Maple News reports that individuals in Canada whose temporary status (as workers, students, or visitors) is nearing expiration may legally remain in the country under what is known as ‘maintained status’—provided they apply to extend their stay before their current permit expires.
Formerly known as ‘implied status,’ maintained status allows foreign nationals to stay in Canada under the same conditions as their expired permit while Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processes their new application. This means your ability to work, study, or reside in Canada continues uninterrupted until a decision is made.
Importantly, there is no separate application for maintained status. To qualify, your new application must be submitted to IRCC before 12:00 a.m. UTC on the day your current permit expires. If IRCC receives your renewal after this cutoff, your status is not maintained and you could lose the legal right to stay in Canada.
Maintained status applies to various immigration categories, including work permits, study permits, and visitor records. It also extends to accompanying family members—but only if each person submits their own extension application. If your family holds dependent status based on your permit, they may remain with you under maintained status, assuming you’ve applied on time. However, each person who holds their own permit (e.g., spouses or adult children) must apply individually.
IRCC introduced the term ‘maintained status’ in February 2022, replacing ‘implied status’ to better reflect the legal nature of the protection it offers. Despite the name change, the rules and benefits remain the same.
Maple News encourages all temporary residents planning to extend their stay in Canada to apply well before their status expires to ensure continuity in their legal status and avoid potential complications.
For those uncertain about the process, seeking guidance from a certified immigration lawyer or regulated consultant can make a significant difference. Understanding deadlines and eligibility ensures you can stay, work, or study in Canada without disruption.