Millions of International Student Visas Are Expiring in Canada This Year: Here’s What It Means for You
Summary of Key Points:
Nearly 5 million international student visas are expected to expire in Canada this year. Students must be proactive in order to secure their future in the country.
Students aren’t the only ones affected—government agencies, employers and educational institutions are also preparing for the impact. The Canadian labour market and economy rely on skilled international graduates to fill labour shortages, particularly in technology, healthcare and engineering fields.
There are a variety of options for students who have an expiring visa. You can apply for a study permit extension, transition to a post-graduation work permit, explore Provincial Nominee Programs or apply for permanent residency.
If you’re planning to stay in Canada, apply early, gather your required documents, schedule a required IME and consult an immigration expert. You may be required to leave the country if you fail to renew or transition your visa before your expiration date.
Millions of International Student Visas Are Expiring in Canada This Year: Here’s What It Means for You
In 2025, Canada is expected to see an unprecedented number of international student visas expiring—around 4.9 million students could be affected. This situation presents both challenges and opportunities for those seeking to extend their stay, transition to work permits or pursue permanent residency.
With immigration rules evolving and pathways becoming more competitive, students must be proactive to secure their future in Canada. Here’s everything you need to know about the expirations, including what to do if your visa is about to expire.
Learn More: How Many Permanent Residents Will Canada Accept This Year?
Who’s Impacted By the Visa Expirations
The large number of expiring student visas signals a crucial moment in Canada’s international education landscape. For many students, their time in Canada represents a gateway to career advancement and permanent residency. However, failing to take timely action could result in a series of consequences.
Given the sheer number of expiring visas, government agencies, employers and educational institutions are also preparing for the impact. Universities and colleges may see fluctuations in enrollment, businesses could face workforce shortages and immigration services may experience processing backlogs. Understanding the full scope of this issue is essential for students and policymakers alike.
The expirations also impact the Canadian labour market and economy. Many industries rely on skilled international graduates to fill labour shortages, particularly in technology, healthcare and engineering fields. If a significant portion of students fail to transition to work permits or other visa categories, there could be a notable impact on the workforce. Employers who rely on international talent may need to adjust hiring strategies and policymakers may introduce temporary measures to retain skilled graduates.
Options for Students Nearing a Visa Expiration
An expiring visa does not mean your time in Canada has to come to an end. Students are able to apply for an extension or transition to a work permit. Here are some options to explore.
Apply for a Study Permit Extension
If you haven’t completed your program, you may apply for a study permit extension. This requires proof of continued enrollment, good academic standing and sufficient financial support. You must also pay a $150 study permit fee.
Applications should be submitted well before the expiration date to avoid processing delays that could impact legal status. Be aware that it could take up to 120 days to process the extension.
You may also be eligible for a "bridging permit" to continue studying while your application is being processed.
Transition to a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Students who have completed an eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI) can apply for a PGWP, which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the program length.
The PGWP provides valuable work experience that can contribute to permanent residency eligibility through programs such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.
It's important to apply within 180 days of receiving a final transcript or graduation confirmation.
Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Several provinces offer nomination programs specifically for international graduates who wish to stay and work in Canada.
Eligibility criteria vary, but generally students with job offers in high-demand fields have a higher chance of securing a nomination.
Some provinces have dedicated streams for graduates of local institutions, providing a faster pathway to permanent residency.
Apply for Permanent Residency (PR) Directly
Some students may qualify to apply for permanent residency immediately through Express Entry or other federal/provincial pathways.
Strong language proficiency, skilled work experience and high educational qualifications improve the chances of approval.
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) also provide alternative PR pathways for students who studied in designated regions.
Learn More:Canada’s Express Entry Draw: What It Is & How It Works
Preparing for an Expiring Visa
If you’re planning to stay in Canada after your visa expires, follow these key steps:
Start early. Begin researching visa options at least six months before expiration to allow for processing times.
Gather documentation. Required documents may include proof of studies, financial statements, job offers and medical exams.
Undergo an Immigration Medical Examination. Many visa categories require an IME, conducted by one of our Panel Physician experts.
Consult an immigration expert. Professional advice from an immigration lawyer or consultant can help navigate complex applications and avoid costly mistakes.
Monitor processing times. Check processing times to ensure applications are submitted in time to maintain legal status.
Check for policy updates. Immigration policies may change, and staying updated on any new announcements can help students make informed decisions.
Secure financial proof. Many visa applications require proof of sufficient funds, and having bank statements, scholarship letters or sponsor details ready is essential.
Apply for jobs in advance. Those transitioning to work permits should begin applying for jobs early to increase their chances of securing employment before their visa expires.
Potential Consequences
There are a number of things that can happen if you fail to take action before your visa expires.
First, you could lose your legal status. Students who do not renew or transition their visas before their expiration date will become out of status and may be required to leave Canada. This may also cause you to be ineligible for future work permits, job opportunities, PR applications or even re-entry into Canada in the future.
Being forced to leave the country can also lead to financial and personal distress including financial losses, disrupted career plans and emotional stress.
Act Now to Secure Your Future in Canada
An expiring visa can be nerve-racking, but getting a head start in the process allows you to continue building your career and life in Canada. Consulting with immigration professionals, staying informed about policy changes and preparing documentation in advance will help avoid disruptions and ensure a successful transition.
If you’re nearing your visa expiration, start your application process sooner than later. Don’t forget that Panel Physician can help with the required IME. Book an appointment at one of our locations today.
