Understanding Your Canada Work Permit Number
If you're working in Canada, you likely have multiple numbers associated with your immigration file. This confusion is completely normal. Many work permit holders don't realize there are actually several different identification numbers on their documents, and each serves a different purpose.
The most important thing to understand is that "work permit number" can refer to different things depending on context. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses specific terminology, and knowing the difference between these numbers will save you time when dealing with government applications or your employer.
The Work Permit Document Number
The document number is the primary identifier for your actual work permit. This is the number most people are looking for when they ask about their "work permit number."
The document number on a Canadian work permit appears in the top right corner of your permit. It follows this format: one letter followed by nine digits (for example: W993830598).
For work permits specifically, the first letter is typically W. However, you may see other letters if your document is a study permit (F), a visitor record (V), or another type of authorization. The nine-digit sequence that follows is unique to your document.
This is the number you'll use when:
- Contacting IRCC about your specific permit
- Updating your employer with work authorization details
- Renewing your work permit
- Applying for permanent residence based on work experience
The UCI: Your Unique Client Identifier
Your Unique Client Identifier (UCI) is a different number from your document number, and this is where confusion often happens.
The UCI is an 8-digit number assigned to you when you first create an IRCC account or submit an application to Immigration Canada. This number stays with you throughout all your interactions with IRCC, regardless of which permits or visas you receive.
Your UCI does not change when you renew your work permit or transition to a different immigration status. It's your permanent identifier within the IRCC system. You'll see your UCI in:
- Your IRCC account profile
- Correspondence from IRCC
- Your work permit (usually on the back or in the biographical section)
Is the UCI number a work permit number? Not exactly. While the UCI is associated with your work permit file, it's a broader identifier used across all your immigration matters. If someone asks specifically for your "work permit number," they typically want the document number (the W-series number), not your UCI.
The File Number: Your Application Reference
Another number you might encounter is your file number. This is assigned to you when you submit a specific application to IRCC.
File numbers are important for tracking applications, but they change each time you submit a new application. For example, your work permit application has a file number, and if you later apply for permanent residence, that application gets a different file number.
File numbers typically follow patterns like:
- Economic class applications: E099977028
- Work permit applications: W followed by numbers
- Study permit applications: F followed by numbers
Unlike your UCI (which never changes), your file number is specific to that particular application or request.
How to Find Your Work Permit Number
Locating your work permit number is straightforward once you know where to look.
On the physical document: Look at the top right corner of your work permit. You'll see a letter followed by nine digits in a box. This is your document number.
In your IRCC account: Log into your My IRCC account online. Your document number and UCI will be displayed in your profile.
In your email: IRCC correspondence typically includes your file number and UCI for reference.
If you've recently received your work permit and can't locate the number, check:
- The back of your permit card
- The biographical information section
- Any letters or documents IRCC sent you
What to Do If You Can't Find Your Number
Sometimes work permits are unclear, or you might have misplaced documentation. If you need your work permit number urgently, you have options.
You can contact IRCC directly through their Help Centre by providing your date of birth, full name, and country of residence. They'll be able to confirm your document number.
Your employer or your immigration consultant can also help locate this information. Book a consultation with our licensed RCICs at Go Far Global if you're having trouble accessing your documentation or need clarification on your immigration file.
Work Permit Numbers and Your Status
Your work permit number is directly tied to your work authorization. When you apply for jobs or need to prove your right to work in Canada, you may be asked for this number.
Employers sometimes request the document number to verify your authorization independently. They can contact IRCC with this information if needed for compliance purposes.
If your work permit is about to expire, your document number will appear on renewal notifications from IRCC. Don't wait until the last minute to renew. Check Canadian work permits for current processing times and requirements.
Why These Numbers Matter for Your Applications
When you apply for permanent residence through programs like Canadian Experience Class, Global Mobility Program, or Provincial Nominee Program, IRCC will need your work permit document number.
Providing incorrect numbers can delay your application or result in processing errors. Many applicants make mistakes by confusing their UCI with their document number when filling out forms.
When completing IRCC forms, double-check that you're entering the correct identifier. If the form asks for "document number," use the W-series number. If it asks for "UCI" or "unique identifier," use the 8-digit number.
Get Expert Help Understanding Your Immigration File
Immigration documentation can be overwhelming, especially when multiple identification numbers are involved. Our team at Go Far Global specializes in helping workers understand their permits and plan their next steps.
Whether you're unsure about which number to use on an application, planning to renew your work permit, or considering applying for permanent residence, our licensed immigration consultants can provide clear, practical guidance.
Book a consultation with Go Far Global today. We'll review your work permit, explain your numbers, and help you navigate your Canadian immigration path with confidence.