Tip 2:  Keep track of expiry dates and plan ahead for travel

If your passport and/or any of your immigration documents will expire before the end of your degree, please contact an International Student Advisor for assistance at least six months in advance.

This is especially important if you plan to travel, as you may need to complete all or some of the following steps, depending on your personal situation:

• Step 1: Passport renewal
  If you need to renew your passport, consult with your country’s embassy or consulate in Canada at least six months in advance. A list of foreign representatives in Canada can be found on the Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada website. Processing times will vary.
   
  
• Step 2: Study Permit renewal
  If you need to renew your study and work permits (and any family members' documents), plan to apply at least four months in advance of expiration, if possible. Instructions can be downloaded on the International Services for Students' website. Check processing times on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website (updated weekly).
  
  Tip: When you receive your new study permit, send a copy to the BC Medical Services Plan to renew your Carecard (or, if you are a TSSU employee, submit a copy to Human Resources in Strand Hall). You will also need to renew your Social Insurance Number (SIN) through Service Canada.
   
  
• Step 3: Temporary Resident Visa application
  If you are a citizen of a country which requires a temporary resident visa (TRV or entry visa) in addition to a study permit, ensure it is valid for re-entry into Canada. (See list of countries)
  
  You can apply for a new single or multiple-entry TRV at the visa office responsible for your home country, or by mailing your passport and application to the Case Processing Pilot in Ottawa before your trip.  See the CIC website for instructions. A handout is also available on the International Services for Students' website.
  
  Processing times for applying to the Case Processing Pilot in Ottawa may increase during peak travel times such as summer or as holidays approach. Check CIC's website for updated time-frames.  If possible, apply at least two months before your expected departure.  If you will be travelling sooner, chat with an International Student Advisor  about your options.
  
  Tip:  An agreement between Canada and the United States allows you to re-enter Canada without a temporary resident visa after a visit solely to the US. You will need a valid passport and a valid study permit to re-enter Canada. To be safe, print out the section of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act that mentions this temporary resident visa exemption policy and take it with you - scroll down to Division 5 - 190 (3) (f) to view the policy. You should also always travel with a current confirmation of enrollment letter, downloadable from your Student Information System account.
   
  
• Step 4: Other visa applications
  If you require a visa for another country, a list of foreign representatives in Canada can be found on the Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada website.
  

These documents typically must be applied for in sequence; therefore, for students renewing several documents, the entire process could take up to six months!