Written on October 21, 2024 by Corinne Shipley
Authorization to work without a work permit
In response to the increasing number of work permit applications exceeding IRCC’s estimated processing times, we’ve created this guide for applicants whose applications have been in process for more than 180 days.
Many applicants continue to work under maintained status (formerly known as implied status) while waiting for the renewal or extension of their work permit. However, there can be uncertainty around proof of authorization to work, especially as delays extend and the original maintained status letter’s validity date expires. This situation can create confusion for both employees and employers.
To address this, IRCC has announced that they will now provide additional letters of interim proof of work for applicants whose cases have exceeded the 180-day validity of the original maintained status letter. It’s important to note that the letter’s validity date does not override the law. The applicant remains under maintained status until a decision is made on their application.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to submit a web form to IRCC to request continued proof of authorization to work under maintained status:
1. Ensure Eligibility for Maintained Status:
- You applied for a renewal or extension before the work permit expired.
- You continued to work under the same conditions as your original work permit.
- You remained in Canada while awaiting a decision on your application.
2. Gather Required Information:
Before submitting your webform request, make sure you have the following details on hand:
- Your UCI (Unique Client Identifier). This can be found on the top right corner of your work permit.
- The Application Number for the work permit renewal/extension (available in your IRCC account or acknowledgment letter).
- A copy of the confirmation that IRCC received your work permit application.
- Your current passport information.
3. Visit the IRCC Web Form Page:
Go to the official IRCC web form page. This is where you can submit your inquiry.
4. Choose the Relevant Category:
- Select Other as the inquiry type.
- Click Continue to Form
5. Fill in Personal Information:
- Choose “I am the principal applicant.”
- Enter your full name, email address, birth date, country of birth and UCI.
- Include details about your work permit application, such as the Application Number and what type of application you submitted.
6. Write a Clear Explanation of Your Request:
In the description section, explain that you are requesting continued proof of authorization to work while under maintained status. You may use the following template:
“I am writing to request an interim work letter with confirmation of my continued authorization to work under maintained status, as outlined in section 186(u) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR). My work permit renewal application was submitted on XXXX date, before my previous work permit expired, and I am currently awaiting a decision. I have continued to work under the same conditions as my previous work permit. I would appreciate confirmation of my continued authorization to work under maintained status until a decision is made on my application. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”
7. Review and Submit the Form:
Double-check the information for accuracy. Once you are certain all details are correct, submit the form.
8. Receive Confirmation
After submission, you should receive an automatic acknowledgment email from IRCC confirming receipt of your inquiry.
9. Monitor for Updates:
Keep an eye on your email for updates from IRCC regarding your request. They may take some time to respond, so ensure you monitor your account regularly, including your spam and junk folders. In our experience, not all webforms receive a response. If you do not get any confirmation from IRCC within the next two weeks, please feel free to submit another request.
IRCC has created this process to help applicants confirm their work authorization status while awaiting the decision on their work permit application. IRCC may follow up if they need further information or documentation.
TL;DR
If your work permit renewal application has been processing for over 180 days, IRCC now provides interim proof of work letters to confirm your authorization to work under maintained status. Follow the steps to submit a web form to request this proof, including ensuring your eligibility, gathering required documents, and writing a clear request. Monitor your email for updates, and if you don’t hear back in two weeks, submit another request. The interim letter does not override your maintained status rights under Canadian law.
Haven’t applied for a Canadian work permit yet but thinking about it?
Check out our article "Applying for a Canadian Work Permit"
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