Losing a job while on a closed work permit in Canada can be unsettling, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to leave the country immediately. A closed work permit ties you to a specific employer, so if that employment ends, your legal status may be at risk — but there are several options available.
First, it’s important to understand your current permit conditions. You are no longer authorized to work, but your status in Canada may still be valid until the expiry date on your permit. During this time, you can explore alternative immigration or work options.
One of the most commonly used pathways is applying for a new job offer and obtaining a new work permit — either employer-specific or open, depending on eligibility. If you find a new employer willing to support you through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, you may apply for another closed work permit.
Alternatively, if you’re eligible, you could switch to an open work permit, such as a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP), or apply under the International Mobility Program if applicable.
You may also consider transitioning to a visitor record to legally stay in Canada while you explore options. However, a visitor record doesn’t allow you to work.
In some cases, individuals choose to pursue permanent residence options if they meet the criteria through programs like Express Entry or provincial nominee programs.
Timing is critical — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allows a 90-day grace period to restore status or change conditions. Planning your next steps early ensures you don’t fall out of status and miss out on future opportunities in Canada.
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