Restoration of Status in Canada

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Lost Your Immigration Status in Canada? Act Fast. We Can Help.

If you’ve overstayed your visa, study permit, or work permit, or missed your renewal deadline, you’re no longer in status. But you may still have a chance to stay legally in Canada by applying for a Restoration of Status.

At Lakes Land Immigration, based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, we offer expert assistance with restoring your status, whether you’re a student, worker, visitor, or in a transitional immigration phase.

What is Restoration of Status in Canada?

Restoration of status is a legal process under Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals in Canada to regain legal status after their:

  1. Visitor visa
  2. Study permit
  3. Work permit

has expired, or if they violated the conditions of their stay.

You must apply for restoration within 90 days of losing your status.

Who Can Apply for Restoration of Status in Canada?

You may be eligible for restoration of status if:

  1. Your temporary resident status expired within the last 90 days
  2. You were previously authorized to enter and stay in Canada
  3. You meet the eligibility criteria for the original permit you held (study, work, or visit)
  4. You did not violate other conditions of your stay (e.g., criminal offence or misrepresentation)

Restoration of Status – Student Permit

If your study permit expired and you failed to apply for renewal on time, you can apply to restore your student status if:

  1. You are still within 90 days of the expiry date
  2. You continue to meet all conditions of being a student (admission, enrollment, finances, etc.)
  3. You were not working illegally

During this period, you are not allowed to study or work until your status is restored.

Restoration of Status – Work Permit

If your work permit expired or you changed jobs/employers without authorization, you can apply for restoration of status as a worker if:

  1. You’re applying within 90 days
  2. You still meet the eligibility requirements for the work permit you seek
  3. You have a valid job offer and LMIA or LMIA-exempt documentation (if applicable)

You cannot work during the restoration period until your application is approved and you receive a valid work permit.

Restoration of Status – Visitor Visa

If your visitor visa expired and you overstayed, you can apply to restore your status as a visitor if:

  1. You’re still in Canada and within the 90-day restoration window
  2. You explain why you failed to apply on time
  3. You meet visitor eligibility requirements (proof of funds, intention to leave Canada)

What Is the Valid Period for Restoration?

You have exactly 90 days from the date your status expired to apply for restoration. This is non-negotiable — if you miss this window, you may be subject to removal and barred from future applications.

IRCC Fees for Restoration of Status in Canada (2025)

Permit Type

Restoration Fee

Permit Fee

Total Payable

Visitor

      $239.75

                    $100

      $300

Student

      $239.75

                    $150

      $350

Worker

      $239.75

    $155 (or more, depend category)

      $355+

All fees are payable online at the time of submitting your application via the IRCC portal.

Can You Work or Study While on Restoration of Status?

No. You must not work or study while your restoration application is being processed.

You must wait until IRCC approves your restoration request and issues a new valid permit. Working or studying during the restoration period may result in refusal and further immigration consequences.

Documents Required to Apply for Restoration of Status in Canada

To apply for restoration, you’ll need:

  1. Completed application forms (e.g., IMM 5708, IMM 5710, IMM 5709, depending on your status)
  2. Copy of your expired permit
  3. Letter of explanation outlining the reason for the  overstay or lapse
  4. Proof you meet the requirements of the requested status (e.g., admission letter for students, job offer for workers)
  5. Payment receipt for government fees

Let Lakes Land Immigration handle all documentation, forms, and legal explanations on your behalf for the best chance of approval.

Why Choose Lakes Land Immigration?

✔️ IRCC-Authorized Immigration Consultant in Winnipeg
 ✔️ Years of experience with restoration, status loss, and refusals
 ✔️ Fast, compliant, and complete application submission
 ✔️ Multilingual team serving clients across India, Philippines, Nigeria, Pakistan, and more
 ✔️ Top-rated on Google Maps and trusted across Manitoba

We understand how stressful status loss can be. We’re here to help — no judgment, just solutions.

 

Why Choose Us

Work with regulated Canadian immigration consultants (RCICs) who know the law and care about your case.

We tailor every application to your unique background, goals, and eligibility

No hidden steps or fees—just honest advice and regular updates throughout.

Years of experience and attention to detail mean higher approval chances.

From consultation to post-arrival, we’re with you every step of the journey.