August 9, 2025
Losing your job while holding a closed work permit in Canada can feel overwhelming—especially when your legal status is directly tied to your employment. But don’t panic. With quick action and the right immigration strategy, you can maintain your legal status and even work toward Canadian permanent residency (PR).
In this blog, MyWorld Immigration breaks down your best options and explains how our licensed immigration consultants can support you through every step of your Canada immigration journey.
Option 1: Apply for a New Employer-Specific Work Permit
If your closed work permit is still valid and you receive a new job offer from a Canadian employer, you can apply for a new employer-specific work permit from within Canada.
Required Documents:
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer
- Signed employment contract
- A positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an offer of employment number (if LMIA-exempt)
At MyWorld Immigration, we help you prepare accurate applications and request interim work authorization to minimize downtime between jobs.
Option 2: Work Remotely for a Foreign Employer
If you’re unable to secure a Canadian job immediately, you can legally work remotely for a foreign employer without a Canadian work permit—if certain conditions are met:
Eligibility Requirements:
- The foreign employer must have no financial or physical presence in Canada
- You must not serve Canadian clients or receive income from Canadian sources
To legally remain in Canada while working remotely, consider applying for a Visitor Record (VR) before your current permit expires. This allows you to stay in Canada while working remotely—though you won’t be authorized to work for a Canadian company.
- Current processing time for a Visitor Record: 203 days
- Apply at least 30 days before your permit expires
MyWorld Immigration provides complete assistance in filing a Visitor Record application.
Our consultants ensure your Visitor Record application is submitted accurately and on time, helping you maintain legal status in Canada after your work permit expires. We assess your eligibility, gather required documentation, and craft a strong submission that clearly outlines your intent to stay in Canada temporarily while complying with immigration rules. Whether you’re switching to remote work for a foreign employer or need extra time to explore new work opportunities, our team ensures your transition is legally sound and stress-free.
Maintained Status & Restoration of Status
If you apply for a new work permit or VR before your current status expires, you may benefit from maintained status, allowing you to legally remain in Canada while awaiting a decision.
However, under maintained status, you may face limitations (e.g., trouble renewing your health card or SIN).
If you miss the deadline, you may still qualify for restoration of status within 90 days—provided:
- You haven’t overstayed by more than 90 days
- You haven’t violated the conditions of your permit
How MyWorld Immigration Supports You
At MyWorld Immigration, our team of RCIC-licensed immigration consultants provides trusted legal support to individuals facing job loss under closed work permits. We help you:
- Find viable options to maintain your legal immigration status
- Prepare new LMIA-based or LMIA-exempt applications
- Submit Visitor Records, restoration, and work permit applications accurately
- Transition toward Canadian PR through strategic immigration planning
Need Help Fast? Book a Consultation Now
Your job may be gone—but your options aren’t. Let MyWorld Immigration help you navigate this transition and get back on track.
Book your consultation today and move forward with confidence.
Your Canadian immigration future is still within reach..