How to Extend Your Canada Study Permit: A Guide for Indian Students

International students in Canada usually feel the need to extend their study permit visa due to various reasons. The initial study permit is usually issued for the duration of the student’s program, but various factors affect their study abroad like changing programs, taking extra courses, or facing unexpected delays. Due to all such reasons it becomes extremely important for students to know how to extend student visa in Canada to be able to complete their studies properly with a valid visa. For students aspiring to eventually apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or permanent residency, maintaining valid student status is essential.

 Reasons Why Students May Need to Extend Their Study Permit

• Program Extensions: If a student is enrolled in a program that takes longer to complete than originally anticipated, they will need to extend their study permit to stay legally in Canada until they finish their studies.

• Changing Programs or Institutions: If a student decides to switch to a different program or transfer to another institution, this might require additional time, necessitating a study permit extension.

• Academic Challenges: Students may face academic difficulties that delay their progress, such as failing courses or needing to repeat certain subjects, which can extend the duration of their studies.

• Co-op or Internship Programs: Some programs include work components like co-op placements or internships, which may require the student to extend their study permit to complete these additional requirements.

• Medical or Personal Issues: Unforeseen medical or personal circumstances can cause interruptions in a student’s academic journey, leading to the need for a study permit extension.

• Language Proficiency: Students who need additional time to meet language proficiency requirements before entering their main program of study may require an extension.

Eligibility Requirements for Renew Study Permit Canada

• Hold a Valid Study Permit: The student must have a valid study permit at the time of applying for the extension. If the permit has already expired, the student must apply for a restoration of status along with the extension.

• Be Enrolled in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): Students must continue to be enrolled in a recognized DLI. If a student changes institutions, the new school must also be a DLI.

• Show Academic Progress: Students must demonstrate that they are actively pursuing their studies and making reasonable progress in their academic program.

• Have Sufficient Financial Resources: Students must prove they have enough financial resources to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation without needing to work in Canada.

• Maintain Good Standing: The student must be in good standing with their current study permit conditions, such as attending school regularly, maintaining a certain academic standard, and not working more than permitted.

• Apply Before the Current Permit Expires: It is crucial to apply for the extension before the current study permit expires to maintain legal status in Canada.

Essential Documents for Study Permit Extension

• Proof of Enrollment

• Transcript of Academic Records

• Valid Passport

• Proof of Financial Support

• Current Study Permit

• Family Information Form (IMM 5707)

• Digital Photo:

• Letter of Explanation