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IMM 5709: Change Conditions or Extend Stay as a Student

Last updated · Reviewed by RCIC Reviewer · Review cadence 60 days

Quick answer

IMM 5709 is used by study permit holders who want to extend their stay as a student or change the conditions attached to their current study permit while remaining in Canada. It is generally submitted before the current permit expires, along with proof of continued enrolment and other supporting evidence.

Key takeaways

  • IMM 5709 is used to extend a study permit or change its conditions from within Canada.
  • It should generally be submitted before the current study permit expires to help maintain status.
  • Proof of continued enrolment at a designated learning institution is typically required.
  • Processing takes time, so applicants often benefit from applying well ahead of the expiry date.
  • Maintained status rules may allow continued study while an extension is in process, if applied for before expiry.
  • Always use the current version of the form downloaded directly from canada.ca.

Purpose

IMM 5709 allows a study permit holder in Canada to apply to extend their permit or change its conditions, for example continuing studies at the same or a different designated learning institution. It collects updated information about the applicant's program of study and current status to support IRCC's review of the extension or change request.

This guide explains the form's purpose only and does not reproduce its content. Always complete the current version from the official IRCC page.

When to use it

Use IMM 5709 when a study permit holder in Canada needs to extend their permit before it expires, or needs to change the conditions currently attached to their study permit.

  • Used to extend a study permit before the current one expires.
  • Used to request a change in the conditions attached to an existing study permit.
  • Not used by applicants applying for a first study permit from outside Canada, who use a different form instead.

Required information

Applicants generally need proof of continued enrolment or acceptance, their current study permit details, and evidence of continued financial support before completing this form. Always download the current version of this form directly from the official IRCC form page before completing it, since IRCC rejects older versions and applications submitted on outdated forms can be returned unprocessed.

Preparation tips

  • Apply well before your current study permit expires to reduce the risk of a gap in authorized status.
  • Gather proof of enrolment or a new letter of acceptance if changing institutions or programs.
  • Download the current version of IMM 5709 directly from the official IRCC page before applying.
  • Confirm maintained status rules that may apply while your extension application is being processed.

Common mistakes

  • Waiting too close to the expiry date to apply, risking a gap between permits.
  • Not including updated proof of enrolment when changing institutions or programs.
  • Assuming continued study is automatically authorized without confirming maintained status rules apply to your situation.
  • Using an outdated version of the form instead of the current one from canada.ca.

Frequently asked questions

When should I submit IMM 5709?
Before your current study permit expires, since applying early helps avoid a gap in authorized status and gives processing time before your permit runs out.
Can I keep studying while my extension is being processed?
In many cases, maintained status rules allow continued study if you applied before your current permit expired, but confirm current rules apply to your specific situation.
Do I use IMM 5709 for my first study permit application?
No. First-time study permit applicants from outside Canada generally use a different application form; IMM 5709 is for extensions or condition changes from within Canada.
What if I am changing designated learning institutions?
Include an updated letter of acceptance from the new institution and follow current IRCC instructions on notifying them of the change alongside your extension request.

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Official sources

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Government requirements change. Confirm details against the official sources above, and read our editorial standards.