.jpg)
When an international student in Canada experiences an unforeseen event—whether it's a health problem, a family emergency, or the sudden interruption of their academic program—the Canadian immigration system provides a temporary permit that protects their status: the Authorized Leave.
If you have had to leave your university or college , it is important to follow legal guidance.
In this blog, I will tell you what types of authorized licenses are available depending on your reasons, how long the permit lasts, and what practical recommendations you should follow to make the most of it while you resolve your difficulties.
Authorized Leave is a legal resource supported by the Canadian government that allows an enrolled international student to temporarily pause their studies without losing their immigration status.
This suspension is not arbitrary; it is a formally justified pause.
The reasons can be various: for example, having a medical condition, being pregnant, or due to reasons specific to the designated Learning Institution (DLI).
The pause must be formally supported by the institution (DLI) under specific assumptions contemplated by law.
According to these contexts:
Note: If the student or their school postponed the start date of their program, then they must begin their program the following semester, even if it begins before the standard 150 days, and obtain an updated acceptance letter.
You cannot work on or off campus during your Authorized Leave , even if your study permit indicates that you have a valid and current license to work in Canada.
Exception: If your DLI temporarily closed due to a strike and you are authorized to work on or off campus, you will still be authorized to do so for up to 150 days.
This permit grants Up to 150 days without studying . The period begins from the official date the academic break is approved or begins, so it is essential to keep track of the time to avoid exceeding the limit.
This period serves to activate an action plan while the problem is resolved, absolute rest is observed, the pregnancy ends, or the individual is relocated within the educational system.
On September 18, 2026, the Language Academy of Canada (ILAC) permanently suspended its operations. In this case, the standard recommendation for taking advantage of the leave is to act immediately and use the maximum 150-day period to resolve your situation.
Do you need guidance on using Authorize Leave ? Contact us and we'll be happy to help.
At Immiland Law Professional Corporation, we serve the immigrant community in Canada. Our team of lawyers, regulated consultants, and certified educational advisors can guide you.
Through the various departments of our company, we offer the following advisory channels:
I hope this guide is helpful. If you know a student who needs help with their learning process, please share this article.
See you in the next blog post, where we'll continue to help you build your Canadian dream with empathy, dedication, and professionalism.
With love,
Immiland Law Professional Corporation
