CANADA
Study Permit Extension + SOWP Extension + Kids Extension
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Canada Study Permit Extension + Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) Extension + Kids Visa Extension – Complete Family Guide
If you and your family are already in Canada and your permits are expiring soon, you must apply for extensions on time to maintain legal status.
Many families make mistakes that lead to refusals, loss of status, or removal from Canada. This guide explains the complete process to extend:
Student’s Study Permit
Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP)
Children’s Visitor/Study Status
1. Why Extensions Are Important
In Canada, every family member has separate legal status. Even if one person forgets to apply, it can create serious immigration problems.
You must apply before your current permit expires to stay legally in Canada under maintained status (previously called implied status).
2. Study Permit Extension
If your course is not finished and your study permit is expiring, you must extend it.
Who Needs a Study Permit Extension?
✔ Course duration increased
✔ You changed program
✔ Failed subjects and need extra semester
✔ Passport expiry caused short permit validity
Documents Required
Passport copy
Current study permit
Letter of enrollment from college
Transcript or attendance proof
Tuition fee receipt
Proof of funds
Explanation letter (if delay in studies)
Immigration officers want proof that you are a genuine, active student.
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Not attending classes
- Poor academic performance without explanation
- No fee payment proof
- Gaps in study history
3. Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) Extension
If your spouse is in Canada on a SOWP based on your study permit, they must also extend their work permit.
When Is SOWP Extension Approved?
Spouse work permit extension depends on the student’s status.
The student must be:
✔ Enrolled full-time in eligible program
✔ Studying at a DLI (Designated Learning Institution)
✔ In a program that qualifies spouse eligibility
Documents Required for Spouse
Passport
Current work permit
Marriage certificate
Student’s study permit
Student enrollment letter
Student transcript
Proof of relationship
Proof of funds
If the student is not actively studying, spouse extension can be refused.
4. Children Visa Extension (Visitor or Study Permit)
Children in Canada must also maintain status.
Types of Extensions for Kids
| Child Age | Status Type |
|---|---|
| School-age | Study Permit |
| Younger children | Visitor Record |
Documents Required
Passport
Current visa/status document
Parent’s study/work permit
School letter (if studying)
Proof of funds
5. When Should You Apply?
You must apply before the expiry date of your current permits.
Best time to apply:
2–3 months before expiry
Late application can result in:
Loss of status
Restoration fees
Possible refusal
6. What is Maintained Status?
If you apply before expiry:
✔ You can stay in Canada
✔ Student can continue studying
✔ Spouse can continue working
But you cannot leave Canada until decision is made.
7. Can Family Extensions Affect PR Later?
Yes.
Refusals, status gaps, or unauthorized work/study can negatively affect future:
PGWP
PR applications
Visa approvals
Keeping your family status clean is extremely important.
Final Words
Extending Study Permit + SOWP + Kids Status together keeps your family legally secure in Canada. One mistake can affect the entire family’s future immigration plans.
If your permits are expiring soon, start the extension process early and ensure all documents are accurate and complete.
A well-prepared application protects your:
✔ Legal stay
✔ Work rights
✔ Children’s education
✔ Future PR chances
