I need to extend my study permit but my passport is about to expire and I can't obtain a new one in time. What should I do?

It is strongly recommended that you consult with the embassy or consultate responsible for your country of citizenship(s) well in advance to learn about how and when you can renew your passport.  

You must submit an application to extend your study permit before it expires in order to maintain valid student status in Canada and continue studying, even if this means applying with a passport that is about to expire.  Although as per Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) rules your study permit cannot be extended beyond your passport expiry date, applying to extend your study permit from inside Canada will allow you to benefit from maintained status while you await processing.  This means that if you apply to extend your study permit before it expires you can remain in Canada and continue studying (and working, if eligible) until you receive a decision on your study permit extension application. 

If you are submitting your extension application with a passport that is about to expire, our recommended approach is to include the following in your application:

• a letter of explanation detailing the following:
  • why you have not been able to renew your passport
  • when you are expecting to receive your renewed passport (if known)
  • state your intention to provide a copy of the new passport to IRCC via the IRCC webform when you receive it, and ask that the processing officer contact you if you have not yet submitted your new passport by the time your study permit extension application is being processed
• any supporting documents that prove that you have begun the passport renewal process (e.g. proof of passport application submission, receipt of payment, communication between you and the resonsible authority, etc.) and/or docments that serve as evidence of your inability to renew your passport (if applicable) at this time (e.g. correspondence you have received regarding embassy closures etc.)

When you receive your new passport, immediately submit it to IRCC via the IRCC web form and request that it be attached to your study permit extension application.

Please note that it is at the discretion of the IRCC visa officer whether they will consider your application while your passport renewal is pending.  

If you have any questions, reach out to an International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist for help.