As an international student in Canada, the expiry date of your study visa should certainly be tattooed on your forehead! It informs you when to stop studying and leave Canada.
The expiration date can be seen in the top right corner on your permit. This date is typically equivalent to the duration of your academic program plus 90 days. The additional 90-day period allows you to plan your departure or stay in Canada for longer. The 90-day term begins on the date you get official notification from your institution that you have completed the program.
It is suggested that you begin the extension process three months before the expiration of your study permit. Remember that you cannot extend your study permission beyond the expiry date of your passport, so make sure all of your travel documents are in order.
If your study permit is about to expire, consider these scenarios:
Scenario 1: You’ve chosen to pursue your studies in Canada
In this situation, you will have to extend your study permit. You must apply for a study permit extension within 90 days of completing your previous program.
Before you apply for a study visa extension, ensure that your school is on the IRCC’s Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) list.
If you have decided to continue your education in Canada, an N&N counsellor can assist you in finding a school and program that fits your budget. Your counsellor will also assist you in applying for a study permit extension. N&N does not charge our students a fee for our services.
Scenario 2: You intend to stay in Canada, but you are no longer studying
In this scenario, you have two choices:
1. If you have completed your studies and are eligible, you may apply for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP). To learn more about the PGWP application, visit our blog “Important Reminders about the PGWP”.
2. To modify your status, apply for a guest visa.
If your visitor visa has expired and you wish to leave and return to Canada, you must apply for a new visitor visa.
Scenario 3: You plan to travel outside Canada and your permit will expire while you are traveling
Students must request for a study permission extension before traveling.
In most situations, you can complete the application to extend your study permit online. The price for Study Permit Extension is $150. If your biometrics have expired, it will cost an extra $85 to resubmit them.
If your study permission has already expired, keep in mind that you will be unable to study until your student status is restored.
If you apply before your permit expires, you will be able to stay in Canada under the same conditions as your current study permit until the IRCC makes a decision.
If you want to continue your studies in Canada and apply for a study permit extension, consider making an appointment with an N&N counsellor.
What can an N&N counsellor do for me?
Find the best college program for your job interest and budget.
Ensure that the institution you apply to gives you a PGWP.
Manage the complete application process from beginning to end.
Guide you through the visa change/extension process after accepting your admission offer.
