Study Permit Issues
Understanding study permit requirements, violations, work permissions, and restoration of status.
Last verified: 2026-04-03
What the Law Says
IRPA s.30 authorizes issuance of study authorization (study permits). IRPR s.215-221 specify study permit requirements including proof of financial support, letter of acceptance, and medical requirements. Section 222 establishes the process for restoration of status. Section 186 permits international students to work while studying up to 20 hours per week during school sessions and full-time during breaks. These provisions regulate international student status and work eligibility.
What This Means for You
If you are an international student, your study permit comes with specific conditions you must follow. If you violate these conditions, your permit may become invalid and you could become removable from Canada. However, if your status becomes invalid, you may be able to restore it by applying with fees and establishing that you were in valid status immediately before the violation, among other requirements.
Study permits allow you to work up to 20 hours per week during school sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, provided your institution and program qualify. You must maintain enrollment and satisfy any other conditions stated on your permit. If you stop studying, take a leave of absence, or change institutions without authorization, your permit status may be affected.
Real Example
An international student had a study permit to pursue a bachelor's degree. Due to health issues, the student took a leave of absence for one semester. The study permit became invalid because the student was not enrolled full-time in a recognized institution. The student eventually recovered and returned to studies the following semester. By that time, the study permit had expired and had been invalidated due to the leave of absence. The student discovered the status violation when trying to apply for a work permit. The student consulted with an immigration lawyer and applied for restoration of status, submitting evidence of enrollment in a recognized program, proof of valid status immediately before the violation, and payment of the restoration fee. IRCC considered the application and determined whether restoration was appropriate based on the student's circumstances.
What Options Exist
- 1Review your study permit conditions carefully. Ensure you understand the conditions about studying, working, and your approved institution.
- 2Maintain enrollment in your approved program and institution. If you need to change institutions or take a leave of absence, consult with the institution's international student office first.
- 3Work within the authorized hours. International students may work up to 20 hours per week during school sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, provided the work is authorized.
- 4If you have violated your study permit conditions, apply for restoration of status as soon as you realize the violation. Include documentation showing you were in valid status before the violation and that you have returned to authorized status.
- 5If your permit has become invalid and you cannot restore it, you may apply for a Temporary Resident Permit if you have compelling reasons to remain in Canada and are otherwise admissible.
- 6If facing removal due to a study permit violation, seek legal advice about whether restoration is possible or whether other remedies exist, such as a stay of proceedings.
- 7Document all attendance, enrollment confirmation, and work activities to establish that you have been complying with permit conditions.
- 8Maintain financial records showing you have met any financial support requirements for your study permit.
Permit Conditions
Study permits typically include the following conditions:
Violating study permit conditions may result in loss of status and removal proceedings. However, restoration of status options may be available in many circumstances.
Where to Appeal
Restoration of Status Application
Apply to IRCC to restore status if it became invalid due to studying conditions not being met. Must be in valid status before violation.
Temporary Resident Permit
Apply for TRP if you cannot restore status but have compelling reasons to remain in Canada. Available even if inadmissible.
Judicial Review (Federal Court)
Challenge a refusal of restoration or TRP application on grounds of legal error or procedural unfairness.
Immigration Appeal Division
Not available for study permit issues, but may be available if facing removal if you are a permanent resident or have PR family members.
Key Statutes
When Should You Consult an Immigration Professional?
This platform is designed to help individuals understand their immigration rights, gather documentation, and navigate processes independently. Many routine applications and renewals can be handled without professional assistance.
The most effective time to engage an immigration lawyer or licensed RCIC is when facing a refusal, removal order, or complex application. A professional can review your complete file and provide strategic advice before you file an appeal or respond to enforcement action.
By gathering documentation and understanding the relevant statutes first, consultations become focused strategic reviews rather than costly fact-gathering sessions.
Read our full guide: Working with an Immigration Professional →
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Cite This Page
MyImmigrantRights.ca. "Study Permit Issues." Accessed April 3, 2026. https://myimmigrantrights.ca/issues/study-permit-issues
Written by the MyImmigrantRights.ca team, based on comprehensive research of Canadian immigration law, IRPA, the Citizenship Act, and IRCC policy guidance.