Restoration of status for expired study permits, work permits and visitor status
If your permit expired, or an extension was refused, Canadian immigration law gives you 90 days to apply to restore your temporary resident status. Day 91 is too late. Star Immigration treats every restoration file as urgent and files the restoration and the new permit together.
What is restoration of status?
Restoration is an application to get back your temporary resident status as a visitor, student or worker after it has expired. It's only available within 90 days of losing status, and only if you've stayed in Canada and still meet the requirements of the status you want back.
While restoration is pending, you can
- Remain in Canada
- Apply for the new permit in the same submission
- Leave Canada if you choose
You cannot
- Work, even for your previous employer
- Attend classes
- Assume approval
Restoration of status eligibility
Within 90 days
Your status ended no more than 90 days before you apply.
Remained in Canada
You haven't left since losing status.
Meet the original requirements
You still qualify for the visitor, study or work status you're restoring.
Complied with other conditions
For example, you haven't worked or studied without authorization after expiry.
Restoration document checklist
- Explanation letter: why your status lapsed and why it should be restored
- Passport and expired permit or visitor record
- Refusal letter, if an extension was refused
- For students: new letter of enrolment, transcripts, proof of funds
- For workers: job offer, LMIA or offer number, or open permit eligibility proof
- For visitors: proof of funds and reason to stay
- Restoration fee plus the fee for the permit being requested
Explaining why your status lapsed
Accepted reasons include a refused extension filed on time, a DLI that delayed a letter, or a medical emergency. "I forgot" can still succeed, but needs a stronger file around it.
How to apply for restoration of status
Confirm your deadline
Count 90 days from the date status ended.
Stop working or studying
Immediately, until restored.
Prepare both applications
Restoration request plus the new permit or visitor record.
Submit online and pay fees
As one package, before day 90.
Past 90 days?
Restoration is no longer possible. A temporary resident permit (TRP), a humanitarian application, or leaving and applying from abroad may be options. Book quickly.
- Deadline confirmationYour exact 90-day window.
- Explanation letterWith supporting evidence.
- New permit applicationFiled together with restoration.
- Plan B after day 90TRP, H&C or outside-Canada options.
Restoration of status FAQs
Is maintained status the same as restoration?
No. Maintained status applies when you applied before expiry. Restoration is for status that already ended.
Can I work once I apply for restoration?
No, only once restoration is approved and you hold a valid work permit.
What if restoration is refused?
You'll be expected to leave. Federal Court review may be possible within 15 days.
Restore your status before day 90
Call 1-855-800-STAR or WhatsApp us now; restoration files are handled as urgent.