If your study permit is about to expire and you still need time to finish your program, you need to apply for a study permit extension through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This guide walks you through who can extend, what you need, and how to avoid losing status.
Quick eligibility check
When to apply
IRCC recommends applying at least 30 days before your current study permit expires. In practice, apply earlier — processing for online study permit extensions inside Canada is currently 4 to 9 weeks (longer in peak fall and winter periods). Check the latest processing times on the IRCC processing times tool.
Documents you'll need
- Enrolment letter from your DLI confirming you are an active student and stating your program end date.
- Transcripts showing satisfactory academic progress.
- Proof of financial support — bank statements, scholarship letter, GIC, or a sponsor letter. IRCC expects roughly CAD $20,635/year outside Quebec (effective 2024 update, single applicant) on top of tuition.
- Copy of your current study permit and a valid passport bio page.
- Digital photo meeting IRCC's specifications.
- Updated IMM 5709 (Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Student).
- If applicable: Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) for students in Quebec.
- Any documents your DLI specifically requires (e.g. proof of co-op letter for co-op work permit).
How to apply online
- Sign in to your IRCC secure account (or create one).
- Select "Apply to come to Canada" → "Visitor visa, study and/or work permit".
- Answer the eligibility questionnaire — you'll get a personal reference code.
- Upload all documents in the requested format (PDF, mostly under 4 MB each).
- Pay the CAD $150 extension fee with a credit card.
- Submit. You'll get a confirmation and an application number — save them.
Maintained status (formerly "implied status")
If you apply before your current permit expires, you have maintained status. You can keep studying under the same conditions until IRCC decides. You must stay in Canada — if you leave and return, your maintained status ends and you'll need a new study permit to resume studies.
If your study permit already expired
You have 90 days from the expiry date to apply for restoration of status.
During those 90 days you cannot study or work. You must pay an additional CAD $239.75 restoration fee plus the CAD $150 study permit fee. After 90 days you must leave Canada and reapply from abroad.
Common reasons extensions are refused
- Insufficient proof of funds for tuition and living expenses.
- No clear evidence of academic progress (e.g. failed courses, gaps).
- DLI is not on the approved list, or your status at the DLI has lapsed.
- Inconsistent statements between current and previous applications.
- Missing CAQ for Quebec students.
- Application submitted after permit expired without restoration.
After your study permit extension is approved
Once finished, check whether you're eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — you must apply within 180 days of getting confirmation of program completion. Many students then use Canadian work experience to qualify for Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class).
Need help with your extension or PGWP?
Free 5-minute eligibility check — we'll map your study-to-PR pathway.
Official sources
- IRCC — Extend or change the conditions on your study permit
- IRCC — Restore your status as a student
- IRCC — Post-Graduation Work Permit Program
Information is accurate as of 2026 based on official IRCC guidance. Immigration rules change — always verify with the IRCC links above before applying.