Immigration and status

Start by identifying the document you hold and its expiry date. A work permit, study permit, and visitor record each provide different rights.

Before any application

• Create or open your secure IRCC account and make sure your address, passport, and civil-status details are current.
• Scan your passport, current permit, employment or admission letters, proof of funds, and civil-status records.
• Apply to extend your document before it expires. Maintained status depends on the application type and your circumstances.

Permanent residence and family

• Use the official tool to compare Express Entry, provincial nominee programs, and family sponsorship.
• For the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, check the criteria for the specific stream before creating a profile.
• Do not pay anyone for a “guaranteed place.” No representative can guarantee a favourable decision.

Official links and useful services

• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada — opens the external site
• Check processing times — opens the external site
• Extend or change a work permit — opens the external site
• Alberta Advantage Immigration Program — opens the external site
• Find an authorized representative — opens the external site