Extend Your Stay to Finish Your Studies
Your Canadian education is an investment in your future, but sometimes, completing your program takes longer than expected. Whether you changed your major, took a semester off, or decided to pursue a second degree, you must ensure your legal status in Canada remains valid. Allowing your study permit to expire while you are still studying is a serious immigration violation that can lead to deportation and ruin your chances of future Permanent Residence.
At Alliance Immigration, we help international students smoothly extend their study permits before time runs out. We understand the strict deadlines and the specific documents IRCC requires to prove you are actively pursuing your education. Our experts handle the extension process quickly and accurately, allowing you to focus on your exams instead of stressing over immigration paperwork.
Why trust us with your Permit Extension?
Timely Filing
We ensure your application is submitted well before your current permit expires to maintain your "Maintained Status."
Document Review
Complete check of your transcripts and enrollment letters to prove active student status.
Passport Renewals
Guidance on aligning your study permit extension with your passport validity.
Error-Free Processing
We avoid the common mistakes that lead to extension delays or refusals.
Future Planning
Strategic advice on how your extension impacts your upcoming Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply to extend my study permit?
IRCC strongly recommends applying at least 30 days before your current study permit expires. However, applying even earlier (60 to 90 days) is safer in case there are processing delays.
What is "Maintained Status" (formerly Implied Status)?
If you apply to extend your permit before it expires, you can legally remain in Canada under “maintained status.” You can continue studying and working under the same conditions of your original permit until a final decision is made on your new application.
What happens if my passport expires before my studies finish?
Canada will not issue a study permit past your passport’s expiration date. You must renew your passport first, and then apply to extend your study permit to cover the rest of your academic program.
Do I need to provide new biometrics for an extension?
If you are applying from within Canada, your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are usually valid for 10 years. You typically do not need to give them again for an extension if they are still within that 10-year validity period.
Can I leave Canada while my extension is processing?
Yes, you can leave, but it is risky. If you re-enter Canada before a decision is made, you may be allowed back in as a temporary resident, but you cannot resume studying or working until the new permit is approved. It is generally advised to wait for the new permit before traveling internationally.
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