extension or restoration of temporary status

Status extensions and restorations allow temporary residents in Canada (visitors, students, and workers) to maintain or regain legal status in the country. As Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) at Green Acres Immigration, we provide authorized guidance to help applicants understand Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements for extending their stay or restoring temporary resident status.
Status Extension Eligibility

Extension of Status (now called Maintained Status)

To qualify for an extension of your temporary resident status (as a visitor, student, or worker), you must generally:Apply Before Your Current Status Expires:

  • Submit your application at least 30 days before your current permit or visitor record expires to maintain implied status while awaiting a decision.
  • Meet the Requirements for Your New Status
  • Continue to satisfy the eligibility criteria for the type of status you are requesting (e.g., proof of sufficient funds and ties to home country for visitors; continued enrollment and academic progress for students; valid job offer or LMIA for workers).
  • Have genuine Temporary Resident Intent
  • Demonstrate to an IRCC officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.
  • Lawful Character and Health
  • Have no criminality or security issues that would make you inadmissible to Canada. Minor offences may not result in inadmissibility, depending on the nature of the offence, how it equates under Canadian law, and the time elapsed. In some cases, applicants may be deemed rehabilitated or may need to address admissibility through criminal rehabilitation or a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP). IRCC may request police certificates.
  • Complete an immigration medical examination if required.

Restoration of Status Eligibility

Restoration may be requested if:

  • You apply within 90 days of losing your status.
  • You remained in Canada longer than the period authorized.
  • You failed to comply with a condition of your permit, such as working without authorization or studying without authorization.

Required application documents typically includes:

  • Appropriate IRCC forms (e.g., IMM 5708 for visitors, IMM 5709 for students, IMM 5710 for workers).
  • Valid passport covering your intended stay.
  • Current or most recent permit/visitor record.
  • Proof supporting your requested status (e.g., letter of enrollment from DLI, job offer/employment contract, proof of funds, letter of explanation).
  • Detailed explanation of why status was lost (for restorations) and any relevant background information.
  • Police certificates (when requested by IRCC).
  • Supporting documents (educational credentials, proof of ties to home country).
  • Biometrics (if required and not previously provided).

How We Assist

  • Eligibility assessment for extensions or restorations (visitor, student, or worker status), including review of any prior criminal matters.
  • Document review and completeness verification to meet IRCC standards.
  • Preparation of detailed letters of explanation addressing IRCC temporary resident criteria and circumstances of any status loss.
  • Form accuracy and submission through authorized channels as RCICs.
  • Response support for any procedural fairness letters or additional document requests.
  • Guidance on current IRCC policies, including admissibility considerations.

Regulatory Disclaimer

We are licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants authorized by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. The information on this website is for general guidance only and does not guarantee any outcome. Please consult the official IRCC website and schedule a consultation with us for professional advice.