Immigration status changes

As an international student studying in Canada, you require a valid study permit when you enrol in a program of study that is greater than 6 months in duration.  It is your responsibility for ensuring that your study permit is valid throughout your graduate program.

Extend your study permit (Canada)

You are responsible for applying for renewal through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at least 30 days before your study permit expires, particularly, if you are planning to continue studying or are completing degree requirements past the expiry date on your study permit.  Study permits can only be renewed from within Canada.

All changes to your immigration status in Canada are to be reported to GSPA.  This is important to you, as a change to your immigration status may result in a tuition fee reassessment and removal of any awards specifically intended for international students (e.g., International Doctoral Student Award, International Master's Award of Excellence). Tuition and any award adjustments are applied to the term in which valid supporting documentation has been received in GSPA by the tuition and fee arrangement deadline in a term.  Retroactive fee changes for previous terms will not be granted. Visit The Centre website to update your immigration status with the required documentation prior to the term's deadline.

Study permit to permanent resident*

In Canada, permanent resident status permits you to enter, live, study and work in Canada, however, you have not been deemed by IRCC as a Canadian citizen. You must have one of the following documents to claim permanent residency:

• Record of Landing (IMM1000)
• Permanent Resident Card (PRC)
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM5292)

Permanent resident status is attained as of the "Landed on" date indicated on the Record of Landing, not the "Date Issued."

Canadian citizenship*

If you have become a Canadian citizen, provide a copy of either:

• a certificate of Canadian Citizenship, or
• a Canadian Citizenship card

*Students who change their immigration status to permanent resident of Canada or Canadian Citizen may be eligible for scholarships intended for domestic students.

International fee exemptions

For regulations on eligibility for international fee exemptions and if they apply to you, refer to the instructions on How to request an update to your immigration status, found on The Centre's website. If you qualify for and claim exemption under one of the categories, you are required to present supporting documentation to substantiate the claim to GSPA, through the form found on The Centre's website, at the above link.  Alternate or additional documentation to support your claim for exemption may be requested at the discretion of GSPA.

Should you qualify for a fee exemption, your immigration status will still be considered international and you will only be able to be considered for awards available to international students. Students who would otherwise have qualified for the International Doctoral Student Award (IDSA) will no longer be eligible. 

Questions about your immigration documents, working in Canada and other immigration matters? Contact an Immigration Consultant in the Student Success Office.