COVID-19 FAQs for international students
If you're an international student, find out more about the impact of COVID-19 on immigration, health insurance, and more.
If you're an international student, find out more about the impact of COVID-19 on immigration, health insurance, and more.
It's recommended that you apply 3 to 4 months before your current study permit expires.
If you must provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo), apply earlier to allow for this extra step.
Important: Study permits can only be extended in Canada
Visit our tutorial for step-by-step instructions, a list of required documents, and other important info that will help you complete your application.
If you and your family members’ immigration documents (e.g. study permit, or work permit, visitor record, etc.) expires after Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has received your application to extend your current documents, you will still be considered a temporary resident of Canada until a decision about your application is made. This is known as "maintained status" (formerly known as 'implied status').
With maintained status, you may continue studying (and working, if eligible), as long as you meet the conditions of your study permit while you remain in Canada.
In the above cases, you may re-enter Canada but cannot resume study and work until your application for renewal is granted.
See traveling outside Canada for more information.
If your permit expires before Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) receives your extension application, you will be “out of status”.
See our FAQ on the differences between applying for a study permit from inside or outside of Canada.
Be sure to review our Travelling to Canada Guide before making travel plans.
Sign up for the new Canvas application review course to go over required documents, learn how to fill out the form, avoid common mistakes, and be ready to submit your application.
Find everything you need to know about life as an international student at UBC's Vancouver campus.
You can also connect with an International Student Advisor for questions related to immigration, health insurance, and life as an international student in Canada.
The immigration information on this page has been reviewed and endorsed by Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) or Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) in compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. However, this is not a legal document and information may change without notice. Always refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the most up-to-date information.