Wait periods shorten for in-Canada work permit applications, i.e., foreign nationals applying for a work permit from within Canada are now seeing shorter wait periods, according to the latest figures released by Canada’s immigration department.
As of June 10, 2026, applicants seeking a new work permit or an extension of an existing permit can expect an estimated wait period of 186 days. This is an improvement from the 212-day estimate reported on May 6.
The latest update marks the shortest wait period reported so far in 2026 for in-Canada work permit applications and extensions.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses two different methods to estimate application timelines: forward-looking estimates and historical estimates.
For work permit applications and extensions submitted from within Canada, the department relies on historical estimates. These figures are based on how long it previously took IRCC to complete 80% of applications in the same category.
Although the latest figures show improvement, current wait periods remain above the department’s service goal. IRCC aims to finalize 80% of in-Canada work permit applications within four months under normal operating conditions.
Moreover, applicants who submit a work permit extension request before their current permit expires may continue working under maintained status.
Foreign nationals can continue working under the same conditions of their existing permit while officials make a decision on their new application.
Maintained status remains valid as long as the individual stays in Canada and submitted the extension application before the original permit expired.
Earlier this year, Canada introduced another measure to help applicants facing longer wait periods.
In April 2026, the government extended the validity of work permit support letters from six months to one year.
These support letters help foreign nationals prove their maintained status. They can show them to employers and government agencies.
The longer validity period was introduced to better reflect the extended wait periods many applicants have experienced in recent years.
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