Study Permit Expired? Step-by-Step Guide to Restore Your Status as an International Student

If your study permit has expired and you are still in Canada, you may be feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. The good news is that you may be eligible to restore your status as an international student, provided you act within the required timelines and meet specific conditions.

In this guide, we explain what restoration of status means, who is eligible, how to apply, and what steps you must take to stay in compliance with Canadian immigration law.

What Does It Mean to Restore Your Status?

Restoration of status is a process that allows temporary residents in Canada (such as international students, workers, or visitors) to regain their legal status after it has expired. If your study permit expired less than 90 days ago, you may still be able to apply for restoration.

This process does not guarantee approval, but it provides you with a second chance to stay in Canada legally and resume your studies.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for Restoration of Student Status?

You may be eligible to restore your status as an international student if:

• • Your study permit expired less than 90 days ago
    
  • You have stopped studying or complying with the conditions of your permit (for example, switching schools without notifying IRCC)
    
  • You continue to meet the original requirements for a study permit
    
  • You have not violated other conditions of your stay (such as working without authorization)
    

If your permit expired more than 90 days ago, you are no longer eligible to apply for restoration and must leave Canada.

Consequences of Not Restoring Your Status

Failing to restore your status within the 90-day period can lead to:

• • Inadmissibility to Canada
    
  • Difficulty applying for future permits or visas
    
  • Removal from Canada
    
  • Delays in your academic and immigration journey
    

Step-by-Step Guide to Restore Your Status as a Student

Step 1: Stop Studying Immediately

Once your study permit expires, you must stop attending classes. Continuing to study without valid status is a violation of immigration rules and can negatively impact your future applications.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

You will need:

• • A Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
    
  • Proof of financial support (e.g. bank statements, tuition receipts)
    
  • A valid passport
    
  • Any previous immigration documents (expired study permit, old permits)
    
  • Explanation letter for restoration (why your status expired and why you should be reinstated)
    

Step 3: Apply Online

To restore your status, you must:

• • Apply through your IRCC online account
    
  • Use the form IMM 5709: Application to Change Conditions, Extend Stay or Remain in Canada as a Student
    
  • Select “Restore my status as a student”
    

Pay the required fees:

• • • Restoration of status: $239.75 CAD
    • New study permit application: $150.00 CAD
    • Total fees: $389.75 CAD
      

Step 4: Write a Strong Explanation Letter

Your explanation letter is a crucial part of the application. In this letter, you should:

• • Acknowledge that your study permit expired
    
  • Clearly explain why your permit expired (e.g. medical issues, misunderstanding, administrative delays)
    
  • Confirm that you intend to continue full-time studies at a DLI
    
  • Provide evidence of your intent to comply with all immigration rules going forward
    

A sincere, well-structured letter can help convince the IRCC officer that your restoration should be granted.

Step 5: Submit and Wait for a Decision

Once your application is submitted, you must wait for IRCC to process it. During this time:

• • You must not study or work
    
  • You are allowed to remain in Canada, but only as an applicant with pending status
    
  • Processing times may vary depending on your location and IRCC workload
    

What Happens If Your Restoration Is Approved?

If IRCC approves your application:

• • You will receive a new study permit
    
  • Your status will be officially restored
    
  • You can resume your studies immediately
    
  • You may also regain eligibility to work part-time (if you meet the conditions)
    

What Happens If Your Restoration Is Refused?

If your application is refused:

• • You will be required to leave Canada
    
  • You may still be eligible to apply for a new study permit from outside Canada
    
  • Your refusal could impact future applications, so it is important to understand the reasons and address them carefully
    

Tips to Avoid Losing Status Again

• • Monitor your study permit expiry date and apply for extensions at least 30 days before it expires
    
  • Update IRCC if you change schools or programs
    
  • Always remain enrolled and actively studying
    
  • Work only within authorized limits
    
  • Maintain valid health insurance and financial support
    

Final Thoughts: Restore Your Status with Confidence

Losing your study permit status can feel like a major setback, but with proper guidance and timely action, restoration is possible. It is essential to act quickly, submit a strong application, and follow all IRCC rules going forward.

If your study permit has expired and you are unsure how to proceed, consider speaking with the licensed immigration professionals at Can X Global. We can help you assess your eligibility, prepare your restoration application, and guide you every step of the way to stay compliant and continue your studies in Canada.