1. Every Major Sports Season
Every major league sport season in North America is shorter than 223 days:
- MLB
- NBA
- NFL
- NHL
If you apply for your Canadian work permit today, there might just be a chance you’ll see the Toronto Maple Leafs make it to the Stanley Cup finals first!
2. Having a Baby
Did you just find out you’re pregnant? Your baby might be born before your Canadian work permit application is processed.
Yes, 223 days is only about 33 weeks, and term is 37 weeks (while full-term is 40 weeks). But most people only confirm they’re pregnant at 4-5 weeks following conception, earliest.
Pro tip: you better have your hospital overnight bag packed and car seat installed by 36 weeks.
3. Two Complete Seasons
Today we’re entering mid-autumn in Canada. Leaves are falling from the trees, squirrels are gathering their acorns, queen bees have gone into hibernation (and the bears are preparing). As the days get shorter and the evening starts sooner, we’ll soon be changing the clocks to fall back an hour.
In 222 days, it’ll be June. Trees will be lush green with leaves, squirrels will be rummaging through your green bin composts, bees will have all your flowers in full bloom, and you’ll be applying bug spray at 9:00 PM dusk.
But you’ll still be waiting for your work permit.
4. Getting Engaged AND Getting Married
Planning on popping “the question” tonight and getting married? Guess what? You can do both before your work permit is issued! (And let that be your wedding present?)
Speaking from experience, on a cold January day (many years ago), I asked my wife to marry me, and we celebrated our wedding that summer in August, less than 223 days later!
Need Help With Your Work Permit Application in Canada?
If you’re waiting for your work permit extension or need to change employers, 223 days is a long time to be in limbo. Your life doesn’t stop during those seven months—your career plans shouldn’t either.
With processing times this long, timing is everything. Starting your application at the right moment, ensuring everything is complete and accurate the first time, and understanding your options can make a real difference.
At Mandelbaum Immigration Law, we work with professionals and companies navigating Canadian work permit applications every day. We know what IRCC is looking for, and we know how to avoid the mistakes that can delay your application even further.
Don’t let a processing delay become a work permit problem.
Contact us to discuss your work permit:
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📧 Email: info@dmandelbaum.com
📞 Phone: (416) 646-3523
📋 Schedule a consultation
We’ll review your situation and help you understand your options for getting your Canadian work visa approved.
Canadian Work Permit FAQ
How long does it take to process a work permit extension in Canada?
As of October 2024, IRCC is taking approximately 223 days (over 7 months) to process work permit extensions and employer change applications submitted from inside Canada.
This timeline can vary, so it’s important to apply well before your current permit expires.
Can I continue working while waiting for my work permit extension?
If you submitted your work permit extension application before your current permit expired, you may have implied status.
This allows you to continue working under the same conditions while your application is being processed. Contact an immigration lawyer to confirm your specific situation.
When should I start my work permit extension application?
With current processing times at 223 days (over 7 months), you should start your work permit extension at least 8-9 months before your permit expires.
Starting early ensures you have time to gather all required documents and avoid gaps in your work authorization.
What happens if my work permit expires while IRCC is processing my extension?
If you applied for your extension before your permit expired, you maintain implied status and can continue working.
However, if you let your permit expire before applying, you may need to stop working and could face complications with your application. Always apply before expiry.
Can an immigration lawyer help speed up my work permit processing time?
While lawyers cannot speed up IRCC’s processing times, an experienced immigration lawyer can ensure your application is complete and accurate the first time, avoiding delays caused by requests for additional information or errors.
We can also help you understand all your options and choose the best pathway for your situation.
