🍁 IRCC Update: Maintained Status Rules When Submitting Multiple Applications (Effective May 28, 2025)

As of May 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated its policy on maintained status for temporary residents who submit more than one application to extend their stay in Canada.

These changes affect individuals applying to extend work permits, study permits, or visitor records from inside Canada, especially if they find themselves needing to submit a second application while their first is still being processed or after it’s refused.

At Helping Hands Immigration, we’re breaking down the new rules in plain language to help you understand your options — and avoid mistakes that could jeopardize your status in Canada.

🔗 Official IRCC Source – Maintained Status

🍁 What Is Maintained Status?

Maintained status (formerly “implied status”) allows you to legally stay in Canada under the same conditions as your expired permit while waiting for a decision on your extension application — as long as:

• -You applied before your current status expired, and
• -You remain in Canada.

This may allow you to continue working or studying under the same conditions as your previous permit — depending on what kind of permit you held and what you applied for.

🍁 What’s New?

IRCC now provides clearer rules on what happens when a second application is submitted. Here’s what changed:

🍁 If your second application is submitted before your status expires:

• -You will continue to have maintained status during processing.
• -This applies even if your first application is refused.
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🍁 If your second application is submitted after your status expires:

• You will not have maintained status.
• Your second application will be refused.
• You may be able to apply for restoration of status within 90 days (if eligible).
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🍁 Real-World Examples

 Example 1: Maintained Status Continues

David is on a work permit that expires on July 1. He applies for an extension on June 25, then files a second application on June 30 after receiving a new job offer.

His first application is refused on July 20. Because his second application was submitted before July 1, he continues to have maintained status.

 Example 2: Maintained Status Lost

Maria, a student, applies to extend her study permit before it expires on April 10. Her first application is refused on May 21, and she had a second application on May 20 — after her permit expired.

Because her second application was filed late after expiry of original permit, she does not have maintained status. The second application will be refused, and she will need to apply for restoration of status within 90 days (if eligible).

🍁 Key Reminders

• Submit all extension applications before your status expires.
• If submitting a second application, it must also be on time.
• Leaving Canada while waiting for a decision ends maintained status.
• If your application is rejected as incomplete, it’s treated as never submitted — you must already have another valid application in process to keep status.
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🍁 Final Thoughts from Helping Hands Immigration

IRCC’s updated guidance makes one thing clear: timing is critical. Even a short delay could result in loss of legal status and your right to work or study in Canada.

If you’re unsure about your current situation or need help after a refusal, get in touch with our team at Helping Hands Immigration. We’re here to guide you through it.

⚠️ Disclaimer:

This article is provided by Helping Hands Immigration for general information purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies change frequently, and each case is different. Please always verify with the official IRCC website or contact us directly for advice based on your specific situation.

📞 Have questions? Contact Helping Hands Immigration — we’re happy to help!