A minor studying in Canada can extend their study permit. Below is some important information regarding the septs and requirements for extending a minor study permit in Canada. 

 

When to Extend a Minor Study Permit

An application to extend a minor's study permit must be completed before the expiration date to avoid interruptions to their education. It is recommended that the extension be submitted at least 30 days before the permit expires.

Permit extensions are also required if there is a change to the level of education or the school the minor is attending. Extensions are also required if the minor is continuing their studies beyond the initial authorized period of study.

 

Requirements for Extending a Minor Study Permit

1. A New Letter of Acceptance (If Applicable)

If the minor is changing schools, programs, or entering a new grade level, a new Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada will be required. If the minor is remaining in the same school and program, the original acceptance letter may still be valid, but it is recommended that you verify with the educational institution. 

 

2. Provincial Attestation Letter or Territorial Attestation Letter

Most study permit applicants need to provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL). There are exceptions to this, including students who are applying for a study permit extension at the same DLI and level of study their current study permit. A full list of the exemptions can be found here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/get-documents/provincial-attestation-letter.html 

 

3. Custodianship Declaration

Proof of custodianship must be updated to confirm that the custodianship agreement with the minor’s guardian in Canada is up to date. If the custodian remains the same, you will simply be confirming that they will continue to take responsibility for the minor. If the minor will be under the care of a new custodian, a new custodianship declaration must be completed. 

 

4. Updated Parental Consent

An updated parental consent may be necessary. This document provides the parents’ or legal guardians’ agreement to the extended study permit and confirmation that they are aware of the minor’s continued stay in Canada.

 

5. Valid Passport

It is important to ensure that the minor’s passport is valid for the entire duration of their extended study permit. If the passport is soon to expire, it is important to renew it before applying for the extension.

 

6. Proof of Financial Support

Similar to when the minor first applied to study in Canada, it is necessary to demonstrate that the minor’s financial needs will be met for the duration of their extended stay. This includes tuition, living expense, accommodations, and other costs associated with their stay in Canada. Most provinces except Quebec require a minimum of $20,635 per family member. Please keep in mind that this does not include the tuition fees. For more details on the amount of funds required please visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/get-documents/financial-support.html

 

7. Application Forms & Fees

To apply for an extension, the appropriate study permit extension forms (IMM 5709) must be completed and application fees paid ($150CAD).

 

To summarize, it is possible to extend a minor study permit in Canada. However, it is important to plan ahead and apply for an extension in a timely manner to ensure the minor’s study permit remains valid and they can continue their education without interruption. While the process may seem daunting, assistance can be provided by consulting with a licensed immigration consultant and referencing the official Canadian immigration website below: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/extend-study-permit/how-to-apply.html