Extensions & Restoration
For people already in Canada whose visitor, study, or work status is about to expire — or has expired within the restoration window.
If you apply to extend before your status expires, you usually keep maintained status under the same conditions while IRCC decides. If status has already ended, you may be able to restore it if you apply within 90 days and meet the rules. Restoration is not maintained status: you cannot work or study while that application is pending. Timing is the file.
Extend before expiry
Maintained status
Same conditions — work or study only if your current permit allows it.
Restore
Usually within 90 days
You cannot work or study while restoration is pending.
Visitor record
Extends a visit
It is not a work or study permit.
Change of conditions
Separate request
For example, adding work authorization.
Who this is for
- Your visitor, study, or work status expires soon
- You lost status and are still inside the restoration period
- You need a visitor record or a change of conditions
Who this is not for
- You are outside Canada and need a new visa or permit from a visa office
- You passed the restoration window and need a different strategy
- You want us to backdate an application after the fact
What RSTM handles
- Status and expiry audit
- Extension vs restoration vs change-of-conditions decision
- Forms and explanation letters officers expect
- Advice on what you may and may not do while IRCC decides
How this program works
- 1
Read the permit
We confirm the expiry date, conditions, and whether you are already on maintained status from an earlier filing.
- 2
Choose the instrument
Extension, restoration, or change of conditions — filing the wrong one wastes the 90 days.
- 3
File complete
We submit with the documents that explain why you still meet the class you are in.
- 4
While you wait
We tell you in writing whether you may work or study. A portal “submitted” screen is not a permit.
Documents and requirements
- A status that can be extended or that was lost recently enough to restore
- You still meet the requirements of that class (funds, enrolment, job offer)
- Restoration: generally within 90 days of loss of status
Checklist
- Current or expired permit and passport
- Proof you still qualify (enrolment, job offer, funds)
- Explanation of any gap in status
- Family members’ status if they are applying with you
Robert Makkar, RCIC · CICC licence R508785 · Toronto, Ontario
Advice specific to your circumstances is given in a paid consultation with a licensed RCIC — not by an automated score.
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Frequently asked questions
This page is preliminary information only. It is not legal advice, not a confirmation of eligibility, and not a guarantee of an invitation, approval, or any particular outcome. Advice specific to your circumstances is provided in a paid consultation with a licensed RCIC.
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