How To Apply For Restoration Of Status Canada?

How To Apply For Restoration Of Status Canada?

The restoration of status Canada, when discussing Canadian immigration, refers to a procedure that enables those who have lost their temporary resident status (such as visitor, student, or worker status) to have it restored within a specific time frame. When a temporary resident’s status expires, and they remain in Canada without a legitimate status, they are said to be “out of status” or to have “Maintained Status or Implied Status In Canada.” These people can restore their legal status via an online restoration application. 

Restoration of Status Canada application Eligibility

The individual must meet specific criteria, including:

1. Restoration of status Canada within 90 day

Those who have lost their status must apply for restoration within 90 days of expiring. The application might not be approved if submitted after this time frame.

2. Meet eligibility requirements

The applicant must be eligible for temporary resident status (such as visitor, student, or worker) they are attempting to restore.

3. Reasons for Restoration Status

Applicants must typically give a good reason for not renewing their status before its expiration. Acceptable explanations may include events beyond their control, such as illness, personal crises, or administrative errors.

4. Compliance with conditions

People asking for Restoration must show that they met the requirements of their previous status while in Canada.

It’s crucial to remember that although the Restoration of status is possible, it’s usually advised to extend or modify your status before it expires to keep legal standing in Canada. Relying on Restoration while out of status might make your immigration situation more difficult and could impact future applications.

For the most recent and accurate information on Restoration and other immigration problems, it is always preferable to consult an expert RCIC specialist or refer to the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) since immigration rules and processes might change.

What happens if I am out of status in Canada?

Suppose you are out of status in Canada. If so, it signifies that you are no longer permitted to remain in the country since your lawful temporary resident status (such as visitor, student, or worker status) or temporary resident permit has expired. Falling out of status can have several implications and consequences:

1. Loss of Legal Status

Losing your legal status in Canada implies you no longer comply with your initial legal status requirements.

2. Limited Access to Services

While some services may still be available, you may no longer be eligible for certain benefits and services reserved for those with legal status, such as healthcare coverage in some provinces.

3. Restrictions on Work and Study

 If you were not in the country legally, you could not work or attend school in Canada. This may impact your capacity to sustain yourself and achieve your goals in the country.

4. Risk of Removal

If you are discovered to be out of status (Overstay In Canada expired visa), immigration officials may initiate action to have you removed from Canada. This might entail a removal order or deportation.

5. Negative Impact on Future Visa Applications

Falling out of status may hurt your situation to apply for future visas, permits, or other immigration programs. If your status is out of status, that might be viewed negatively when your application is evaluated.

6. Limited Legal Recourse

If you are not in the country legally and are involved in a legal dispute, you may need to access some legal remedies only available to those in the country legally.

7. Complications in application

If you wish to return to status, it could get harder the longer you are out of status. You can submit an application for Restoration status within a limited timeframe (often 90 days)

Proactive steps if you are out of status in Canada

1. Apply with timeframe

You should apply as soon as feasible to restore your prior status if you are still in the restoration window (often 90 days).

2. Seek Legal Advice

To understand your choices and the best course of action given your circumstances, speak with an immigration lawyer or consultant.

3. Comply with Authorities

If you receive any correspondence from immigration officials, reply thoroughly as soon as possible.

4. Prepare for Consequences

Be mindful of the potential consequences of being out of status and make plans considering them.

To prevent these difficulties and legal problems, it is always preferable to preserve your legal position in Canada and follow the requirements of your temporary resident status. To ensure you make well-informed decisions, ask for expert RCIC help if you need clarification on your situation or how to move forward. 

Restoration Of Status Canada

How to apply for restoration of status in Canada?

The general stages to applying for Restoration of Status Canada are as follows. You should always check the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the most recent information before moving further with your application because procedures and requirements are subject to change: 

1. Determine Your Eligibility

Before submitting an application, ensure you are qualified for the status you wish to restore (such as a visitor, student, or worker). Visit the IRCC website to review the qualifying requirements.

2. Gather Required Documents

Gather all the evidence you’ll need to support your application. This might include a filled-out application form, a letter outlining your failure to extend your status, financial documentation, and any other papers relevant to your circumstances.

3. Create or Update an Online Account

You must first create or update your online account with the IRCC if you don’t already have one. If you already have one, log into your account to ensure your information is accurate.

4. Access the Online Application Portal

Visit the IRCC website and access the online portal for application. 

5. Complete the Application

Complete the application form with genuine and correct information. According to the application’s instructions, upload the necessary documents.

6. Pay the Application Fee

Make a valid online payment for the necessary fees. 

7. Submit the Application

Check your application to make sure all the details are correct, and all the necessary files are attached. When everything is to your satisfaction, submit your application using the online portal.

8. Wait for a Decision

After completing your application, you will get a confirmation from the IRCC confirming receipt of your application. Await a response to your application. Restoration of status Canada processing time can vary, so be patient. 

9. Comply with Any Additional Requests

IRCC will contact you if it needs more details or documents to process your application. Make careful to reply to inquiries for more information as soon as possible. 

10. Receive Decision and Act

You will be informed of the result after a decision has been made on your application. If restoration of status Canada is approved, you will restore your legal status. If the restoration of status is denied, you might need to leave Canada, as you would no longer have a valid status.

It’s vital to remember that this procedure may be difficult, and your application’s success will rely on several elements, including the causes of your loss of status and the force of your application. Consider getting advice from an RCIC or immigration lawyer if you’re uncertain about any step in the procedure. 

Out of status in Canada what can I do?

When regaining your status as a worker or student in Canada, look at a few scenarios to see if you are out of status in Canada. Keep in mind that every condition is different. Therefore, it’s crucial to speak with a regulated Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC) to decide the best course of action for your situation. For students who are out of status, consider the following restoration of status options: 

1. Apply Within 90 Days

If you have lost your student status, but it hasn’t been 90 days since it did, you can apply for Restoration of your student or worker status. Create a compelling application that thoroughly justifies your loss of status and your desire to continue your education or work in Canada. Please provide all necessary paperwork, including a letter of admission from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) or LMIA (If needed) and evidence of your financial ability. 

2. Apply for a Study or Work Permit Extension or Restoration status

You still have the choice to apply for a study permit extension or work permit extension or a restoration of status if more than 90 days have passed after the expiration of your status. You must apply for a new study permission and justify your delay in requesting an extension. More documentation could be needed to support the delay on this route. 

3. Leave Canada and Apply from Outside

if a long period has passed since the expiration of your status, none of the aforementioned choices work out for you, You might want to consider leaving Canada and reapplying for a study visa or work visa from your home country or another country where you have legal residency. With this strategy, you would have to reapply and demonstrate that you satisfy all conditions for a study permit or work permit. 

4. Explore Other Immigration Pathways

If going back to school or work is not possible, you could look into alternative immigration options, such as requesting a visitor visa or, if you qualify through a program like Express Entry, permanent residency. This would include conforming to the particular program requirements you are applying for. 

5. Consult with an Immigration Professional

Consultation with an immigration expert (RCIC) is highly advised because of the complexity of its process and the potential consequences of making the incorrect choice. An immigration consultant may evaluate your circumstances, walk you through your alternatives, and assist you in creating a compelling application. 

Restoration of status after 90 days

After 90 days, you might still be eligible to apply for restoration of status Canada, depending on the situation. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) does have procedures for accepting application petitions received after the 90-day limit, notwithstanding the standard recommendation to apply within 90 days to have the highest chance of success. Nevertheless, each of these situations is normally examined individually.  

Giving strong justification for the delay in your application becomes much more crucial if you seek Restoration beyond 90 days. Your application’s success will rely on several variables, including the causes of the delay, the events that led to your loss of status, and your overall immigration history.  

It’s crucial to realize that there are no guarantees an application submitted after 90 days will be accepted. IRCC will evaluate each application based on its merits and unique circumstances.  

You should speak with an immigration consultant (RCIC) who can provide tailored guidance based on your circumstances to improve your chances of success. They can assist you in choosing the best course of action and creating a compelling restoration application, particularly if you’re making an application beyond the typical 90-day deadline. 

Is Restoration an implied status Canada?

Yes, in the context of Canadian immigration, the concepts of implied status and restoration status are closely connected. While awaiting a decision on a request to extend or modify their status in Canada, an individual’s temporary resident status (such as visitor, student, or worker status) is automatically extended. This is known as implied status. It provides a sense of security and stability, implying that you can continue to live in Canada if you apply to renew your status before it expires. Your existing status is “implied status” to continue while the application is handled until a decision is reached.

You might lose your status if your request for an extension or change of status is denied or time runs out before making a decision. Losing your status implies that you are no longer adhering to the conditions of your prior status, which might impact your ability to apply for immigration.  

When someone loses status, restoration of status becomes relevant. Let’s say you lose your status but still want to live legally in Canada. In that instance, you have a limited time (often 90 days) after your status has expired to petition for Restoration of status. If the restoration of status Canada is approved, you can resume your lawful temporary resident status in Canada. This application is a request to reestablish your prior status.  

Therefore, this is a procedure to restore legal status after losing it for various reasons. In contrast, implied status plays a crucial role in helping people maintain status while their application is being handled. It’s important to understand this distinction. 

Can I work or study while waiting for the Restoration of my status?

You can usually only work or attend school in Canada while waiting for a decision on your application. In contrast to implied status, which occurs when you ask to prolong or modify your status before it expires, when you file a restoration application, your prior status is not automatically extended.  

It’s understandable that you may feel uncertain about your legal situation while your application is being processed. However, it’s important to remember that patience is key. Before starting any employment or school activities, you must wait until your application is granted and your status is formally restored.  

Depending on your position and eligibility, you may have the option to apply separately for a work or study permit if you need to continue working or attending school while your application is being processed. To understand the specific guidelines and procedures that apply to your situation, it’s recommended to consult with an immigration expert or visit the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.  

It’s important to remember that working or studying illegally while your application is still ongoing can have serious consequences. It may negatively impact your immigration status and future applications. To avoid such issues, it’s always best to adhere to immigration laws and rules.

How Can We Help You?

Although the choices above could give applicants out of status in Canada a unique opportunity, they also impose some restrictions that must be carefully considered. These include giving up the ability to appeal if the application is refused, waiting longer for a response than with an overseas application, and staying in Canada while the application is being processed. For these reasons, it’s crucial to carefully consider the appropriate legal course of action by consulting with an expert RCIC.

Arnika Visa is one of the most reliable Canadian Immigration Consulting companies in Canada. You can benefit from the expertise and experience of Arnika Visa’s RCICs in Canadian immigration. Arnika Visa specialists can improve the quality of your immigration application to increase your chances of approval. Arnika Visa’s expert team, under the management of Mr. Reza Eslami, an active member of The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), RCIC, R710241, will handle all the stages of your immigration application in detail, including choosing the best immigration pathway, preparing additional supporting documents and filling out the immigration forms, obtaining Canada PR, Canadian passport, etc.

32 Responses
  1. Wesley Ogunmolu

    Hi, I applied to renew my open work visa, but it got refused, and it’s past the 90 days. Now, I am out of status. I applied for PR but didn’t know how long it would take. What can I do to stay in Canada and restore my status? Thanks

    1. Given the complexity of your legal immigration questions, we recommend scheduling an appointment with our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) for accurate and personalized advice. His expertise will provide you with the necessary guidance for your specific situation. You can choose your preferred time for the appointment on the link below:

      https://arnikavisa.com/book-a-consult/

      1. Stacey

        Hi. I just got a refusal work permit letter. I want to know if I could leave the country for 3months and return. I plan to apply for the restoration status as soon as possible. My visitor visa expires in December.

        I am not sure what to do since I can’t work to pay rent and dont have much options to stay with other people.
        Do you know how long is the restoration period?

        I look forward to your answers

        1. Restoration applications typically have 90 days from the date of status loss. However, leaving Canada could impact your restoration eligibility, so it’s best to apply while still in the country. Please check your refusal letter for more details about your timeframe, and next steps as IRCC usually mentions it.

  2. Priya Patel

    After one year of experience with 612 points, I applied as a skilled worker in Manitoba, but my PGWP expired soon and is now on maintained status. Express entry CRS is 412 with a valid health care occupation-specific NOC code. I want help to get job offers from provinces like Alberta, etc. Please provide your guidelines for applying in Alberta or as you suggested.

    1. Research Alberta’s Provincial Nominee Program (AINP) for eligibility. Network and search for jobs on Alberta-specific platforms. Reach out directly to employers, tailoring your application to match job requirements. Consult immigration professionals for guidance on AINP or other immigration pathways. Consider alternative programs like the Alberta Start-Up Visa Program For Foreign Entrepreneurs (Called Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream) for additional opportunities.

  3. James Barnes

    Hi, I overstayed my working holiday visa in 2019 by 62 days; I was also working after it expired. Four years later I’m married to a Canadian woman (I married her in canada, I’ve been approval tourist visas) I’m needing to know if it’s possible to apply for spouse visa with the overstay issue? Thanks

    1. The overstay on your previous visa could pose challenges, but it’s not necessarily a barrier to applying for a spouse visa. However, it’s crucial to be transparent about your immigration history. Consult an immigration lawyer or RCIC for personalized advice on addressing the overstay issue in your spouse’s visa application.

  4. Ali Khan

    I came to Canada as an international student and currently have no status. I was in two relationships, and my partner was sponsoring me, but the submission got returned and is now out of status due to missing information. I just wanted to explore my options for staying or restoring my status as a student or even visitor. Thanks

    1. Navigating status complexities can be daunting. Let’s explore your options for restoring status or transitioning to visitor status. With strategic guidance, we can outline a path forward. Reach out to discuss your situation in detail. Looking forward to assisting you.

  5. Ebrahim Rafah

    I have been refused a work permit because I forgot to state that our visa was previously denied. My last work permit expired three days ago. My refusal letter says I need to leave the country immediately. What does that mean? How do I restore my status?

    1. If your work permit was refused and you were instructed to leave immediately, you are no longer authorized to stay in Canada. You should:
      Leave Canada promptly: Follow the instructions in the refusal letter to avoid legal issues.
      Restore Status: If you plan to stay, apply for restoration of status within 90 days, addressing the previous refusal reasons.
      Consult an RCIC or Immigration Lawyer: Get professional advice to explore your options and adequately address the situation.
      Thank you.

  6. Ndubuisi Sylvanus

    Hello! I was on a visitor visa but overstayed for more than a year. I was planning to go home but feared the consequences of overstaying. My daughter applied for a humanitarian and compassionate visa. Can you educate me on what the best thing to do is? Is the restoration possible for me? Thank you. 

    1. If you’ve overstayed your visitor visa in Canada, it’s crucial to address your immigration status promptly. While awaiting the outcome of your daughter’s humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) visa application, you may explore options to rectify your status, such as applying for restoration of status or submitting a separate H&C or TRP application. Consulting an immigration lawyer is advisable for personalized guidance.

  7. Mumshad

    I applied for my PR in August 2023, and my PGWP was to expire in November 2023, but I didn’t realize I needed to apply for a work permit extension until yesterday. I thought having my PR application in progress made my stay legal. I have unknowingly overstayed in Canada; however, my PR application is still being processed. Please tell me the restoration process in my case.

    1. You should immediately contact one RCIC expert on out-of-status situations to explain your situation and seek their advice on the next steps. You may need to apply for a restoration of status or temporary resident visa (TRP) to rectify your overstay and avoid issues with your PR application.

  8. Bhumi

    I read your website details on the status scenario and out of status scenario and wanted to ask you. I have applied for inland spousal sponsorship, and my application is halfway through. However, I am on my way through the 90-day deadline to restore a time un, and I have a question: Will there be any consequences in my application regarding my status, or can my application move ahead without my status?! Do I need a restoration of status now?
    I would appreciate your feedback and help! 

    1. If you are on implied status while your inland spousal sponsorship application is in process, you can continue staying in Canada legally. However, overstaying during this period could negatively affect your application, so it’s crucial to address your status immediately.

  9. Nikolas

    I lived in Canada for almost five years and overstayed my student visa. I was suspended from school in May 2023, and my permit expired in December 2023. I wanted to work while I was on suspension and received LMIA from a food company owner, but I was ghosted. I need 5-6 courses to graduate. Please guide me to get a TRP permit.

    1. Seek legal advice immediately. If your status expires after 90 days, consider applying for a TRP application along with a study permit. Alternatively, consider reapplying for a study permit from outside Canada.

  10. Malek

     What are the options now to turn my status to legal?  I came to Canada as a student in 2018 and have had our status since August 2021. Now, I have overstayed my visa for about three years. Please help me to restore my status. Thanks

    1. You should immediately consult with an immigration lawyer to discuss options such as applying for restoration of status or seeking other forms of legal status in Canada. They can help navigate the complexities of your situation and avoid potential negative consequences related to your overstay.

  11. Nelson

    I find myself in a distressing situation as I am currently out of status. As a student visa holder, I missed the 90-day window to apply for restoration after my visa expired. This was a result of a misunderstanding about my visa expiration date, compounded by the fact that I was struggling with depression at the time. I am in desperate need of assistance. 

    1. Contact an immigration lawyer immediately to explore options like applying for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or seeking legal advice on possible restoration alternatives.

  12. Hassan

    I’m on restoration status and am awaiting to apply for study permit. I’m travelling outside Canada and must apply for an ETA visa, as my current one has expired.
    When l return and Re-enter on an ETA visa, will that affect the process or application status for the Study permit visa? And will my restoration status be affected?

    1. Reentering Canada on an eTA will likely affect your restoration application and implied status. It would be best to wait for the decision on restoration before leaving Canada, as exiting may result in complications or rejection of your application.

  13. Amy Gomez

    I got my study permit extension refusal recently, stating that i already finished my study program and have a pgwp application on process. What should I do to ensure my pgw
    approval? do i need to restore my status as student or just apply for trv (visitor visa)?

    1. You should maintain legal status in Canada at any time. For specific advice on maintaining your status and PGWP application, please consult with a n RCIC to explore your best options.

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