Immigration Status
SIN & Maintained Status Guide
Understand how Social Insurance Numbers (SIN) remain active during permit renewal processing.
⚠️ Maintained Status (formerly Implied Status):
Service Canada and IRCC allow temporary residents to continue working under the same conditions while their extension is processed. Your SIN does not "expire" for work purposes during this period, even if the document shows a past date.
SIN Compliance Evaluator
Input your permit extension details to check your legal work authorization status:
Service Canada SIN Guidelines for Employers
Many human resource departments mistakenly request a new SIN document as soon as the old permit expiry date passes. You can share this official regulatory guidance with them:
- Section 186(u) of the IRPR: This regulation guarantees the right of temporary residents to work without a permit if they have applied to extend their permit and a decision has not yet been made.
- Service Canada Directives: Service Canada will not issue a new SIN confirmation letter while you are on maintained status. They will only update your record and issue a new letter once IRCC approves your new work or study permit.
- Proving Compliance: To keep payroll active, provide your employer with (1) a copy of your expired permit, (2) your IRCC submission receipt showing the application date prior to expiry, and (3) a link to this guide.
SIN & Status Status
SIN Length9 Digits
Work Authorization RuleSection 186(u) IRPR
Maintained Status lengthUntil decision
Restoration Limit90 Days Post-Expiry