Extension and Restoration

⏳ Expired Work Permit & Status Restoration

If your work permit shows a “Must leave Canada by” date, your legal status expires on that date — even if your permit has a later expiry.

If you’ve lost your status, you may still be eligible to restore it within 90 days, provided that:

• You apply within 90 days of losing your status
• You complied with the conditions of your stay (e.g. no unauthorized work)
• You met all requirements of your previous permit before it expired

Once your status is restored, you may then apply for a new or different work permit.

💳 Government Fees (Estimated)

• Restoration of status: $246.25
• Work permit processing: $155
• Open work permit holder fee (if applicable): $100
• Biometrics (if required): $85

⏳ Restore Visitor Status in Canada

If you stayed in Canada longer than allowed, you may be able to restore your visitor status within 90 days of its expiry.

📄 How to Apply:

• Complete the application: Extend Your Stay as a Visitor (IMM 5708)
• Select “Restore my status as a visitor”
• Clearly explain why you overstayed and provide supporting details
• Submit all required documents using the official checklist
• Pay the applicable restoration fee

⚠️ Important:

• Restoration is not guaranteed and is assessed case-by-case
• You must stop working or studying until your status is restored
• Strong explanations and proper documentation are critical

Extend your stay in Canada (visitor record)

No matter how you entered Canada — whether with a visitor visa, eTA, or another document — you must apply for a visitor record if you want to stay longer.

You need a visitor record if you are:

• A visitor extending your stay
• A worker authorized to work without a permit

A student authorized to study without a permit