Applying for a so-called dummy work permit in Canada may sound like a shortcut, but it’s actually illegal, unethical, and extremely risky. Many applicants consider filing a work permit application without proper eligibility—just to buy time. However, this practice can lead to 100% refusal, a 5-year ban for misrepresentation under IRPA s.40, and long-term damage to future immigration applications.
What is a Dummy Work Permit?
A “dummy” work permit application happens when someone applies without meeting eligibility criteria. For example: An employer has not yet submitted a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), but the worker files a work permit application anyway.
This creates a false impression of eligibility, which IRCC treats as misrepresentation.
Why It’s Risky?
On May 28, 2025, IRCC issued updated guidance confirming that filing multiple in-Canada extension applications no longer prolongs maintained status. That means:
- If your first application is refused, all duplicate or pending applications are automatically rejected.
- Applying for a dummy work permit is no longer a way to “buy time.
The Right Path
If your employer has already submitted your LMIA application, you may apply for a work permit by attaching the LMIA submission receipt and explanation. Once the LMIA is approved, you can update IRCC through a webform. This keeps your application legal and compliant while preserving your chances of approval.
Short-Term “Benefit” vs. Long-Term Loss
- Dummy Work Permit: May give 4–7 months of temporary maintained status, but always ends in refusal and a record of misrepresentation.
- Proper LMIA-Based Application: Lets you work legally under maintained status until IRCC decides. If refused, you still have a 90-day restoration period or can switch to a Visitor Record.
Conclusion
A dummy work permit may seem like a short-term benefit, but it almost always results in refusal and can ruin your immigration future. Instead, follow the correct process and consult an immigration lawyer to protect your status.
Book your first free in-person assessment with A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation to explore legal options.
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