all documents are complete. If anything is missing, your application will be returned without processing.
An officer will also review whether your employer is eligible to hire foreign workers and whether you meet the work permit requirements. You may be asked to attend an interview or submit additional documents. If you require a medical exam, IRCC will send you instructions. Be aware that this can add more than three months to your processing time.
If your application is approved, IRCC will issue a port of entry (POE) letter of introduction, which confirms that you are allowed to work in Canada. This letter is not your work permit. You must present it when you arrive in Canada, where you’ll receive your actual work permit at the port of entry. The permit will detail the type of work you can do, where and for whom you can work, and how long you can work.
If You’re Inside Canada
If you’re applying from within Canada, IRCC will review your application in the same way – checking that all documents and biometrics are complete. You may be asked for additional information or a medical exam, depending on the type of work. If you’re missing anything, your application will be returned without being processed.
If you applied as a visitor before August 28, 2024, and meet certain conditions, you may request temporary authorisation to work while your application is being processed. To qualify, you must have applied for an employer-specific work permit and remained in Canada throughout the process. If eligible, you must contact IRCC using the web form and include specific information such as your work permit number, employer’s name, and job title.
Once you submit the request, IRCC may take up to 30 business days (about six weeks) to respond. You can begin working only after receiving confirmation.
Approved Applications from Inside Canada
If your application is approved and you applied from within Canada using the IMM 5710 form, you’ll receive a notification in your online account, followed by your work permit in the mail. You don’t need to wait for the paper permit to arrive – you can start working once you receive the approval notice.
If your address changes before you receive your permit, you must inform IRCC of the new mailing address. The physical permit should arrive within six weeks of the decision.
Port of Entry Applications
Most people already in Canada can no longer apply for work permits at the port of entry. All initial and extension applications must be submitted online. If you are outside Canada, you may still apply at a port of entry if eligible.
If you receive a POE letter of introduction while in Canada, you must exit the country and re-enter to activate your work permit. However, re-entering from the U.S. or Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon may not be sufficient to trigger this process. In these cases, IRCC advises travellers to exit more fully and re-enter via an appropriate Canadian port of entry.
FAQ
What happens after I apply for a work permit from outside Canada?
IRCC will check your application for completeness, including biometrics. If approved, you’ll get a port of entry letter to present when entering Canada.
How do I know if I need a medical exam?
If required, an officer will notify you and send instructions. A medical exam can add more than three months to your processing time.
Can I work while waiting for my permit inside Canada?
If you applied before August 28, 2024, as a visitor, and meet certain conditions, you may request interim work authorisation through the IRCC web form.
How do I track my application?
Use IRCC’s online Application Status Tracker with your UCI and application number to view real-time updates on your work permit application.
When will I get my work permit if I applied from inside Canada?
If approved, you’ll receive an online approval notice and then the permit by mail. You can start working once you get the approval notice, even before receiving the paper permit.
