Overview
Restoration is the pathway when your work permit expired before you applied to extend. It is more expensive, more restrictive, and less forgiving than an on-time extension. Use this guide only when you have already lost worker status—or are about to miss expiry without a filing.
Common situations
Permit expired yesterday and I have not applied
You have likely lost worker status. Stop working. Calculate whether you are still inside the 90-day restoration window and gather a complete restore + new work permit package quickly.
I thought a draft application protected me
A draft does not create maintained status. If IRCC did not receive a submission before expiry, treat this as restoration.
Family members also lost status
Each family member usually needs their own restoration application and fee. Confirm on IRCC.
I am past 90 days
Options narrow significantly. Do not rely on restoration guidance alone—get case-specific advice.
Who may apply to restore
IRCC says you may apply to restore status if you still meet the requirements of your stay and respected your previous conditions, among other factors. You typically apply for a new work permit and to restore temporary resident status, pay fees, and submit supporting documents.
On the form, select Restore my status where indicated and explain why you need to extend your stay.
Fees and timing
IRCC guidance generally includes:
- 90 days to apply to restore status
- a restoration fee plus a work permit fee
Confirm all fees on IRCC before paying. Approval is not guaranteed.
Working while you wait
After loss of status you cannot work until status is restored and a new work permit is issued. You may be able to remain in Canada while the application is processed, but “staying” is not the same as “working.”
What this means in practice
- Count the 90 days carefully from the day you lost status.
- Build employer or LMIA timelines into the restoration window—waiting on documents can consume days.
- Do not assume payment alone equals approval.
- Keep clear records of when you stopped working.
When to get help
Get help if the window is closing, your eligibility for a new work permit is unclear (including after a PGWP), you changed employers, or you already worked after expiry.
Restoration is time-sensitive. Tamara can review your dates, documents, and whether restoration is the right next step.
Application steps
- Confirm loss-of-status date and remaining days in the 90-day window.
- Stop working if you no longer have authorization.
- Confirm LMIA, exemption, or open-permit eligibility for the new work permit.
- Prepare the restore + new work permit package and explanation letter.
- Pay restoration and work permit fees (confirm on IRCC).
- Submit and keep proof of filing; track the decision in your account.
Common mistakes
- Continuing to work after losing status
- Waiting until day 89 without a complete package
- Filing restoration without required employer / LMIA evidence
- Assuming payment alone equals approval
- Confusing restoration with maintained status
Related guides
- Work Permit Expired
- Work Permit Extension in Canada
- Maintained Status for Workers
- Can I Stay After My Permit Expires?
This guide summarizes official IRCC sources listed above. Requirements change. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.
Before you apply
- Confirmed you are still within 90 days of losing status
- Stopped working if you no longer have authorization
- Gathered documents for a new work permit plus restoration
- Confirmed LMIA, exemption, or open-permit eligibility if required
- Prepared fee payment for restoration and work permit (confirm on IRCC)
- Drafted an explanation of why status was lost and why you should be restored
- Saved proof of submission and tracked the application
Frequently asked questions
- How long do I have to restore my status?
- IRCC generally cites 90 days to apply to restore temporary resident status. Do not wait until the last day without a complete package.
- Can I keep working while restoration is processing?
- No. After loss of status you must not work until your status is restored and you have a valid work permit again.
- What fees apply?
- Expect a restoration fee plus a new work permit fee. Re-check IRCC’s fee list before you pay; do not rely on outdated amounts.
- Is restoration guaranteed if I apply within 90 days?
- No. Meeting the deadline lets you apply; officers still assess the full application.
- Do family members need separate restorations?
- Each family member who lost status usually needs their own restoration application and fee. Confirm on IRCC.
- What if I am past 90 days?
- Options narrow significantly. Do not rely on restoration guidance alone—get case-specific advice and review IRCC pages on remaining temporary resident options.
- Is this legal advice?
- No. This guide summarizes official IRCC guidance. Outcomes depend on your full facts and officer assessment.
See also
References
- Restore your status
- Extend your work permit or change conditions
- Temporary residents: Maintained status
- Work in Canada — temporary workers
Note: This guide is general information, not legal advice. Outcomes depend on your facts and IRCC’s assessment. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.