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Extension & Renewal
Extend Your Study Permit in Canada
Continue your educational journey with a seamless study permit extension. Apply at least 3 months before your current permit expires.
Processing Time
4 months (120 days) - Apply at least 3-4 months before expiry
Government Fee
$150 CAD
Biometrics Fee
$85 CAD (if required - valid for 10 years)
Total Cost
$235 CAD (if biometrics required)
Extension Overview
About Study Permit Extension
A study permit extension allows international students to continue their studies in Canada beyond their current permit's expiry date. It's essential to apply for an extension before your current study permit expires to maintain your legal status in Canada and avoid complications with your studies.
You must apply for an extension at least 30 days before your current study permit expires, but we recommend applying 3-4 months in advance to account for processing times. If you continue studying while waiting for a decision on your extension application submitted before expiry, you have implied status and can continue your studies under the same conditions.
The extension process requires proof of continued enrollment, sufficient financial support, and maintaining full-time student status (unless exempt). With proper preparation and documentation, most students successfully extend their study permits and continue their Canadian education.
Important Deadlines
- Apply at least 30 days before your current study permit expires (90-120 days recommended)
- Submit biometrics within 30 days of receiving the biometrics instruction letter
- Respond to any IRCC document requests within the specified timeframe (usually 30-60 days)
- If your permit expires before you apply, you have 90 days to restore your status with additional fees
Free Extension Assessment
Not sure if you qualify for an extension? Our RCIC-licensed consultants will review your situation and guide you through the process.
Book Free ConsultationCheck Processing TimesOriginal Application InfoRCIC License: R515110
Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet these requirements to qualify for Study Permit Extension.
Hold a valid study permit or have applied for an extension before expiry (implied status)
Continue to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Maintain full-time student status (unless in your last semester or have an exemption)
Make satisfactory academic progress toward completing your program
Have sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members
Continue to meet all study permit conditions and Canadian immigration requirements
Documentation
Required Documents
Gather these documents before starting your extension application.
Valid passport (must be valid for the duration of your intended stay)
Current study permit and/or visa documents
Letter of acceptance or enrollment confirmation from your DLI
Official transcripts showing satisfactory academic progress
Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsorship documents)
Updated passport-style photographs (if applying by paper)
Proof of payment for government fees ($150 CAD)
Custodian declaration (if under 17 and not from certain countries)
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these steps to successfully extend your status in Canada.
1
Check Eligibility and Gather Documents
Verify you meet all requirements and collect necessary documents including your letter of acceptance, transcripts, proof of funds, and valid passport. Ensure your DLI is still designated and you're maintaining full-time status.
2
Create or Access Your IRCC Account
Log in to your IRCC secure account or create a new one if you don't have one. This portal will be used to submit your application and track its progress.
3
Complete the Online Application
Fill out the application form (IMM 5709) online through your IRCC account. Answer all questions accurately and provide detailed information about your studies and financial situation.
4
Upload Supporting Documents
Scan and upload all required documents in the specified formats (PDF, JPEG). Ensure documents are clear, complete, and meet IRCC file size requirements. Include your enrollment confirmation and proof of funds.
5
Pay Government Fees
Pay the $150 study permit extension fee and $85 biometrics fee (if applicable) online using a credit card or debit card through the IRCC portal.
6
Submit Biometrics (If Required)
If you receive a biometrics instruction letter, book an appointment at a Service Canada location within 30 days and provide your fingerprints and photograph.
7
Track Your Application and Respond to Requests
Monitor your application status through your IRCC account. Respond promptly to any additional document requests. You have implied status while waiting for a decision if you applied before expiry.
Common Pitfalls
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes and avoid these common errors when applying for an extension.
Applying too late - Submit at least 3 months before expiry to avoid implied status complications
Not maintaining full-time student status - Ensure you're enrolled in the required course load
Insufficient proof of funds - Show enough financial support for tuition and living expenses
Outdated letter of acceptance - Use a current enrollment confirmation, not your original acceptance letter
Incomplete transcripts - Include all semesters and ensure they show satisfactory progress
Pro Tip
Work with an RCIC to avoid these common mistakes. Our consultants have helped thousands successfully extend their status. We review your application before submission to catch errors and maximize approval chances.
Costs
Extension Fees
Government fees for Study Permit Extension applications.
Government Fee
$150 CADBiometrics
$85 CAD (if required - valid for 10 years)Total
$235 CAD (if biometrics required)Fees are subject to change. Check IRCC website for current rates.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Study Permit Extension
When should I apply for my study permit extension?
You should apply at least 30 days before your current study permit expires, but we strongly recommend applying 3-4 months in advance. The current processing time is approximately 4 months (120 days). If you submit your extension application before your current permit expires, you will have implied status, allowing you to continue studying under the same conditions while waiting for a decision.
What happens if my study permit expires before I apply for an extension?
If your study permit expires before you apply for an extension, you lose your legal status in Canada. However, you can apply to restore your status within 90 days of expiry. Restoration requires paying an additional $350 restoration fee on top of the regular $150 extension fee. During this time, you cannot study until your status is restored. To avoid this situation, always apply before your permit expires.
Can I continue studying while waiting for my extension decision?
Yes, if you applied for your extension before your current study permit expired, you have implied status. This means you can continue studying under the same conditions as your original permit while waiting for a decision. You should continue attending classes, maintain full-time status, and follow all study permit conditions. However, if you leave Canada during this time, you may not be able to return until your new permit is approved.
How much money do I need to show for proof of funds?
You need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your extended studies. As a general guideline, IRCC requires approximately $10,000 CAD per year for living expenses (outside Quebec) or $11,000 CAD in Quebec, plus full tuition fees. If you have family members with you, you'll need to show additional funds. Acceptable proof includes bank statements, scholarship letters, GIC certificates, or proof of a Canadian bank account.
Do I need a new letter of acceptance to extend my study permit?
Not exactly. If you're continuing in the same program at the same institution, you need a current enrollment confirmation or letter from your school verifying that you're registered for the upcoming semester. This is different from your original acceptance letter. The letter should confirm your active enrollment, expected graduation date, and that you're maintaining satisfactory progress. If you're changing programs or schools, you'll need a new acceptance letter from your new Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Other Extension Types
Visitor Visa Extension
18 months (540 days) for online applications - Apply well in advance
Stay longer in Canada with a visitor record extension. Apply at least 30 days before your authorized stay expires.
Learn More
Work Permit Extension
15 months (450 days) - Apply at least 4 months before expiry
Continue your Canadian employment with a work permit extension. Apply at least 4 months before your current permit expires.
Learn More
Status Restoration
10 months (300 days) - You must wait in Canada during processing without work/study authorization
Regain your legal status within 90 days of expiry. Act quickly to restore your visitor, student, or worker status in Canada.
Learn More
Ready to Extend Your Stay in Canada?
Don't risk losing your status. Book a consultation with our RCIC-licensed consultants today. We'll help you prepare a complete application and maximize your chances of approval.
RCIC License: R515110 | Member of CICC