Introduction:

Losing your study permit or work permit can be a stressful experience for international students in Canada. However, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offers a straightforward process to request a replacement of your lost or stolen immigration document. In this article, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on applying for status verification or a replacement for your lost study permit or work permit.

To apply for verification of status or replacement of a lost immigration document, you need to submit a paper application to IRCC by mail. 

You may request a replacement of a current and valid temporary resident document if it is lost or stolen. You must provide the police report number proving that your current and valid temporary resident document has been lost or stolen. The following documents can be replaced:

• Visitor Record
• Work Permit
• Study Permit
• Temporary Resident Permit

Eligibility and Requirements:

Before you start the replacement process, ensure that you meet the following eligibility criteria:

• You currently possess a valid and active temporary resident document.
• You have lost or had your document stolen, and you can provide a police report as proof of its loss or theft.

Documents you must include:

1. IMM5009 Application form
2. The Document Checklist attached as part of the IMM 5009 application form.
3. Photocopy of one piece of federal or provincial/territorial government-issued photo identification or if unavailable, a photocopy of government-issued or internationally recognized photo identification from outside Canada before you entered Canada. This could include:

• the passport or travel document you used to enter Canada as a permanent resident. If you have never entered as a Canadian permanent resident, include a photocopy of the passport or travel document you used as a temporary resident. Include only copies of the passport or travel document pages showing:
  • Passport number,
  • Date of issue and expiry,
  • Photo, name, date, and place of birth, and
  • Any amendments to your name, date of birth, expiration, or any other information on the document.
• your driver's license (issued by a federal or provincial/territorial authority).
• your photo health card (if applicable)

4. Photocopy of one piece of federal or provincial/territorial government-issued identification with or without a photo, or if unavailable, a photocopy of government-issued or internationally recognized identification from outside Canada before you entered Canada. This could include:
   • your birth certificate.
   • your marriage certificate, if applicable
5. A copy of the fee receipt showing the $30 application fee is paid
   • See how to make payment online on IRCC’s official website.

Important Notes:

Ensure that you carefully prepare all the required documents, as the omission of any necessary document will result in your application being returned without processing.

Do not send your original documents unless specifically requested, as these will not be returned to you.

Submission Process:

After preparing your application package, your next step is to submit it to IRCC by mail. Follow the instructions provided on the IRCC website: Submit the Application.

Additional Resources:

The full IRCC guide for this application is available via this link Guide IMM5545, where you can also find explanations on how to fill out the application form. This guide provides explanations and step-by-step instructions to assist you throughout the application process.

Conclusion:

Losing your study permit or work permit doesn't have to be a daunting experience. By following the outlined process and ensuring you have all the necessary documents in order, you can quickly apply for a replacement and continue your studies or work in Canada without interruption. Remember to consult the IRCC website for the most up-to-date information and instructions.