Temporary residents in Canada who have lost their status as workers or students may now apply for restoration of status as a visitor.

Prior to this change, such foreign nationals may have needed to leave Canada and then seek re-entry as visitors, because restoration of status was limited to the same status they previously held: worker or student.

The change was conveyed in updated official instructions to immigration officers, published on the immigration department’s website on May 1, 2026.

Restoration of status is a process that allows foreign nationals in Canada who have lost their temporary resident status to apply to have it reinstated.

To be eligible, applicants must apply within 90 days of losing their status, remain in Canada until a decision is made, and continue to meet the requirements of the temporary resident status they are applying for.

Having submitted an application for restoration of status—whether as a worker, student, or visitor—does not authorize a foreign national to work or to study.

Foreign nationals must immediately cease working or studying upon losing their work or study authorization.

What this means for temporary foreign workers and international students in Canada

Workers and students who have lost their status and do not have an immediate pathway to a new work permit can now apply to remain in Canada as visitors while they explore their options.

Previously, a foreign national in this position would generally have had to leave Canada and re-enter as a visitor to obtain visitor status. This is no longer necessary, provided the applicant submits their restoration application within 90 days of losing status.

A worker or student applying for restoration as a visitor will need to apply for a visitor record alongside their restoration application, pay the corresponding fees, and satisfy an officer that they meet the requirements of a visitor.

Important caveats

Restoration of status is highly discretionary. Officers asse