If you are an international student in Canada and your study permit has expired or you failed to meet the conditions of your permit, you may have lost your student status. Fortunately, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allows eligible students to apply for Restoration of Status within a specific time frame. At Sober Immigration, we help students restore their status so they can continue their education in Canada without interruptions.
What is Study Permit Restoration?
Study Permit Restoration is the process that allows international students who have lost their legal status in Canada to regain it, provided they meet certain conditions. You may need restoration if:
- Your study permit expired before you applied for an extension.
- You remained in Canada without applying for a new permit in time.
- You did not comply with the conditions of your permit (e.g., stopped studying at a Designated Learning Institution – DLI).
When Can You Apply for Restoration of Status?
You can apply for restoration if:
- You apply within 90 days of losing your status.
- You continue to meet the original requirements for your study permit.
- You have not worked or studied illegally after your status expired.
- Important: If you do not apply within 90 days, you may lose your eligibility and could be required to leave Canada.
Documents Required for Study Permit Restoration
A restoration application typically includes:
- Completed IMM 5709 application form (Application to Change Conditions, Extend Stay, or Remain in Canada as a Student).
- Copy of your expired study permit.
- Valid passport.
- Proof of continued enrollment in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Proof of sufficient funds (tuition + living expenses).
- Explanation letter for why restoration is needed.
What Happens After Applying for Restoration?
- While waiting for a decision, you cannot study until your status is restored.
- If approved → You regain student status and can continue studying.
- If refused → You must leave Canada immediately.
Common Reasons Students Need Restoration
- Missed extension deadlines.
- Lack of awareness about permit expiry.
- Misunderstanding "maintained status" rules.
- School transfers or dropping out of a DLI.
- Financial or personal issues causing gaps in studies.
How Sober Immigration Helps
At Sober Immigration, we provide:
- Careful review of your immigration history and deadlines.
- Assistance with DLI enrollment verification and financial proof.
- Drafting a strong explanation letter to address why restoration is required.
- Step-by-step application preparation and submission.
- Guidance on avoiding future status issues.
Why Choose Sober Immigration?
- Licensed immigration consultants with expertise in student cases.
- Proven success in restoring student status after expiry.
- Compassionate and professional support we understand the stress of losing status.
- Step-by-step strategy for continuing your studies without further interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about work permits and employment in Canada.
Still Have Questions?
Our immigration experts are here to help. Contact us for personalized assistance with your work permit application.
Take the first step toward your immigration journey with a professional consultation. During your consultation, we will:
- Assess your eligibility for immigration programs.
- Review your options based on your personal situation.
- Provide a clear action plan for your next steps.