If you’re in Canada on a closed work permit and you lose your job, it may feel like your status disappears overnight. But legally speaking, your permit is still valid until its expiry date—what changes is your ability to use it.

Closed work permits are tied to one employer and one job. So if you stop working for that employer, you lose the authorization to work, even though your stay in Canada may remain technically legal for a time. This can create confusion, especially if you’re trying to pivot quickly to a new role.

So what are your options?

– You cannot work for another employer unless you apply for a new permit. This requires either a new LMIA-supported offer or an open work permit (if you’re eligible).
– You may be eligible for restoration of status. If you act within 90 days, you can request IRCC to reinstate your work status based on a new offer.
– If restoration isn’t possible, you may need to leave and re-enter. Some people exit and reapply from outside Canada, though this route can be risky if done without guidance.

Losing your job doesn’t mean your immigration path is over—but it does mean that quick action matters. You should immediately stop working to avoid unauthorized employment. In the meantime, you can remain in Canada legally as a visitor or apply to change your conditions while you sort out your next steps.

At our firm, we’ve helped workers who lost jobs overnight rebuild their status and even leverage their time in Canada to shift toward permanent residency. The trick is acting fast—and acting smart.