Restoring student status

Overview

Restoring student status

Restoration is a request to recover temporary status after losing it; it is not an extension and does not create maintained status. The person must usually apply within 90 days of losing status and remain eligible.

Find the date status was lost

Status may end on the permit expiry date or after failing to meet a condition. The 90-day restoration period is strict, and a person outside it may need to leave Canada.

A school’s internal enrolment date does not extend immigration status.

Stop unauthorized activity

A restoration applicant generally cannot study or work until IRCC approves restoration and the new permit. Continuing can create additional non-compliance and harm later applications.

Keep a clear record of when the activity stopped.

File restoration and the requested permit together

Explain how status was lost, show continuing DLI enrolment and funds, and pay both restoration and permit fees. Address every condition that was breached.

Restoration is discretionary even when submitted within 90 days.

Plan for refusal or urgent school dates

The school may defer studies or require withdrawal while authorization is pending. Travel can end the practical benefit of an in-Canada restoration request.

Where the 90 days have passed or work occurred, obtain advice before choosing the next application.