Extend Work Permit in Canada

[hopeful+]

Hi guys,

Hope someone could answer some of my question. Not sure if anyone already made a thread on this topic, if so sorry in advance.

Background: I've been in Canada for 7 years, working full time for 2. I already applied for CEC but when I did my medical, I found out that I'm HIV+, so all of the permanent options are out of the window. My current work permit will be expired in April 2015, still a long way to go but I just need to explore my options now. I just want to stay in Canada as long as possible, to take advance of treatment/health care for my condition mostly. And the company I'm working for will most likely wants to keep me as long as possible, I have good relationship with my boss. So my questions are:

- Will they ask for medical report for work permit extension?
- How many years will they allow me to stay if they approve my application?
- How many times can I extend my work permit?
- Are there any other options for me to stay and work in Canada?

Thanks.

 

[amira_mais]

I can take a stab at some of these.

- Will they ask for medical report for work permit extension?
This I don't know.

- How many years will they allow me to stay if they approve my application?
The general limit is 4 years unless you're working in a very high skilled occupation.

- How many times can I extend my work permit?
No limit to WP extensions but you may be subject to the 4 year overall limit depending on your job. Sometime this summer, this limit is supposed to fall to 2 years.

- Are there any other options for me to stay and work in Canada?
Outside of PR options which require a medical, I'm afraid I can't suggest any.

 

[canuck_in_uk]

Background: I've been in Canada for 7 years, working full time for 2. I already applied for CEC but when I did my medical, I found out that I'm HIV+, so all of the permanent options are out of the window.

Not necessarily. Have a look through here http://www.canadavisa.com/canada-immigration-discussion-board/need-urgent-helpcan-hiv-positive-person-get-pr-t124057.0.html.

Computergeek is extremely knowledgeable about this area and still active on the forum, so I suggest you get in touch with him.