Study permit extension in Canada

When should you extend your study permit?

An extension may be needed in particular when:

• your studies continue beyond your permit's expiry date;
• your study path changes or is extended, which affects your immigration documents;
• other situations apply, depending on the rules in force.

Not every case requires a new permit: your situation needs to be checked.

When should you submit the application?

IRCC says to submit the extension application at least 30 days before the permit expires. To keep your status while the application is assessed, it must be submitted before the expiry.

The earlier you start, the easier it is to gather the necessary documents.

Documents to extend a study permit

Depending on your situation, documents may include:

• your current study permit;
• your passport and identity documents;
• proof of enrolment or a letter from your educational institution;
• a valid CAQ, if you study in Québec;
• proof of funds, depending on your situation;
• explanatory or additional documents, depending on your profile.

This list is not exhaustive.

Maintained status during processing

If your application is submitted before your permit expires and you stay in Canada, you keep your temporary resident status (maintained status). You can then continue studying under the conditions of your current permit until a decision is made.

This only applies as long as you stay in Canada: if you leave the country, you will not be able to return without a valid study permit or a letter of introduction.

To learn more, see our page on maintained status during processing.

Is your study permit already expired?

If your permit expired before the application was submitted, you can no longer study until your status is restored. You can submit a restoration application within 90 days of the expiry, together with an application for a new study permit. You can stay in Canada while it is processed, but approval is not guaranteed.

Each situation must be reviewed individually. See our page on restoration of status.

How we support your extension

Pro Immigration can help you:

• review your situation and the deadlines;
• check your study path and your enrolment;
• check the CAQ, if required;
• check the documents and the proof of funds;
• prepare and submit the application;
• explain your status while the application is processed;
• review the options if the permit expires;
• follow the file through to a decision.

We cannot guarantee the outcome of the application: the decision rests with IRCC.

Do you need to renew your CAQ?

Students in Québec generally need a valid CAQ to continue their process. If your CAQ is about to expire or your study path changes, see our page on CAQ renewal. The Government of Québec recommends submitting the application at least three months before the CAQ and the study permit expire.