Direct answer: file before expiry where the route permits and keep the receipt; do not wait until the last day. Check work requirements, contract and conversion channel, then follow the appointment. While pending, rights depend on the conditions in Article 5(9-bis). Sources: Articles 6 and 5 TUI; checked 24/10/2026.
Who this applies to: A student whose permit expires during conversion and who must prove a timely filing.
Practical steps: 1) check the study permit expiry and file the conversion before that date; 2) keep the receipt, enrolment or exam evidence and employment documents; 3) ask the office handling the conversion which temporary document proves lawful stay while waiting; 4) respect the work limits of the study permit until a decision is issued.
Documents to keep: study permit, conversion or renewal receipt, enrolment, offer/contract and appointments.
Verifiable timing and costs: File before the applicable expiry; the receipt proves pending status but not the outcome.
Exceptions and special cases: Conversion may depend on quota and work category; do not start unauthorised work.
If the procedure stalls: If the application is not accepted, immediately ask which renewal or alternative route preserves status.
Practical example: The student files before expiry, keeps the receipt and uses the contract only within allowed limits.