International students in Canada must have a valid study permit to continue their education. With recent changes by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), it is important for international students to know the most updated policy on study permit extension, especially if they are planning to transfer to a new school.
Who Needs a Study Permit Extension?
You’ll need a study permit extension if:
- Your current permit is about to expire and you want to continue studying in Canada
- You plan to change your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) at the post-secondary level (college/university)
- You’re moving from secondary to post-secondary school
When Should You Apply for a Study Permit Extension?
IRCC recommends applying for a study permit extension as soon as possible, and at least 30 days before your current permit expires.
International students should also note:
- If you finish your program early, your permit expires 90 days after your program completion date.
- If you finish later than expected, you’ll need to apply for an extension before the study permit’s expiry date.
- If you apply before the study permit expires, you can continue to study as long as you stay in Canada under the “maintained status”.
- If you apply after the study permit expires, you will need to apply for a study permit restoration. International students cannot study until IRCC restores their status.
- Your passport must be valid for the entire requested extension period.
- A study permit is not a visa. If you leave Canada and do not have a valid visa, you will not be able to enter Canada. You will need to apply for a visa separately.
Read More: Step-by-step to Apply for Study Permit Extension
What to Do if You Change School
New Rule (Effective May 1, 2025): Most international students must now obtain a new study permit BEFORE transferring schools. If you don’t follow this rule, you could lose your legal status or even face refusal of future study or work permits.
There are some exceptions. You may be able to begin studying at a new DLI before receiving your new study permit if:
- You stayed in Canada after receiving your new LOA; and
- You meet all the conditions of your current study permit; and
- You were forced to transfer due to special circumstances (school closure, suspension, program cancellation, etc.)
Avoid These Common Mistakes
International students must be careful not to make these mistakes since they can affect your status in Canada. These mistakes can seriously affect your immigration status, ability to work or to study, or future permit applications:
- Waiting too long to apply for an extension
- Not including the PAL or TAL (if required)
- Leaving Canada during application processing
- Not understanding the difference between study permit and student visa
- Transferring to a new DLI without first getting approval
What Happens If You Don’t Extend Your Study Permit?
Failing to apply for a study permit extension before your current permit expires can have serious consequences.
- If your permit expires and you haven’t submitted an extension application, you may lose your legal status in Canada and be required to stop studying and leave the country.
- In some cases, you may be eligible to restore your status, but this process is more complicated, costly, and doesn’t guarantee approval.
That’s why it’s essential to act early and understand the rules. With the 2025 IRCC updates, there’s now greater enforcement around compliance, especially for students who switch institutions without proper authorization.
Need Help?
At Yes Study, with the expertise of RCIC- IRB Andy Luu, we’ve helped thousands of international students across Canada successfully apply for study permit extensions, transfer schools, and even prepare for permanent residence.
- Free consultations for students registered through us
- Full support with documentation and letters
- Application review and submission assistance
Contact us today to get personalized guidance.
