Restoration of Status
Apply within 90 days of losing status to legally remain in Canada and request the same permit type back.
Who qualifies for restoration
Restoration is available to former visitors, workers and students who lost status within the last 90 days. You must continue to meet the requirements of the permit you're asking to be restored, and you cannot work or study during the restoration period until a decision is made.
What it costs and how long it takes
Restoration carries a $239.75 government fee on top of the underlying permit fee. Processing varies — typically 90–180 days for restoration of work or study permits. You remain in Canada legally while IRCC processes the request.
When restoration is the wrong answer
If your status expired more than 90 days ago, restoration is not available and you must leave Canada and apply from outside. We will tell you in the free assessment whether restoration is viable or whether departure-and-reapply is the cleaner path.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep working during restoration?
No. Once your work permit expires, you must stop working immediately even if you file for restoration. Continuing to work creates a separate non-compliance issue that complicates the file.
What if I'm at day 95?
Restoration is not available after day 90. We assess whether a fresh application from outside Canada, or in narrow cases an authorization to return to Canada (ARC), is required.
Will restoration affect future applications?
A successful restoration restores your legal status and the gap is recorded but not held against you. A pattern of repeated non-compliance does affect future officer discretion.
Related pages
Free assessment, then a written plan
Tell us your status, employer and timeline. We respond with a written eligibility plan before any retainer.
- 1Book a 15-minute introConfidential, no obligation.
- 2Licensed RCIC reviews your caseGet a personalized pathway.
- 3Clear next steps, transparent feesWritten strategy sent to you.