Restoration of Status in Canada: What It Means and Why Understanding the Deadlines Matters
When a visitor, worker, or student loses their legal status in Canada, restoration of status may be available in some circumstances. Missing the applicable deadline can require a person to leave Canada and submit a new application from abroad.
Who Is Eligible for Restoration?
- Apply within the applicable restoration period after losing temporary resident status
- Meet the applicable conditions governing restoration
- Have complied with the conditions of stay before status was lost, subject to the governing rules
- Not fall within a category that is ineligible for restoration
When Does the Restoration Period Start?
The timing depends on how status was lost. For example, a person whose extension application was submitted before expiry and later refused may have a different restoration start date from someone who simply allowed status to expire.
Can You Work While Waiting for Restoration?
A person generally cannot work or study merely because a restoration application has been submitted. Authorization must come from the applicable status or permit.
Can You Stay in Canada While IRCC Decides?
A person who has applied for restoration may remain in Canada while IRCC considers the request, but the ability to work or study depends on the applicable authorization.
Why Restoration Is Important
Missing a restoration deadline can have significant practical consequences, including leaving Canada and applying again from abroad. This article should be checked against current IRCC rules and any applicable temporary public policies before publication.
