Punjab Newsline | Ottawa
Under the concurrent processing system, workers can now get an additional 30 days to complete the work permit extension process if their employer has already submitted a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) application on their behalf.
The move is particularly significant for Punjabi youth, many of whom are working in Canada on temporary work permits after completing their studies. Several workers want to continue with their current employers while also pursuing permanent residency.87
Delays in the LMIA process have often created uncertainty for workers, including the risk of their work permits expiring before the process is completed. The additional 30 days could provide more time to manage employment, housing and financial responsibilities while planning their immigration future.
However, the 90-day period should not be treated as a new work permit. Workers must ensure that their employer has submitted the LMIA application within the required timeframe. Simply waiting until the existing work permit is close to expiry and then submitting an LMIA application does not automatically guarantee eligibility for the 90-day extension window.
