(1)  A prospective adoptive parent, up to and including 30 days before the day on which his or her approval expires under regulation 21(1) , may apply in writing to the Secretary or a principal officer for an extension of his or her approval as a prospective adoptive parent.

(2)  On receipt of an application for an extension under subregulation (1) and subject to a review of the prospective adoptive parent's continuing suitability to adopt a child, the Secretary or principal officer may extend the approval of the prospective adoptive parent for a period not exceeding 2 years.