Ways to Extend Your Stay in Canada as an International Student from India
Like many things that come with expiration dates, your Canada study permit also has a limited duration. The expiration date on your study permit serves as a prelude, indicating when your studies in Canada must conclude, and you must depart. The validity of your study permit corresponds to the duration of your study program, with an additional 90 days.
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This extra period is allotted for international students to make preparations for their departure from Canada.
If, by any chance, your program concludes earlier than anticipated, your study permit will expire 90 days after that point, irrespective of the original date mentioned on your Canada study permit.
When is a Permit Extension Necessary for Students?
There are two primary scenarios:
- Incomplete Study Program before Visa Expiration:
- If your study program is not complete before the visa expiration date.
- Desire to Continue Studies:
- If you wish to continue your study in Canada.
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When to Apply for a Canada Study Permit Extension?
To maintain your status as an international student, it is recommended to apply for a study permit extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires. Applying even earlier can account for potential delays, ensuring timely processing.
International students at a Quebec university may also need a new Certificate Acceptation Du Quebec/Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) alongside a study permit extension.
Condition 1: Study Permit Yet to Expire
If your study program is nearing completion and you submit an application for renewal, change, or extension beforehand, you’ll be on “maintained status” until immigration authorities decide. If it expires before a decision, you can complete studies but must maintain legal status and not exceed the allowed duration without a change in status application.
Condition 2: Study Permit Already Expired
If your study permit has expired without an extension application, you lose status in Canada. Continuing or restarting studies is not allowed unless IRCC restores your status and issues a new permit. Utilize the 90-day window to apply for an extension, requiring payment of CAD 200 for status restoration and CAD 150 for a new study permit.
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Condition 3: Planning to Travel Outside of Canada
International students intending to travel outside of Canada must possess a valid travel document for re-entry.
Condition 4: Applied for a Different Permit
If you plan to work in Canada post-expiration of your student visa, apply for a work permit. However, until a decision is reached, you cannot study or work. During this period, you can stay in Canada as a temporary resident (visitor).
How to Stay in Canada after Graduation?
To remain in Canada after completing your graduation, it’s crucial to maintain legal status.
Here are the options:
- Apply for a work permit and work for a single employer.
- Apply for a status change to a visitor.
- Apply for a new study permit and continue studying.
You may also apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), if eligible. This allows you to stay in Canada, gaining valuable work experience for permanent residency points.
You can apply for PGWP only if:
- Your studies were completed at an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- The study program was at least 8 months long, leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Full-time student status was maintained every semester.
- You obtained a transcript or official letter confirming completion of study program requirements.
- Application is made within 180 days after program completion and transcript acquisition.
Note: Part-time status in the last semester or pandemic-related disruptions to part-time status are acceptable for PGWP applications.
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New Changes to PGWP
Starting in 2024, if you are going for a Canada study visa from India and your study program comes under the curriculum licensing agreement, you won’t be eligible to apply for a PGWP after graduating.
Upcoming Changes: Effective February 15, 2024
Starting February 15, 2024, international students completing master’s degree programs of less than 2 years (minimum 8 months) will qualify for a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The specific duration of your PGWP, however, is contingent upon the length of your study program.
Considering Studying Abroad?
Explore your aspirations of studying abroad by engaging with the best Canadian immigration consultants in Delhi. Our experts can guide you towards the top universities and colleges, offering advice on the most suitable course of action to best meet your educational needs.
For more information you can drop us a mail at info@universaladviser.com or give us a call on +91–730–345–0222 and speak to our experts directly.
Best of luck on your journey!
