As an international student in Canada, your study permit is essential for staying and studying legally in the country. If your study permit is about to expire and you need more time to complete your studies, it’s crucial to extend it before it expires. Failing to do so could impact your ability to remain in Canada legally. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to extend your study permit and continue your education in Canada without interruptions.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility for Extension
Before you start the application process, it’s important to confirm that you are eligible to extend your study permit. To qualify for a study permit extension, you must meet these requirements:
- Full-time Enrollment: You must be enrolled as a full-time student in a recognized Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Valid Status: Your current study permit must be valid when you apply for an extension.
- Timely Application: You should apply at least 30 days before your current study permit expires.
If your study permit has already expired, you may have to leave Canada and apply for a new permit from outside the country.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
To apply for an extension, you’ll need to provide several supporting documents. These include:
- Proof of Enrollment: A letter from your school confirming that you are still enrolled as a full-time student.
- Financial Proof: Evidence that you have enough money to support yourself while studying in Canada. This can include bank statements, scholarship offers, or a letter of financial support.
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for the entire period you plan to stay in Canada.
- Current Study Permit: A copy of your existing study permit.
- Explanation Letter: A letter explaining why you need an extension, such as the need to complete a program or take additional courses.
- Medical Exam Results (if applicable): Depending on your country of origin or recent travel history, a medical exam may be required.
Ensure that all documents are current and meet the necessary requirements.
Step 3: Submit Your Application Online
Once you have all the required documents, you can apply for a study permit extension online. Follow these steps:
- Create an Online Account: If you haven’t already, create an account with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This will allow you to submit your application and track its status.
- Fill Out the Application Form (IMM 5709): Complete the form for extending your study permit. Make sure all information is accurate and up to date.
- Upload Your Documents: Upload all required supporting documents through the IRCC portal. This includes your proof of enrollment, financial documents, and explanation letter.
- Pay the Application Fee: The application fee for a study permit extension is CAD 150. Payment can be made online through the IRCC portal.
- Submit the Application: After reviewing your application and ensuring all information is correct, submit it through the IRCC portal.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for the IRCC to process your extension request. Processing times vary depending on the volume of applications, so it’s essential to apply well in advance.
- Check Application Status: You can check the status of your application online through your IRCC account.
- Biometrics (if needed): You may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) if this is your first time applying for a permit extension. Check the IRCC portal for any updates on additional requests.
Step 5: Maintain Legal Status in Canada
While waiting for your application to be processed, you can stay in Canada under what is called “implied status.” This means you are allowed to stay in Canada legally while your study permit extension is being processed, as long as you applied before your permit expired.
However, you are not allowed to work or study beyond your current permit conditions until your extension is approved. Once you receive your new permit, you’ll be able to resume your studies and any work activities (if eligible).
Step 6: Receive Your Extended Study Permit
If your study permit extension is approved, you’ll receive a new permit. The new permit will reflect the duration of your extended studies. Make sure to:
- Check the Details: Review your new study permit to ensure that all information is accurate.
- Stay Compliant: Ensure you comply with all the conditions of your new study permit, including full-time enrollment and maintaining financial support.
Step 7: What to Do if Your Application is Denied
In some cases, an application for a study permit extension may be denied. If this happens, you’ll receive a letter from IRCC explaining the reasons for the decision. You can either:
- Appeal the Decision: If you believe the decision was made in error, you can appeal it with the IRCC.
- Leave Canada: If no appeal is possible, you must leave Canada immediately and reapply for a new permit from outside the country.