Urgent: Extending Work Permit.

[ironhorse777]

So, I came to ON Canada from India in 2014 for my Masters and graduated in 2016. Got my PGWP which will expire on 06-JUL-19. I am currently working in an hourly position in a retail store (Home Depot) in a part time position. I am looking to extend my work permit. From what I can see on CIC looks like I might need an LMIA to extend my work permit. Since I have just less than 2 weeks left, what should I do first? Do I need an LMIA? and any chances my employer will help with extending my work permit in terms of getting an LMIA and I wish to apply for extending my work permit before it expires but because of this LMIA thing I am unable to. Can anyone help with what I need to do before I get into more mess than I am already in?

I am just rebuilding my life with this new job and family. Would really help if anyone can give some suggestions. Thanks.

 

[scylla]

So, I came to ON Canada from India in 2014 for my Masters and graduated in 2016. Got my PGWP which will expire on 06-JUL-19. I am currently working in an hourly position in a retail store (Home Depot) in a part time position. I am looking to extend my work permit. From what I can see on CIC looks like I might need an LMIA to extend my work permit. Since I have just less than 2 weeks left, what should I do first? Do I need an LMIA? and any chances my employer will help with extending my work permit in terms of getting an LMIA and I wish to apply for extending my work permit before it expires but because of this LMIA thing I am unable to. Can anyone help with what I need to do before I get into more mess than I am already in?

I am just rebuilding my life with this new job and family. Would really help if anyone can give some suggestions. Thanks.

You need an approved LMIA from your employer to extend your work permit. The LMIA process typically takes 4-6 months to complete. You won't have one within 2 weeks. You should apply to change your status to visitor now. You'll need to stop working as soon as your PGWP expires but will be able to remain in Canada legally. If you can get an approved LMIA from your current employer or another employer, you can then apply for a closed work permit linked to that specific employer.

Generally speaking, it's very difficult to find employers willing to go through the LMIA process because of the costs and length of time it takes.

 

[ironhorse777]

You need an approved LMIA from your employer to extend your work permit. The LMIA process typically takes 4-6 months to complete. You won't have one within 2 weeks. You should apply to change your status to visitor now. You'll need to stop working as soon as your PGWP expires but will be able to remain in Canada legally. If you can get an approved LMIA from your current employer or another employer, you can then apply for a closed work permit linked to that specific employer.

Generally speaking, it's very difficult to find employers willing to go through the LMIA process because of the costs and length of time it takes.

so, since I need to work to be able to support myself and my spouse. Is there no way out of this other than either getting a visitor visa, with which I cannot work or leaving the country?

 

[scylla]

so, since I need to work to be able to support myself and my spouse. Is there no way out of this other than either getting a visitor visa, with which I cannot work or leaving the country?

Unfortunately you've left things extremely late. I don't see any options that would allow you to remain in Canada and continue working without interruption.

 

[tipu_sultan]

so, since I need to work to be able to support myself and my spouse. Is there no way out of this other than either getting a visitor visa, with which I cannot work or leaving the country?

Brother, I am in a similar situation, how did things shape up at your end?