Studying in Canada opens the door to countless opportunities, from quality education to future immigration pathways. But as your current study permit nears expiry, extending it on time becomes essential to maintain legal student status.

That’s where CHD Immigration, a trusted immigration consultancy in Surrey, Canada, comes in. With years of experience helping students manage their visa renewals, CHD ensures your study permit extension application is complete, compliant, and processed on time.

In this guide, we’ll cover the Study Permit Extension Processing Time in Canada 2025, eligibility criteria, step-by-step process, and expert tips to avoid unnecessary delays.

Why Extending Your Study Permit Is Important

A valid study permit allows you to:

  • 🔸Continue your education at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
  • 🔸Legally stay in Canada as an international student.
  • 🔸Work on or off-campus if eligible.
  • 🔸Maintain eligibility for future immigration programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or Permanent Residency (PR).

If your study permit expires before your new one is approved, you risk losing your student status — which can impact your academic plans and future immigration goals.

Study Permit Extension Processing Time (2025 Update)

As of 2025, IRCC’s average processing time for a study permit extension application filed from inside Canada is:

  • 🔸Online Application: 90 to 120 days (approx. 3–4 months)
  • 🔸Paper Application: 120+ days (longer due to manual verification)

Processing times can vary depending on:

  • 🔸Volume of applications received by IRCC
  • 🔸Completeness of your documents
  • 🔸Whether biometrics or additional information is required
  • 🔸Time of year (summer and fall intakes see longer delays)
Pro Tip from CHD Immigration: Apply at least 90 days before your current permit expires to ensure a smooth transition and maintain valid student status during processing.

Eligibility for Study Permit Extension in Canada

You can apply to extend your study permit if you:

  • 🔸Are currently studying at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) 
  • 🔸Hold a valid Canadian study permit that hasn’t expired
  • 🔸Intend to continue your studies or start a new program
  • 🔸Have proof of financial support for tuition and living expenses

If your study permit has already expired, you must first restore your student status and then reapply for the permit. CHD Immigration can help prepare and submit both applications together to save time.

Documents Required for Study Permit Extension

Before applying, prepare the following documents:

  • 🔸Valid passport and current study permit copy 
  • 🔸Letter of acceptance or enrolment proof from your college/university
  • 🔸Proof of funds (bank statement, GIC, scholarship, etc.)
  • 🔸Recent transcript or progress report 
  • 🔸Digital photo and IMM 5709 form 

Ensure all documents are clear, recent, and consistent. Missing or outdated paperwork is one of the top reasons for IRCC processing delays.

How to Apply for Study Permit Extension (Step-by-Step)

  • 🔸Log in to your IRCC account. 
  • 🔸Select “Extend your study permit” under student services.
  • 🔸Fill out the application form (IMM 5709).
  • 🔸Upload all required documents and supporting evidence.
  • 🔸Pay the application fee ($150) and biometric fee if required.
  • 🔸Submit the application and wait for confirmation.

While waiting, you can continue studying under “implied status” until a decision is made — as long as you applied before your current permit expired.

Common Reasons for Processing Delays

  • 🔸Incomplete or inconsistent information in the application
  • 🔸Missing financial proof or enrollment documents
  • 🔸Delayed response to IRCC requests
  • 🔸Applying during peak seasons (August–October)
  • 🔸Submitting a paper-based application instead of online
CHD Immigration Tip: Double-check your application before submission. Their experts ensure every document meets IRCC standards to reduce delays.

Can You Stay in Canada While Waiting for Your Study Permit Extension?

Yes. If you applied before your permit expired, you are under implied status, meaning you can continue studying until IRCC makes a final decision.

However, if your permit has already expired and you didn’t apply in time, you must restore your status within 90 days — otherwise, you may have to leave Canada and reapply from abroad.

CHD Immigration helps students restore their status quickly while maintaining compliance with IRCC regulations.

How CHD Immigration Helps You Extend Your Study Permit

CHD Immigration specializes in helping international students stay in Canada legally and stress-free. Their services include:

  • 🔸Study permit extensions and renewals
  • 🔸Restoration of student status
  • 🔸Documentation review and application filing
  • 🔸Guidance on PGWP and work permit options
  • 🔸Assistance with transitioning to PR through Express Entry or PNP

With personalized support and expert handling, CHD ensures every application is accurate, timely, and IRCC-compliant.

Why Choose CHD Immigration

  • 🔸Experienced RCIC-approved immigration consultants
  • 🔸Fast, reliable, and transparent services
  • 🔸100% compliance with IRCC regulations
  • 🔸Dedicated support for students in Surrey and across Canada
  • 🔸Step-by-step assistance until approval

Their mission is to make immigration easier and more accessible for international students seeking a bright future in Canada.

Conclusion: Extend Your Study Permit with Confidence

Extending your study permit on time is essential to continue your education and maintain legal status in Canada. With the right preparation and expert support from CHD Immigration, you can avoid unnecessary stress, delays, and rejections.

Whether it’s your first extension or a complex case involving status restoration, CHD Immigration’s experts guide you every step of the way.

Contact CHD Immigration today to renew your study permit and keep your Canadian education journey uninterrupted.

FAQs

Q 1. How long does it take to process a study permit extension in 2025?

Ans. Processing time is typically 90–120 days for online applications, depending on IRCC workload.

Q 2. Can I stay in Canada while waiting for my extension?

Ans. Yes, if you applied before your permit expired, you can remain under implied status until a decision is made.

Q 3. What happens if my study permit expires before applying?

Ans. You’ll need to restore your student status within 90 days and reapply for a new study permit.

Q 4. Can CHD Immigration help if my extension is delayed or refused?

Ans. Yes, CHD Immigration assists with reapplication, documentation review, and addressing IRCC concerns.

Q 5. When should I apply to extend my study permit?

Ans. Apply at least 3 months (90 days) before your current study permit expires to avoid interruption in studies.