It's recommended that you apply 3 to 4 months before your current study permit expires.
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 "implied status".
With implied 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.
If your permit expires before Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) receives your extension application, you will be “out of status”.
Visit the International Student Guide for helpful information about life as an international student at UBC Vancouver.
International Student Advisors are available to help.
International Student Advisors are Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) or Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) who can help.
When emailing us, include the following information in the email:
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.
