Studying in Canada requires more than staying enrolled in school. International students must maintain appropriate immigration status and comply with their study permit conditions. An expired study permit can interrupt studies, employment and longer-term immigration plans. Understanding the difference between an extension and restoration is therefore essential.
Extension versus restoration
An extension is normally requested before an existing study permit expires. An eligible application submitted on time may allow a student to remain in Canada under maintained status and continue studying under the applicable conditions while IRCC decides the application. Work authorization depends on the student's circumstances and conditions.
Restoration is different. A person who has lost temporary resident status may be eligible to apply to restore it, generally within 90 days of losing status. Submitting a restoration application does not itself restore status or authorize studying or working while waiting for a decision. Restoration is not guaranteed.
What should you do if your permit expired?
First, confirm the expiry date and whether you submitted an eligible extension application before that date. Do not assume that the printed expiry date alone determines your current status if an earlier application is pending. Review your IRCC correspondence and application history.
If you lost status, stop studying and working unless you have another valid authorization. Check whether you are still within the applicable restoration period. Contact your school about the academic implications and seek advice if your situation involves dependants, travel, an earlier refusal or a complex immigration history.
Restoration eligibility and documents
An application generally needs to establish that you qualify for restoration and meet the requirements for the new study permit. Depending on your case, prepare your passport, prior study permit, enrolment or acceptance documentation, academic records, evidence of finances and a factual explanation of how the status loss occurred. Additional documentation may be required based on current IRCC rules and your circumstances. Being enrolled does not automatically establish valid immigration status.
Can you study or work while waiting?
Generally no. A restoration request does not give you maintained status. You must wait until the necessary status and authorization are granted before resuming activities requiring a study or work permit. This may affect course registration, work income and academic progress.
Fees and 2026 measures
The IRCC fee schedule previously identified restoration of temporary resident status at CAD $246.25 and a study permit at CAD $150, for a combined CAD $396.25. Confirm the latest fees directly on IRCC's official website before submitting, because fees can change. Biometrics and other costs may apply.
Special temporary public policies may provide different restoration windows to people directly affected by qualifying natural disasters in Canada. Such measures have specific eligibility requirements; they are not a general extension for everyone whose permit expired. Check the precise policy wording and validity dates before relying on it.
What about accompanying family?
A spouse or child may hold a separate temporary resident status with its own expiry date and conditions. Do not assume that restoring one person's status automatically restores another's. Review each family member's immigration situation individually.
If restoration is refused
A refusal can affect the applicant's ability to remain in Canada and may require departure or another appropriate legal step. The available options depend on the decision and the individual's full history. Seek case-specific guidance rather than submitting the same application again without addressing the refusal reasons.
Practical prevention checklist
Check your study permit expiry date regularly. Start planning an extension well in advance, review IRCC's current instructions, keep proof of timely submissions, monitor your account for correspondence, and consult your school if your program or enrolment changes. IRCC generally recommends applying for an extension at least 30 days before expiry; earlier preparation is often sensible.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 90-day restoration period an extension of my study permit? No. It is generally a period in which an eligible person may request restoration after losing status.
Does a pending restoration application allow me to study? Generally no. A restoration application does not itself authorize study or work.
Can I leave Canada while restoration is pending? Travel can complicate the application and re-entry. Obtain advice before travelling.
Can I switch to visitor status? Depending on circumstances, there may be other immigration options, but visitor status does not authorize work or most studies. Review the correct pathway for your circumstances.
Final thoughts
Missing an immigration deadline can affect education, finances and future plans. Early action and a complete, accurate assessment of status are critical. Alexandria Immigration Services helps students understand their options and prepare applications tailored to their circumstances.
Your Future. Our Commitment - Canada's Immigration Learning Centre
General educational information only; not individualized legal advice. Verify current rules, fees and public policies with IRCC before publishing or applying.
