If you are an international student studying in Canada or planning to do so, it’s essential to be aware of the process for extending your study permit or restoring your status if needed. Staying informed about these procedures can ensure a smooth and uninterrupted continuation of your studies in the country. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to extend your study permit and what to do if your permit has expired.
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Extending Your Study Permit
To maintain your status as a student in Canada, you must extend your study permit before it expires. Here are the key points you need to know:
1. Timely Application: Apply to extend your study permit at least 30 days before its expiry date. Failing to do so might result in the loss of your status as a student in Canada.
2. Check Passport Expiry Date: Ensure that your passport’s expiry date is not the same as your study permit’s. Your study permit cannot be extended beyond your passport’s expiry date.
3. Continuing Studies: If you apply for an extension before your permit expires, you can continue studying under the same conditions as your current study permit until a decision is made. However, this only applies if you stay in Canada during this period.
4. Early Completion of Studies: If you complete your studies earlier than expected, your study permit will expire on the earlier of two dates: the date marked on the permit or 90 days after the day you complete your studies.
5. Starting the 90 days: The 90-day period begins either on the date you receive the first notification from your school confirming your program completion or when you obtain your degree, diploma, or certificate.
6. Study Permit Extension for Late Completion: If you finish your studies later than expected, you must apply to extend your study permit at least 30 days before the original expiry date.
Restoring Your Status as a Temporary Resident
If your study permit has already expired and you wish to continue studying in Canada, you must restore your status as a temporary resident. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Apply for a New Study Permit: Firstly, apply for a new study permit to continue your studies.
2. Restore Your Status: Next, apply to restore your temporary resident status in Canada.
3. Pay Restoration Fee: You will be required to pay a restoration fee of $350, which includes a fee for restoration ($200) and a new study permit ($150).
Important Considerations:
- You lose your student status in Canada if your study permit expires before you apply for a new one or if you change the conditions on your study permit without proper authorization.
- If you’ve lost your status, you cannot study in Canada until your status has been restored.
- You can stay in Canada during restoration, but approval is not guaranteed.
- If your spouse, common-law partner, or dependent children are in Canada with you, they may need to restore their status if required.
Other Options If You’re No Longer Studying
In case you decide not to continue your studies in Canada, you have a few options:
1. Apply for a Work Permit: If you’ve completed your studies and are eligible, you can apply for a work permit to work in Canada.
2. Apply to Change Status: Alternatively, you can apply to change your status and stay in Canada as a visitor.
3. Leave Canada: If your study permit has expired and you haven’t applied for an extension or restoration, you must leave Canada.
Staying compliant with the regulations and procedures related to study permits and temporary resident status in Canada is crucial for international students. Keep track of the deadlines and submit your applications on time to continue your education journey smoothly in this beautiful country.
Pax Law can help you!
Our immigration lawyers and consultants are willing, ready, and able to assist you in meeting the requirements necessary to apply for any Canadian visa. Please visit our appointment booking page to make an appointment with one of our lawyers or consultants; alternatively, you can call our offices at +1-604-767-9529.
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