IRCC Introduces Major Changes to Maintained Status for Temporary Residents in 2025
IRCC Introduces Major Changes to Maintained Status for Temporary Residents in 2025
On May 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) implemented notable policy changes that significantly impact how maintained status applies to temporary residents in Canada. These revisions are particularly relevant for individuals on study permits, work permits, and visitor visas who submit applications to extend their stay in Canada.
What Is Maintained Status?
Maintained status allows foreign nationals in Canada to legally remain and continue their previously authorized activities (such as working or studying) while they await a decision on their extension application—provided the application was submitted before the current permit expired.
What Has Changed?
1. Clarification on Multiple Applications
A key change in the 2025 update is how maintained status is handled when multiple extension applications are submitted. While applicants were previously uncertain whether submitting a second extension application affected their status, IRCC has now clarified that maintained status continues to apply only to the initial application filed before permit expiry. Any additional applications do not extend or reset maintained status.
2. Leaving Canada Voids Maintained Status
Temporary residents under maintained status who leave Canada before their new permit is approved will lose their legal right to continue working or studying upon return. Re-entering Canada does not reinstate maintained status—they must wait for the new permit to be issued before resuming authorized activities.
3. Each Family Member Must Apply Separately
If family members (e.g., spouses or children) also wish to maintain their status, they must submit their own extension applications individually. Status is not automatically extended by association with the principal applicant.
4. If Your Application Is Refused
If an extension application is refused, maintained status ends immediately. The individual must stop working or studying at once. They may be eligible to apply for restoration of status, but this must be done within 90 days of the refusal notice.
5. Documentation and Proof
Individuals on maintained status should keep proof of their expired permit and submission confirmation (such as an Acknowledgment of Receipt or payment receipt from IRCC) in case they need to demonstrate their legal right to remain in Canada during processing.
Why These Changes Matter
These updates provide clarity for temporary residents navigating Canada’s immigration system and underscore the importance of timing, documentation, and understanding the limits of maintained status.
IRCC's revised guidelines help ensure that individuals do not unknowingly fall out of status or violate the terms of their stay—particularly if they are relying on maintained status to continue working or studying.
If you're unsure how these changes apply to your situation or need help maintaining or restoring your legal status in Canada, reach out to Foothills Immigration anytime.
