Canada welcomes thousands of temporary residents each year, whether students pursuing higher education, professionals boosting the workforce, or visitors. Yet, each resident’s journey here relies on a formal foundation: maintaining valid status. This essential step isn't merely bureaucratic—it’s the bridge that ensures individuals can continue their studies, work, and life in Canada seamlessly.
Without renewal, though, temporary residents risk losing their status, which can lead to interrupted careers, missed educational opportunities, and, ultimately, an unplanned departure from Canada.
Whether you’re a student, worker or visitor on permit in Canada, knowing about on-time “Status Restoration” is crucial. This blog will unpack everything you need to know about status restoration, including who qualifies, how to apply, and what happens if you miss the deadline.
Status restoration is a process that allows foreign nationals to reclaim their legal status in Canada after it has expired.
When a temporary resident— a worker, student, or visitor—fails to renew their permit before expiration, they technically lose their legal standing. The Canadian government, in such a case, provides a 90-day grace period during which eligible individuals can apply to restore their status and continue their stay under specific conditions.
Status restoration is a one-time opportunity to regain compliance, but it doesn’t grant applicants permission to continue working or studying until the new status is granted. Instead, restoration merely prevents removal from Canada and offers a chance to rectify an unintentional lapse.
For international students on study permit, who have completed their study and wants to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), needs to apply for the restoration status of a new study permit, and apply for PGWP along with it.
Losing status often results from common, preventable factors. Here are some frequent reasons why temporary residents may find themselves needing restoration:
Status restoration isn’t open to everyone. Only certain individuals are eligible, such as:
However, restoration applicants must submit their applications within the 90-day grace period after losing status.
Restoring temporary status requires precise documentation and application steps. Here’s a breakdown of how to apply:
The 90-day status restoration rule allows applicants a window to apply for restoration starting from the day they lose their status. It’s vital to note that this is a strict period. Failing to apply within this window will lead to removal proceedings. Unlike regular renewals, restoration is an exception and will only be granted once. If granted, applicants regain legal status, but their new permit might have different conditions depending on the IRCC’s decision.
Can I work while my status restoration application is in process?
No. Once you lose your status, you must stop working immediately until your restoration application is approved. Continuing work or study without authorization could lead to further complications and potential denial of your restoration request.
What will happen if I fail to apply for the status renewal within the 90-day period?
Failing to apply within the 90 days results in losing any possibility of restoration. You will be required to leave Canada and, in some cases, reapply from outside Canada if you wish to return under a new permit.
Can I apply for a different permit while restoring my residency status?
Yes. You can apply for a different permit type during the restoration process. For instance, if you held a study permit but intend to start working, you could apply for a work permit. However, this is subject to eligibility and the usual application requirements for that new permit type.
Navigating the complexities of temporary residence status restoration can feel daunting, but understanding the steps and requirements equips you with the confidence to act promptly.
Don’t let permit expiration hinder your Canadian experience. Timely action and clear awareness of deadlines can help you stay on track, enabling you to focus on the opportunities that brought you to Canada in the first place.
However, remember restoration is a chance, not a guarantee. Treat it with the urgency and care it deserves to avoid interruptions in your Canadian journey.
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