Do you know the difference between your status and your authorizations?
Many of our customers come to us when it is too late because they do not understand the difference between the status they have and the authorizations they hold. As these two are independent of each other, loosing one of them can have an impact on what you can do or not do for your future in Canada.
One misconception we often encounter with our clients is that because they have a multiple entry visa with a 5 year expiry they believe that are allowed to remain in Canada for five years. This is not true. A visa, be it multiple or single entry and no matter its expiry date, only allows you to book a flight or a ship destined to land in Canada. Without it, the air travel companies are required to deny you stepping onto the plane or ship. They do not provide you with any kind of status in Canada. Status is what allows you to remain in Canadian soil. It is provided to you by the agent at your entry in Canada and it can be of at most 6 months, if you come as a visitor. Before 6 months end, if you wish to continue to stay, you need te renew your status.
Another misconception we hear from our customers is that because they have a study permit, they can work. This is not true, as many conditions are linked to the authorization to work without a work permit while holding a study permit. For example, your authorization to work while you hold a study permit only begins after you have started studying full time while observing all the conditions of your study permit. This mistake often causes a refusal of permanent residence later down the road.
If you are unsure about your status or you need to renew or restore it, don't wait! Book a consultation with us! We will help you safeguard your future.
Is your status is Canada still valid?
When does your status expire?
Here are some situations where your status is expired and you need to do something about it very soon:
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You have entered Canada on a study permit, but you have not started studying as per what was submitted in your file for the study permit application
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You have taken a break from your studies and it's been 150 days or more since your last day of full time studying
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You have entered Canada as a visitor, you did not get a stamp in your passport telling you to leave by a certain date and it is has been 6 months already since you last entered Canada
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Your post-graduate work permit has expired
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Your work permit has expired
Depending on your situation, we may be able to extend your status, change your status or reinstate your last status. This is a complex matter and we take great care at advising you, as this can have a negative impact on your future requests in regards to Canadian immigration. We advise you to book a consultation without delay. Being able to help you sometimes means a matter of hours. Book the consultation below.