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New Canada visa rules: Maintained status restrictions for temporary residents explained

Canada has long offered a lifeline to temporary residents whose visas or permits are about to expire: maintained status—previously called implied status. This provision allows individuals to legally stay in the country while waiting for a decision on their extension application, as long as the application is submitted before the expiry of their current permit.

But in a significant policy shift, the Canadian government has revised how multiple applications are treated under maintained status. The change affects visitors, students, and workers in Canada and makes careful application timing more important than ever.


📌 What Is Maintained Status?

Maintained status allows temporary residents—those on work, study, or visitor permits—to remain legally in Canada after their initial permit expires, provided they have submitted a valid extension application before that expiration date.

While waiting for a decision, individuals may generally:

  • Live in Canada legally;

  • Continue to work or study, but only under the conditions of their expired permit.

This grace period is crucial for those navigating long processing times and unexpected delays—but recent changes to how additional applications are handled under maintained status may impact that sense of security.


⚠️ New Policy on Multiple Applications: A Shift in Interpretation

Previously, many temporary residents filed multiple applications—often as a safeguard. For example, if the first application was flawed or at risk of being refused, a second application might buy more time.

Under the new policy, this safety net has been removed. Here’s how it works now:

  1. If you’re already on maintained status (i.e., your first permit has expired, and you’re waiting on a decision), and you submit a second extension application:

    • If your first application is refused, your second application will also be refused and returned.

    • Your maintained status ends immediately, and you are considered out of status in Canada.

  2. If you file a second application before your permit expires (and while your first is still pending), you can remain in Canada legally while the second is processed.

    • However, you will not be authorized to work or study until that second application is approved.

This distinction is subtle but critical.


đź•’ Why This Matters: Real-World Consequences

This policy shift has immediate implications for international students, foreign workers, and visitors:

  • Working or studying without proper authorization after the first application is refused could put your future in Canada at risk.

  • Filing a second application too late could mean losing your legal status.

  • Once out of status, individuals must apply for restoration, which comes with strict eligibility criteria and added processing time.

The new rules reflect a stricter interpretation of IRPA regulations and remove a previously relied-upon safety net for those trying to remain in Canada lawfully.


🔍 TRP Holders: A Special Case With No Maintained Status

It’s important to differentiate between Temporary Resident Status and a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)—two terms that are often confused but are legally distinct.

  • Temporary Resident Status is granted to people legally in Canada as visitors, workers, or students. They can extend this status under Section R181, with maintained status applying if the extension application is filed before expiry.

  • Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs), however, are discretionary permits issued to individuals who would otherwise be inadmissible—due to medical issues, past criminal records, or other barriers.

For TRP holders:

  • There is no maintained status during the renewal process.

  • They must wait for approval of a new TRP before resuming any work or study activities.

  • Each permit is treated as a standalone application, without the protections that typical temporary residents receive under Section R181.


đź’ˇ Tips for Staying Compliant in Canada

With these new rules in play, here are a few essential tips for maintaining your legal status:

✅ Submit your extension application early—well before your current permit expires.
âś… Do not rely on a second application to protect your stay if you’re already on maintained status.
✅ If your first application is refused, stop working or studying immediately unless you’ve already received a new valid permit.
âś… If you’re out of status, apply for restoration quickly, and consult an immigration expert to navigate your options.
âś… TRP holders must exercise extra caution, as there is no implied or maintained status for this category.


📝 Conclusion: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

The new policy on maintained status and multiple applications signals a more rigid immigration framework in Canada—one where timing, accuracy, and preparation are essential. The government’s aim is to streamline processes and prevent misuse, but it also places more responsibility on applicants to understand their legal obligations.

For temporary residents in Canada—especially those planning to extend their stay—this update is a call to plan ahead, seek proper advice, and avoid the pitfalls that can lead to status loss.

For trusted travel, visa, and study abroad guidance, follow RoutePal for timely updates and expert tips.