Blog

An expiring permit does not always mean you must leave. Your Canadian work permit, study permit or visitor status has an expiry date. As that date approaches, you may wonder whether you can remain in Canada while IRCC reviews an extension application. The answer depends on your situation. Under certain conditions, maintained status Canada allows temporary residents to remain in the country while Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processes an application submitted before their authorized stay expires. Some applicants may also continue working or studying. However, the rules differ for workers, students and visitors.

A misunderstanding can create serious immigration problems. For example, a worker may assume that an extension application automatically allows them to change employers. A student may believe that applying after expiry gives them permission to continue studying. A visitor may confuse a visitor visa with permission to remain in Canada. This guide explains how maintained status works, what applicants should consider before their permit expires, and which steps can help protect their temporary resident status.

1. What is maintained status Canada?

IRCC uses the term maintained status when a temporary resident applies to extend or change their authorized stay before their current status expires and continues to wait for a decision. In simple terms, an eligible applicant can remain in Canada while IRCC processes the application. For example, imagine that a worker has a work permit expiring on December 15. The worker submits a complete application to extend the work permit before that date. December 15 arrives, but IRCC has not made a decision. If the worker meets the applicable requirements, they may remain in Canada under maintained status while IRCC reviews the application. However, maintained status does not automatically give everyone permission to continue working or studying. The applicant must follow the rules that apply to their previous permit and the new application.

Remember these three points:

• You must submit the relevant extension or change application before your current status expires.
• Your activities during the waiting period depend on your previous authorization and the type of application you submitted.
• Travel outside Canada can affect your ability to work or study when you return.

IRCC explains these rules on its official pages for work permit extensions, study permit extensions and visitor records.

2. Who can benefit from maintained status?

Different temporary residents may qualify for maintained status when they follow the applicable extension rules. The following situations explain how the process generally works.

Temporary foreign workers:

A worker may apply to extend their work permit or change its conditions before the current permit expires. If the worker submits the application on time and the current permit expires during processing, IRCC may allow the worker to remain in Canada and continue working under the conditions of the original permit.

For an employer-specific work permit, the worker must generally continue with the same:

• Employer
• Job
• Work location

An open work permit holder generally has more flexibility, although any specific conditions on the original permit still matter. A worker should never assume that maintained status automatically permits a new job, employer or work location.

International students:

A student who applies to extend a study permit before it expires may remain in Canada while IRCC processes the application. If the student meets the applicable conditions, they may continue studying under the conditions of their original study permit while they remain in Canada. However, changing schools or changing the conditions of study can involve additional requirements. Students should review IRCC’s instructions before making changes.

Visitors:

A visitor who wants to stay in Canada beyond their authorized period can apply for a visitor record before their status expires. If the visitor submits the application on time, they may remain in Canada while IRCC processes it. However, a visitor record does not grant permission to work or study unless the person already qualifies for a separate authorization.

Important: Maintained status does not apply to every immigration application. For example, IRCC states that temporary resident permit applicants do not benefit from maintained status.

Official references:

• IRCC – Work permit extensions
• IRCC – Study permit extensions
• IRCC – Visitor records

3. Work Permit extension: Can you keep working?

This is one of the most important questions for temporary foreign workers. An applicant who submits a work permit extension before the current permit expires may continue working after the expiry date, provided they meet IRCC’s conditions. However, the new application must match the worker’s circumstances. Consider the following examples.

Example: Employer-specific work permit

Ravi holds an employer-specific work permit. He submits an application to extend it before the expiry date. IRCC has not made a decision when the permit expires. Ravi may continue working under the same conditions as his original permit while he remains in Canada and waits for a decision. He cannot simply begin working for another employer because he submitted an extension application.

Example: Open work permit

Meera holds an open work permit. She submits an eligible extension application before expiry. Her ability to change employers or jobs generally remains more flexible than that of an employer-specific permit holder. However, she must still follow any restrictions that appear on her original permit.

Example: Changing from worker to visitor

Arjun holds a work permit and applies for a visitor record before the work permit expires. He may remain in Canada while IRCC processes the visitor application. However, he must stop working when his work permit expires because his new application does not extend his work authorization. This distinction matters. Permission to remain in Canada does not always mean permission to work. IRCC also explains that applicants who leave Canada while relying on maintained status may lose their authorization to work when they return, until IRCC approves the new work permit.

4. Study Permit extension: Can students continue studying?

International students should monitor their study permit expiry dates carefully. A student who wants to continue studying at the same designated learning institution (DLI) should apply to extend the study permit before it expires. IRCC recommends applying at least 30 days before the expiry date. This gives the student time to prepare the application and respond to any issues. If the student applies before expiry and remains in Canada, IRCC allows the student to continue studying under the conditions of the original study permit while waiting for a decision. However, students should pay close attention to changes in their education plans.

What if a student changes schools?

Changing schools can involve separate requirements. For example, a post-secondary student who wants to move to another DLI may need to apply for a new study permit before starting at the new school, depending on the applicable rules and exceptions. A student should not assume that an extension application automatically authorizes a transfer.

What if a student finishes the program early?

A study permit does not always remain valid until the printed expiry date. IRCC explains that when a student completes their program earlier than expected, the study permit generally becomes invalid 90 days after the student first receives confirmation of program completion, regardless of the date printed on the permit. The completion date may come from a completion letter, transcript, degree or diploma. Students should review this rule before planning further studies, applying for another permit or preparing a post-graduation work permit application.

What if the student applies after expiry?

A student who fails to apply before the study permit expires generally loses student status. The student must stop studying until IRCC restores their status and issues the required authorization.

5. Visitor Record: Staying longer in Canada

Visitors often confuse a visitor visa with a visitor record. These documents serve different purposes. A visitor visa, also called a temporary resident visa (TRV), helps an eligible traveller seek entry to Canada. A visitor record is a document that allows a person already in Canada to extend their authorized stay or change their temporary resident category. For example, a worker whose employment ends may wish to remain in Canada as a visitor while considering their next steps. An international student may also apply to change their status from student to visitor if they no longer plan to study. In these situations, the person may need to apply for a visitor record before their current status expires.

What should a visitor remember?

• Apply before the authorized stay expires.
• Check the expiry date on the current immigration document or the authorized period of stay.
• Explain the reason for requesting additional time.
• Provide documents that support the requested stay.
• Follow all conditions that apply during the waiting period.

A visitor record does not automatically provide a new visa for travel. If you leave Canada, you may need a valid TRV or electronic travel authorization (eTA), depending on your circumstances, to return. A visitor record alone does not guarantee re-entry.

6. Travel outside Canada while on maintained status

Travel plans require special attention. Some applicants believe that once they submit an extension application, they can travel internationally and return with the same rights they had before leaving. That assumption can create problems. For example, a worker who applies to extend a work permit before expiry may leave Canada while IRCC processes the application. The worker may be allowed to return as a visitor if they meet the entry requirements. However, if IRCC has not approved the new work permit, the worker generally cannot resume working until approval. The result may differ if IRCC approves the application while the worker is outside Canada. Students should also review travel requirements before leaving. IRCC explains that a study permit is not a travel document. Students need the appropriate documents to seek re-entry.

Before travelling, check:

1. Whether your current permit remains valid.
2. Whether you have a valid TRV or eTA, if required.
3. Whether your extension application remains under review.
4. Whether you can work or study after returning.
5. Whether your travel plans could affect your application.

A border officer makes the final decision on admission to Canada. A visa or eTA does not guarantee entry.

7. What happens if your permit expires before you apply?

This situation requires immediate attention. If your temporary resident status expires before you submit an eligible extension application, you generally lose your status in Canada. You cannot treat a late application as an ordinary extension. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify to apply for restoration of status.

The 90-day restoration period:

IRCC generally allows eligible temporary residents to apply to restore their status within 90 days after losing it. However, applicants must meet specific conditions.

For example, they generally must:

• Apply within the permitted 90-day period.
• Have complied with the conditions of their previous stay.
• Continue to meet the applicable requirements.
• Submit the correct restoration application and pay the required fees.

A person who applies for restoration as a worker generally cannot work until IRCC restores their status and issues the new work permit. Similarly, a student who loses status cannot continue studying until IRCC restores their status and provides the required study authorization. Restoration is not guaranteed. IRCC may refuse an application, and the applicant may need to leave Canada.

What if more than 90 days have passed?

In most cases, a person who loses status and does not apply for restoration within 90 days must leave Canada and pursue the appropriate application from outside the country. IRCC also describes certain special exceptions, including a specific pathway for some foreign workers with support letters from participating provinces or territories. Do not assume that an exception applies without checking the official eligibility requirements.

8. Common mistakes that can affect your status

A small misunderstanding can create unnecessary complications. Watch for these common mistakes.

Mistake	Why it matters	Better approach
Applying after the permit expires	You may lose your temporary resident status.	Apply before the expiry date.
Assuming every application allows continued work	Your new application may not include work authorization.	Check the rules for your specific application.
Changing employers without authorization	Employer-specific permit conditions still apply.	Confirm whether you need a new permit or authorization.
Travelling without checking re-entry rules	You may return as a visitor and lose the ability to work until approval.	Review IRCC travel guidance first.
Confusing a visa with a permit	A visa and a permit serve different purposes.	Check both your status document and travel document.
Ignoring family members’ expiry dates	Each family member may need a separate application.	Review everyone’s status individually.
Relying on an old immigration rule	IRCC instructions can change.	Use current official guidance.

9. A practical timeline for your permit expiry

Planning early can reduce avoidable stress. Use this timeline as a general preparation guide.

60–90 days before expiry:

• Review your current permit and its conditions.
• Check your passport expiry date.
• Decide whether you need an extension or a change in status.
• Review the current IRCC application instructions.
• Identify documents that may take time to obtain.

At least 30 days before expiry:

• Aim to submit the application by this point where possible.
• Review all forms and supporting documents.
• Check whether your situation involves an employer, school or family member.
• Confirm that the application reflects your actual plans.

Before the expiry date:

• Submit the appropriate application.
• Save the submission confirmation and payment receipt.
• Keep copies of the submitted forms and supporting documents.
• Check your IRCC account for messages or document requests.

After the original permit expires:

• Follow the conditions that apply to your maintained status.
• Do not assume that you can change jobs, schools or activities.
• Review travel plans carefully.
• Respond to IRCC requests within the stated deadlines.

This timeline offers general planning guidance. Your actual deadline depends on your immigration document and circumstances.

10. How Four Pillars Immigration can help?

Temporary resident extensions require careful planning. A worker, student and visitor may face different rules even when all three submit applications before their permits expire. At Four Pillars Immigration, we understand that every immigration situation has its own requirements. Our team can help you review your circumstances, understand the available application options and prepare an organized submission based on the applicable IRCC instructions.

Our approach focuses on clear communication, careful preparation and practical guidance. We explain the process so that you can make informed decisions about your next steps. Do not wait until the final days of your authorized stay to understand your options. Early planning gives you more time to identify the correct application and prepare the required documents.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I stay in Canada after my work permit expires?

You may stay in Canada under maintained status if you submitted an eligible application to extend or change your work permit before it expired and meet IRCC’s requirements. Your ability to work depends on the type of application and your original permit conditions.

2. Can I work while waiting for a work permit extension?

In many cases, yes. If you applied before your current work permit expired and meet the conditions, you may continue working under the same conditions while you remain in Canada. Different rules apply if you applied for a visitor record or study permit instead.

3. Can I travel while on maintained status?

You may be able to leave and seek re-entry, but travel can affect your work or study authorization. For example, a worker whose extension remains under review may return as a visitor and must wait for approval before resuming work. Always check the latest IRCC travel instructions.

4. Can international students continue studying during maintained status?

Students who apply to extend their study permits before expiry may generally continue studying under their original permit conditions while they remain in Canada and wait for a decision. They must also meet the applicable study permit conditions.

5. What happens if I apply after my permit expires?

You generally lose your temporary resident status. You may qualify for restoration if you meet IRCC’s requirements and apply within the applicable 90-day period. You cannot assume that a late extension application restores your status automatically.

6. Does a visitor visa give me permission to stay in Canada indefinitely?

No. A visitor visa is a travel document. It does not automatically extend your authorized stay. A visitor who wants to remain longer generally needs to apply for a visitor record before their current status expires.

7. Does every family member receive maintained status through one application?

No. Each family member must review their own immigration status and application requirements. IRCC’s restoration instructions also explain that family members who have lost status generally need separate restoration applications.