How long does a study permit last and when do I need to renew it?
A study permit is typically issued for the length of your program plus a short additional period — often 90 days after your program end date. The exact validity is shown on the permit itself. It is not automatically the same as your visa or entry authorization, which are separate documents.
If your program takes longer than expected or you start a new program, your study permit may expire before you finish. You must apply for an extension before the current permit expires. Studying on an expired permit means you are out of status, which can affect your ability to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and other future programs.
IRCC allows you to continue studying under a maintained status rule (sometimes called "implied status") if you apply to extend before your permit expires and your application is still being processed — but this is a narrow protection and has conditions. Keeping close track of expiry dates is essential.
Key takeaways
- Your study permit is valid for your program length plus a short buffer
- Apply to extend before it expires — do not wait until the last minute
- Studying on an expired permit is a federal violation with serious consequences
- "Implied status" applies only if you applied for renewal before expiry