Extend your status in Canada — clean timelines, clear evidence.
This page is designed to be quick. Choose your situation below. If your deadline is close, book a consult so we can confirm the correct pathway and prevent a status gap.
Reviewed by: Gagandeep Singh Dhillon (RCIC R709763) • Last updated: February 3, 2026
Close deadline?
Don’t leave extensions to the last day. For online submissions, timing can be affected by system cut-offs and document readiness.
Choose your pathway
Keep this simple: before expiry = extension. after expiry = restoration. The cards below tell you what we focus on for each situation.
Visitor record (extend as visitor)
Purpose of stay, funds & source of funds, and compliance story.
Work permit extension
Maintain authorization (where eligible) and keep conditions consistent.
Study permit extension
Enrollment & study progression, funding, and a clean study plan.
Restoration (after expiry)
Time-sensitive. Explanation + compliance plan + eligibility proof.
Visitor record
Best when you need more time in Canada as a visitor (not work/study).
What we focus on
- Clear purpose & realistic duration
- Funds + source of funds (traceable)
- Invitation/host support evidence (if applicable)
- Consistency across forms and documents
Maintained status (simple explanation)
If you apply before your current status expires, you may be able to remain in Canada while IRCC decides. Your ability to work or study depends on your existing conditions.
Common confusion (expand)
- Maintained status isn’t a “new permit” — it’s a waiting period with rules.
- Workers typically must keep the same work conditions (especially employer-specific permits).
- Students typically continue under the same study conditions if applied before expiry.
Work permit extension
For continuing work authorization or changing conditions (where eligible).
What we focus on
- Correct category & eligibility support (LMIA / exemption / renewal basis)
- Employment evidence (when relevant) and clean timelines
- Condition consistency while waiting (maintained status rules)
Fast checklist
To keep your file clean and officer-friendly:
- Apply before expiry (don’t wait for the last day)
- Upload clear documents (no blurry scans)
- Explain any gaps or status history upfront
- Keep forms consistent with supporting evidence
- Don’t change activities without authorization
Study permit extension
For students who need more time to complete studies or extend authorization.
What we focus on
- Enrollment + progression (why extension is required)
- Updated study plan (especially if anything changed)
- Funding plan and supporting evidence
Common mistakes
See the top issues we prevent
- Submitting late or with missing key documents
- Weak purpose for visitor record “to buy time”
- Unexplained gaps in study/work timeline
- Inconsistencies across forms vs evidence
- Restoration filed without a clear explanation
Restoration (after status expiry)
Restoration is time-sensitive and must be handled carefully. If your status has expired, don’t assume you can “just extend.” We focus on a clean timeline, a credible explanation, and clear evidence you still meet the requirements.
Note: General information only — not legal advice. A client relationship starts only after a written retainer is signed.
FAQ
Is a visitor record the same as a visitor visa?
No. A visitor record extends your stay inside Canada. A visitor visa (TRV) is for travel/entry.
If I apply before expiry, can I stay in Canada while waiting?
Often yes (maintained status), but what you can do while waiting depends on your current conditions.
What if my status already expired?
Restoration may be possible, but it is time-sensitive and should be assessed carefully before filing.
Need help fast?
If your expiry date is near, contact us today. We’ll confirm the correct pathway and build an IRCC-aligned submission plan.