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How do I renew my study permit?
As an international student, you are expected to leave Canada when you have completed your studies unless you decide to extend your stay.
If your study situation changes while you are in Canada, you must notify Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You may need to change the conditions of your permit or extend (renew) it.
This means you must notify IRCC if you:
- change schools even with the same program
- switch from full-time to part-time
- need to take a semester or more off of your studies for any reason
- enroll in graduate studies, continuing education or certificate programs
Extend Your Study Permit
Your study permit is valid for 90 days after your program finishes. You can find the expiry date in the top right corner of your permit. When your permit expires, you can only stay in Canada if you have a valid work permit or another type of authorization.
You should apply to extend your permit before it expires and keep in mind that processing times vary. You can apply online.
Work After Graduation
Changing the conditions of your stay after graduation is possible and you have options.
You may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). You are not automatically eligible for a PGWP, you will need to check the list of eligible programs on the IRCC website.
Alternative Pathways
If you are not eligible for a PGWP after you graduate, you may still have options to work in Canada after you graduate with another type of permit. You can also explore your options using the Come to Canada tool.
The international student office at your school may also be able to provide information, however only authorized representatives can advise you on immigration matters.
You can contact IRCC online through their web form, you can also call them if you are in Canada at 1-888-242-2100.
For More Information
Last updated:
March 23, 2023
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