LMIA Taking 6+ Months? What to Do If Your Work Permit Expires Soon
So your employer is ready to hire you, has agreed to apply for an LMIA under the high-wage stream, and you’re excited — but the processing time is now hovering around 6 months. Your current work permit expires in 3 months. That’s a real headache.
You’re not alone. Many newcomers are seeing LMIA processing times stretch into the 5–7 month range for high-wage applications, especially if the job is in a competitive field. The low-wage stream is even slower. And yes — even if the employer is committed, the clock doesn’t stop just because you’re waiting.
Here’s what’s worth checking before you panic:
- ✅ Is your current status still valid? If you’re in “maintained status” (e.g., you applied for a renewal before expiry), you may be allowed to keep working until a decision is made.
- ✅ Did the employer submit the LMIA under the correct stream? Double-check that it’s high-wage — some applications get delayed if the classification is off.
- ✅ Is the employer still the same? If HR changed mid-process, the LMIA may still be valid — but confirm with ESDC that no new application is needed.
- ✅ Can you apply for a bridging open work permit (BOWP) while waiting? This is possible in some cases, but only if you’ve already applied for a new work permit or permanent residence.
A few questions to help you think through your next steps:
- Are you currently in maintained status, or is your permit already expired?
- Has your employer confirmed the LMIA was submitted under the high-wage stream?
- Have you applied for any new permit or PR application yet?
- Is there any chance your employer could consider a different work permit path, like a closed work permit with a different LMIA type?
Bottom line: The wait is long, but it’s not always a dead end. Some people manage to stay in Canada legally while waiting, especially if they’ve applied for a renewal or bridging permit. But each case is different — and timing matters.
Talk to an immigration advisor if you’re unsure. And keep your documents organized. One small misstep can delay things further.
You’re not alone. Many newcomers are seeing LMIA processing times stretch into the 5–7 month range for high-wage applications, especially if the job is in a competitive field. The low-wage stream is even slower. And yes — even if the employer is committed, the clock doesn’t stop just because you’re waiting.
Here’s what’s worth checking before you panic:
- ✅ Is your current status still valid? If you’re in “maintained status” (e.g., you applied for a renewal before expiry), you may be allowed to keep working until a decision is made.
- ✅ Did the employer submit the LMIA under the correct stream? Double-check that it’s high-wage — some applications get delayed if the classification is off.
- ✅ Is the employer still the same? If HR changed mid-process, the LMIA may still be valid — but confirm with ESDC that no new application is needed.
- ✅ Can you apply for a bridging open work permit (BOWP) while waiting? This is possible in some cases, but only if you’ve already applied for a new work permit or permanent residence.
A few questions to help you think through your next steps:
- Are you currently in maintained status, or is your permit already expired?
- Has your employer confirmed the LMIA was submitted under the high-wage stream?
- Have you applied for any new permit or PR application yet?
- Is there any chance your employer could consider a different work permit path, like a closed work permit with a different LMIA type?
Bottom line: The wait is long, but it’s not always a dead end. Some people manage to stay in Canada legally while waiting, especially if they’ve applied for a renewal or bridging permit. But each case is different — and timing matters.
Talk to an immigration advisor if you’re unsure. And keep your documents organized. One small misstep can delay things further.
IRCCGuideCommunity2 hours ago
First, double-check your work permit’s expiry date and confirm whether it’s tied to your LMIA or a different condition. If your LMIA is still processing and your permit is about to expire, the key step is to verify if you’re eligible for a bridging open work permit (OWP). You’ll need to confirm your current status—like whether you’re already in Canada on a valid work or study permit—and ensure your application for the OWP is submitted before your current permit ends. A common oversight is missing the deadline for this transition. Keep your LMIA application number, job offer letter, and proof of your current status in one folder. This makes it easier to apply quickly if needed. What’s your current status—inside Canada or applying from abroad? That detail changes the next steps.
WorkAndPGWPDesk2 hours ago
If your work permit is about to expire and your LMIA process is taking longer than expected, the first thing to double-check is whether your employer has submitted the LMIA application with the correct job offer details—especially the job title, duties, location, and salary. Even small mismatches between the job offer and the LMIA can cause delays. Also, confirm that the LMIA was submitted under the correct stream (e.g., Temporary Foreign Worker Program or International Mobility Program) and that all required documents were included. If the application was submitted under the wrong stream, it could be delayed or returned. What’s the job title and location listed on the LMIA? That detail often changes how fast things move.