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Extensions and status · Canada
Extend or renew your status in Canada.
Visitor records, study permit extensions and work permit renewals. Understand the deadline, the right application and what you may do while waiting.
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Start with your current immigration status
Temporary residents may be in Canada as visitors, students or workers. Each category has different extension and change-of-status rules. Your visa, eTA, passport and status document have different roles, so first identify the date and conditions that govern your stay.
Bring your current permit or visitor record, entry details, passport and any applications already submitted. We can help build a timeline around your actual circumstances rather than an assumed expiry date.
Three common extension routes
Visitor record
For an eligible person seeking to remain longer as a visitor or change from worker/student to visitor.
Study permit extension
For students who remain eligible and need time to continue their studies. School and program changes require careful review.
Work permit extension
For workers who qualify for continued authorization under the appropriate employer-specific or open permit category.
IRCC recommends applying for visitor or work permit extensions at least 30 days before expiry. This planning recommendation does not replace the requirement to submit a qualifying application before your status expires if relying on maintained status.
Official guidance: work permit extensions.
Official guidance: visitor record timing.
Maintained status: staying and working are different questions
A qualifying extension submitted before expiry may allow you to remain in Canada while IRCC makes a decision. Whether you may continue working or studying depends on the application, your existing conditions and the applicable rules. Applying to become a visitor does not extend a work permit’s work authorization.
Travel outside Canada can affect the practical position. Get advice before leaving or changing employers while an application is pending. Keep the submission confirmation and a copy of the application.
Official guidance: visitor maintained status.
If your status has already expired
Do not assume an extension and restoration are the same process. Many restoration applications must be made within 90 days of losing status, but eligibility and any specific exception need careful review. The application and fees must fit the situation.
Workers normally cannot work while restoration is being processed. If a deadline may have passed, seek advice promptly and provide the exact expiry, submission and refusal dates. Approval is not guaranteed.
Official guidance: restoration for workers.
Changing from visitor to student or worker
Being physically in Canada does not automatically make you eligible to apply under an in-Canada process. We assess which application route is permitted, what authorization is needed and how your existing stay will be managed. Do not start work or study simply because you have submitted a new application.
For related planning, see study permit applications, work permits and visiting Canada.
How Tudor House can help
We focus on explaining your options clearly and preparing evidence that reflects your actual circumstances. Your plan should be understandable, realistic and tailored to the application you need.
- Review your immigration history and the route that fits your circumstances.
- Identify the evidence, deadlines and practical risks before preparing an application.
- Explain the agreed service scope and professional fees before you decide to proceed.
A free discovery call is an introduction to your situation. For detailed advice, we can explain the consultation and representation options available.
Common questions
Does renewing my visa extend my status?
A visa is a travel document. Extending your authorized stay generally requires the appropriate status application. We review both separately.
Can I keep working if I apply for a visitor record?
A visitor application does not extend work authorization beyond your existing permit. Continued work requires its own legal basis.
What should I send for an urgent assessment?
Your passport, current or expired permit, entry information, all submission confirmations and any refusal letters. Exact dates are essential to assess available options.
Your consultant
Clear advice from Chris.
I’m Chris Brown, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant. I help people understand their options, prepare clear evidence, and make informed decisions about their Canadian immigration applications.
We work online with clients across Canada and internationally. You can discuss your circumstances and next steps directly with me.
RCIC #R528923 · Verify my licence with the College
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Let’s discuss your next step.
Tell Chris about your plans and the questions you need answered. Start with a free discovery call.
Professional fees and service scope are explained before you decide to proceed.