Important Update: IRCC Changes Rules for Maintained Status in Canada (Effective May 28, 2025)

Canada’s Immigration landscapes is always evolving and staying up to date is crucial if you’re temporary resident in the country. On May 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduce a significant change to the rules around maintained status for temporary residents who submit more than one extension application.

What it is means for you, and how to stay on the right side of the rules.

What is Maintained Status? Maintained status (formerly known as implied status) allows temporary residents to stay in Canada Legally under the same conditions of their expired permit while IRCC processes an extension application- as long as that application was submitted before the permit’s expiry.

YOU CAN WORK or STUDY (depending on your permit type) during this period if your original permits allowed it.

WHAT HAS CHANGED?

OLD RULE (Before May 28, 2025)

If your First extension application was refused, you had already submitted a second application:

·       You could still stay in Canada while the second application was processed, EVEN IF YOUR ORIGNAL PERMIT HAS EXPIRED.

·       However, you couldn’t work or study unless explicitly authorized.

Schedule a FREE consultation with RCIC today

NEW RULE (Effective May 28, 2025)

NOW, under new rules

·       If your FIRST application is refused, and your SECOND application was submitted after your permit expired, you are no longer considered to have maintained status.

·       As a result, your second application will be automatically refused and returned back to you.

·       You will be out of Status and must apply for restoration of status, if you are eligible.

If you are a temporary resident holding (visitor, work, or student visa), this change affects your ability to stay in Canada legally after a refusal. Relying on a second application after your permit has expired can now jeopardize your status.

What should you do?

1.      Submit your extension application early – before the expiration of your current permit.

2.      If your application is refused, consult an immigration expert immediately to discuss restoration or reapplication options.

3.      IT IS A BIG MISTAKE by assuming that you can stay just because you submitted another application – the NEW RULES say otherwise.

Need Help Navigating Maintained Status? At Admire Immigration, we specialize in guiding students, workers, and visitor through Canada’s evolving immigration policies. If you’re unsure about your status or need help in submitting an extension on time, our team us here to assist.

Book your first free consultation today and avoid falling out of status under the new 2025 regulations.