International Students in Canada: Compliance
In Canada, study permit holders are required to actively pursue their studies.
This means you must stay enrolled at a designated learning institution, make steady progress toward completing your program, and maintain your immigration status.
Actively Pursuing Your Studies
Study permit holders must actively pursue their studies by being enrolled in full-time or occasionally part-time courses. To work in Canada on a study permit, maintaining full-time status is essential. Each institution sets its own criteria, but full-time typically means at least 9 credits (3 courses) per semester.
Reporting
Canadian Designated Learning Institutions are legally required to periodically report each international student’s enrollment status to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Conditions
You must apply before the expiration of your study permit if you would like to continue studying in Canada. Schools recommend you apply at least three months before the expiry of your status, to allow for processing time. If you apply for extension, you must stay in Canada and meet the conditions of your original study permit (i.e.: you cannot quit school and begin working).
Study Permit Renewal
To continue studying in Canada, you must apply for an extension before your study permit expires. It’s advisable to submit your application at least three months in advance to allow for processing time. While your extension is being processed, you must remain in Canada and adhere to the conditions of your original study permit, meaning you cannot stop studying or start working.
Expired Study Permits
If your study permit expires and you haven’t applied for an extension, you must stop studying and working immediately, as you will be considered out-of-status. To regain your status, you have 90 days from the expiration date to apply for restoration, but this must be done while you are still in Canada. You’ll need to remain in the country until a decision is made, and the restoration process can take several months. Keep in mind that there’s no guarantee your application for a new study permit will be approved.
Lost Study Permits
If you would like to take a semester off, it could affect your study permit and ability to work. Check with your international student advisor if you would like to take time away from your studies.
Taking a Semester Break
If you plan to take a semester off, it may impact your study permit and work eligibility. Be sure to consult with your international student advisor before making any decisions about taking time away from your studies.
Regular and Scheduled Breaks
A regular or scheduled break includes summer holidays, reading weeks, winter holidays, or the time between graduation and receiving a post-graduation work permit. According to IRCC, a consecutive four-month break can only be taken once a year, and students must be enrolled full-time before and after this break.
Contact THE MILLENNIUM IMMIGRATION For Assistance
If you need help with studying in Canada, THE MILLENNIUM IMMIGRATION is here to assist you. With over 11 years of experience in Canadian immigration, they can provide the guidance you need.
Contact them to schedule a free telephone consultation with one of their lawyers.