When to Extend Your Study Permit in Canada

It is essential to remember that your study permit is usually valid for the length of your program plus an additional 90 days. Those extra days are meant to give you time to apply for an extension, prepare for departure, or transition to another status.

But if you don’t apply before your permit expires, you could lose your student status and even your ability to stay in Canada legally.

IRCC recommends applying for an extension at least 30 days before your study permit expires. However, waiting until the last minute is risky. Processing times can vary, and a delayed application could leave you in an uncertain situation.

The first thing you need to do is check the expiration date on your permit. It remains valid for the duration of your study program or up to 90 days after you complete your studies, whichever comes first.

These 90 days are not just a buffer period—they determine how long you can legally stay in Canada before either leaving the country or transitioning to another status.

Who Needs to Extend Their Study Permit in Canada?

There are several reasons why a student may need to extend their study permit in Canada. For example, if your program is taking longer than expected, IRCC requires that your permit be valid throughout your studies to maintain legal status.

Another common issue is an expiring passport. Your study permit can’t be extended beyond your passport’s expiration date, so if your passport is close to expiring, it’s important to ensure it remains valid before submitting your application, as your study permit cannot be extended beyond your passport’s expiry date.

Students who plan to transfer to another school or enrol in a new program will also need an extension. If you’re starting a new program after completing your current studies, a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is required to support your application.

How to Extend Study Permit in Canada – Step-by-Step Process

Extending your study permit is an online process managed by IRCC. Before starting your application, it’s important to gather all the necessary documents.

You will need proof of acceptance from your institution, a valid passport, and financial documents showing that you can support yourself while studying. Completing the IRCC application forms accurately is also crucial. Any errors could lead to delays or even rejection.

Once your documents are ready, submit your application through the IRCC website. You’ll need a scanner or camera to upload your documents and a debit or credit card to pay the processing fee.

After applying, IRCC will send you a confirmation email. Processing times vary, but study permit extensions typically take up to 90 days. However, delays can occur during peak periods or due to government service disruptions.

Many students who extend their study permit in Canada find that preparing all documents correctly in advance helps prevent unnecessary delays.

Can You Work While Waiting for Study Permit Extension Approval?

If you apply for an extension before your permit expires, you can continue studying and working under the same conditions until a decision is made. This means that if your original study permit allows you to work, you can keep working while your application is being processed.

However, if your study permit expires before you submit your application, you must immediately stop working. Once your student status is lost, you cannot legally work in Canada until your permit is renewed.

Applying to extend your study permit in Canada before your current permit expires ensures you can continue working without interruption.

Can You Travel While Your Study Permit Extension is Pending?

If you leave Canada while your study permit extension is being processed, re-entering the country may not be guaranteed. You must have a valid study permit or an official approval letter confirming that your extension has been granted.

Additionally, you need a valid visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to return. If your application is still pending when you try to re-enter Canada, you might not be allowed to resume your studies.

To avoid any disruptions, it’s best to wait until your study permit extension is approved before making travel plans. Many students who extend their study permit in Canada choose to delay travel until they receive official confirmation from IRCC.

Do You Need to Extend Your Family’s Permits Too?

If you have family members in Canada as dependents, their permits are directly linked to yours. This means that when you apply for a study permit extension, it is generally recommended to submit applications for dependents at the same time.

Restoring status after expiry may involve additional steps and costs, as outlined by IRCC. It’s generally recommended to apply for all extensions together.

If you need to extend your study permit in Canada and have dependents, applying for all extensions together may help streamline the process.

Strengthen Your Study Permit Extension with IELTS

A strong IELTS score can enhance your study permit extension application and create more opportunities for your future. Many universities and colleges in Canada require proof of English proficiency when accepting students into new programs, and IELTS is one of the most widely recognized tests.

While IELTS is not required for extending an existing study permit, a strong score may be needed if you’re applying for a new academic program, switching institutions, or planning to apply for permanent residency.

Beyond academic admissions, achieving a high IELTS score can also improve your eligibility for permanent residency programs in Canada. If you’re considering staying in Canada long-term, taking the IELTS test can be a strategic move. Some students who extend their study permit in Canada find that IELTS also helps them meet future immigration requirements.

Final Checklist to Extend Study Permit in Canada

Applying for a study permit extension on time is crucial to maintaining your legal status in Canada. Ensure that you submit your application at least 30 days before your permit expires, gather all required documents, and verify that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your extended stay.

If you’re switching schools, be sure to obtain a new Letter of Acceptance (LOA) before applying. Missing any of these steps could result in delays or complications in your application.

Visit the IELTS Canada homepage to find out more

Related articles

• Taking the IELTS as a student in Canada
• Top 5 Scholarships to Study in Canada: Understanding the Role of IELTS

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