Status restoration (restoration of temporary resident status)
Statutory definition
IRPR ss 182, 196, and 222 allow an officer to restore the status of a visitor, worker, or student respectively if the applicant applies within 90 days of the expiry of their status, has continued to meet the applicable criteria throughout the period of unlawful status, and pays the applicable fee. Restoration is discretionary — the officer must be satisfied the person merits the restoration.
Explanation
Status restoration is the remedy for persons who did not apply for renewal before their status expired and do not have implied status. The 90-day window is strict — after 90 days, restoration is not available and the person must either apply for status from scratch (if eligible) or depart Canada. During the period of unlawful status (between expiry and restoration), the person may not work or study. The restoration application is separate from a renewal application; both may be needed to regularise the person's situation.