Check Your Permit & Passport Expiry
Description
In 2026, processing times for IRCC are unpredictable. You should never let your permit fall below 6 months of validity without a plan. This audit prevents last-minute panics and ensures you maintain your legal right to work or study.
In person
N/A
Online
15–20 min
What to do
1.
Check the 'Expiry Date' on your physical Work or Study permit
2.
Verify your Passport expiry — your permit cannot be extended beyond your passport's life
3.
Set a digital calendar reminder for 6 months BEFORE your permit expires
4.
If your permit expires in less than 6 months, begin gathering documents for renewal immediately
Warnings
Maintained Status (Implied Status)
- If you apply for a renewal before your current permit expires, you can legally keep working/studying while waiting
- If you apply even one day late, you lose your status and must stop working immediately
Tips
Check via IRCC secure account
Log in to ircc.canada.ca to view your permit's exact expiry date and any IRCC correspondence — this is the most authoritative source.
Renew your passport first if needed
IRCC cannot extend your permit beyond your passport's expiry date. If both need renewal, renew the passport first, then apply for a permit extension with the new passport details.