Study Permit Has Expired
Understanding what happens when your study permit expires, options to continue studying, and how to restore your status.
Last verified: 2026-04-03
Context and Setup
You are an international student in Canada studying at a designated learning institution (DLI). Your study permit has expired, and you are unsure what this means for your legal status. You may still be enrolled in your program, or you may have already graduated. You are concerned about whether you can continue studying, work, or remain in Canada.
Allowing your study permit to expire does not immediately make you inadmissible or subject to removal, but it does affect your legal status and your ability to work or study. There are options to restore your status or obtain a new permit if you wish to continue your studies or transition to a work permit.
The Conversation
University International Student Office
Hi, we notice your study permit expired last month. You need to contact Immigration Canada to restore your status or apply for a new permit if you want to continue studying.
The university's international student office is correct. A study permit is required to attend a Canadian school. Once it expires, you may be out of status.
You
But I'm still in my final semester. Does my permit expiring affect my enrollment? Can I still finish my program?
That is a good question. In some cases, students have a grace period to complete their studies (typically 90 days after the permit expires under IRPR s.182), but this depends on when you finished your studies relative to your permit expiration.
Immigration Consultant (hypothetical)
Let me clarify: if you completed your studies before your permit expired, you are out of status now. If you are still enrolled, you may have a 90-day grace period after the permit expired to complete your program, but you cannot enroll in a new program while out of status.
The grace period is set out in IRPR s.222. Students who finish their program before their permit expires have 180 days after completion to either leave Canada, apply for a restoration of status, or transition to another status (e.g., work permit, permanent residence).
You
I have a job offer from an employer in Canada. Can I switch to a work permit?
Yes. If you have a job offer and your employer is willing to sponsor you, you may apply for a work permit. However, you typically must apply from outside Canada. There may be exceptions if you apply for restoration of status and a work permit simultaneously.
Immigration Consultant (hypothetical)
You have several options: (1) apply for a restoration of study permit if you want to continue studying; (2) apply for a work permit if you have a job offer; (3) apply for permanent residence if you meet the criteria (e.g., Canadian Experience Class); or (4) apply for a restoration of status while in Canada if you became out of status unintentionally.
You
What is the difference between restoration of status and a new permit application?
Restoration of status (IRPA s.64) acknowledges that you became out of status and asks to be restored. A new permit application is for a different status entirely (e.g., switching from student to worker). Restoration is typically faster and does not require you to leave Canada.
What It Means for Your Status
Immediate Implications of Permit Expiry
Once your study permit expires, you no longer have authorization to study in Canada. You become out of status unless you are a citizen, permanent resident, or have another valid permit. However, you are not automatically deported. You have the right to take steps to restore your status or apply for another form of authorization.
The 90-Day Grace Period (IRPR s.222)
Students have up to 90 days after their study permit expires to complete their studies if they are still enrolled. This grace period applies only if you are actively enrolled. Once the grace period ends or your studies are complete, you must take action to restore your status or apply for another permit.
The 180-Day Window After Graduation (IRPR s.182)
If you completed your studies before your permit expired, you have 180 days from the date you completed your program to either leave Canada, apply for a new permit (e.g., work permit), or apply for permanent residence. During this 180-day window, you may be out of status but should apply for restoration or a new permit promptly.
Work Authorization During the Grace Period
Even during the grace period, you do not have work authorization without an explicit work permit. If you allowed your study permit to expire, you cannot work in Canada during the grace period unless you obtained a separate work permit or have a letter of authorization for study-related co-op work.
What to Document After Permit Expires
- The original study permit (with the expiration date clearly visible).
- A letter from your school confirming your enrollment status at the time the permit expired.
- A letter from your school confirming the date you completed your program (if applicable).
- Proof of residence in Canada (utility bills, lease, tuition receipts with an address).
- Proof of your purpose for remaining in Canada (job offer letter, letter of acceptance for a new program, family ties).
- Any correspondence with IRCC regarding your permit or status.
- Proof of any exemptions or extensions granted (e.g., work permit while studying, co-op authorization).
- Evidence that the expiry was unintentional (if pursuing restoration of status on that basis).
Escalation Options
Apply for Restoration of Study Permit Status
Under IRPA s.64, you may apply to restore your status as a study permit holder if you wish to continue or resume your studies. This application acknowledges that you became out of status and asks to be restored. You must still be enrolled or have a letter of acceptance to a new program.
Timeline: Applications for restoration typically take 4-8 weeks to process. Applicants should be in Canada when applying and should not travel without authorization.
Apply for a Work Permit
If you have a job offer, your employer may apply for a work permit on your behalf (through Labour Market Impact Assessment or LMIA exemption). You may also be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) if you graduated from a designated learning institution.
Timeline: Work permit applications vary by pathway. PGWP applications typically take 2-4 weeks if your school provides documentation. You must have completed your program to be eligible.
Apply for Permanent Residence (If Eligible)
Some international students may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class (if they have Canadian work experience) or other pathways. Being out of status does not necessarily prevent you from applying, but you should consult an immigration lawyer.
Timeline: Express Entry applications are processed within 6 months. However, if you are out of status, IRCC may request restoration of status before processing your permanent residence application.
Consult an Immigration Lawyer
If you are out of status, a lawyer can advise on the fastest and most appropriate pathway (restoration, work permit, permanent residence) based on your circumstances and goals.
Timeline: Legal consultation should be obtained as soon as you realize your permit has expired. Delay increases the risk of enforcement action.
Key Statutes and References
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 Has Expired." Accessed April 3, 2026. https://myimmigrantrights.ca/scenarios/study-permit-expired
Written by the MyImmigrantRights.ca team, based on comprehensive research of Canadian immigration law, IRPA, the Citizenship Act, and IRCC policy guidance.