Extend before expiry; restoration is not an extension.
- 01
The printed expiry is usually the program length plus 90 days, but early written completion can make the permit invalid 90 days later. Calculate the legal date instead of relying only on the card.
- 02
IRCC recommends applying at least 30 days before expiry. The legal requirement is to submit a complete extension before status expires.
- 03
If a complete extension is filed on time and the student stays in Canada, maintained status can allow continued study under the same conditions while IRCC decides.
- 04
Travel during maintained status can affect the ability to resume study on return. Carry the permit, filing proof and valid TRV/eTA and review the individual re-entry plan.
- 05
If status expires before filing, stop studying. Restoration is normally requested within 90 days, requires explanation and fees, is discretionary and does not authorize study while pending.
- 06
If continuing in Québec, renew the CAQ early enough to support the federal extension.
Maintain student status and keep a paper trail after arrival.
Enrolment and progress
Remain enrolled at the DLI named in the permit and actively pursue studies. Preserve enrolment letters, transcripts, attendance and authorized-leave records.
Authorized leave
A DLI-authorized leave is generally limited to 150 days for compliance purposes. On- and off-campus work is not allowed during an authorized leave.
Contact and permit conditions
Update the school and IRCC where required and obey work, medical, level, DLI and expiry conditions printed on the permit.
Stopping or finishing early
Stopping studies can end work authorization. The study permit normally becomes invalid 90 days after written program completion even if a later date is printed.
Travel document
A study permit is not a visa. Re-entry normally requires a valid passport plus TRV or eTA, and the final admission decision remains with CBSA.
A complete study-permit file connects eligibility, study logic and evidence.
Letter of acceptance
Use a valid LOA from the exact DLI/campus and respect school-verification instructions. Admission alone does not establish immigration eligibility.
PAL/TAL or exemption
Most applicants need a valid provincial/territorial attestation. Important exemptions include preschool/K–12 and, since January 1, 2026, degree-granting master’s and doctoral study at a public DLI.
Québec CAQ
Most Québec students need the provincial CAQ/attestation before the federal filing; the study-permit and CAQ dates and program must align.
Funds
Show first-year tuition, current IRCC living costs for every accompanying family member, travel and a credible source/continuation plan. Explain loans, sponsors and recent deposits.
Study plan
Explain academic progression, why this program/school/Canada, career value, gaps, prior education, language readiness, finances and temporary compliance.
Admissibility
Identity, immigration history, prior refusals, criminality, medical requirements, family information and translations must be complete and consistent.
Budget government fees and the real cost of the file.
Tuition deposits, PAL/TAL or CAQ costs, medicals, police certificates, translations, VAC/courier, insurance and travel are separate. Re-check the live fee list before filing.
| Item | Current federal fee (CAN$) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Study permit or extension | $150 per person | A family member’s visa, work or study application is separate |
| Restore student status and obtain a new study permit | $396.25 | $246.25 restoration plus $150 study permit; restoration is discretionary |
| Biometrics | $85 per person / eligible family maximum $170 | Only where required; validity and exemption rules apply |
Official sources & application
The practical answer is in this guide; use these links to verify live changes and apply officially.
Ghasedak explains the eligibility, evidence, process and important cautions in plain language. Because laws, forms, fees and filing methods can change, also check the live official instructions on the day you submit. This is general information, not individual legal advice.