If you are staying in Canada as a visitor and want to extend your visit as your current authorized entry is about to expire, you can apply for a visitor record.

A visitor record is not a visa. It allows the visitor to extend their current stay in Canada by providing a status document that indicates a new expiry date.

A visitor visa, be it single or multiple-entry, allows you to legally enter Canada, but it does not determine how long you can stay for. A typical visitor can be authorized to stay in Canada for a duration of 6 months at a time. At the end of this period, you must leave Canada as your legal temporary status will expire.

If you want to extend your stay, then you must apply while your temporary resident status is still valid. Even if you are from a visa-exempt country, if you want to extend your stay for more than 6 months, you will need to apply for a visitor record.

Who is Eligible for a Visitor Visa Extension?

To be eligible for a visitor record or to change your status from a foreign worker or international student to a visitor, you should apply at least 30 days before the expiration date of your current status.

The expiry date may be on the entry stamp of your passport or on your current status document. If there is not date, then the expiry date is typically 6 months from the day you entered Canada.

What are the Requirements of a Visitor Visa Extension?

To be eligible for a visa extension, you must be in Canada as a visitor or be a study permit or work permit holder.

A Canadian visa extension is for those who hold legal and valid status in the country at the time of the application.

Can I stay in Canada while waiting for a visitor visa extension?

You can stay in Canada as long as your temporary resident status remains valid. Therefore, you must apply for an extension before that status expires.

Is there a limit to how many times you can extend your visitor visa?

There is no limit as to how many times you can extend your stay. The approval of your application depends on the purpose of your visit, the history of your stay, and if there is a valid reason to continue your stay.

What is the maximum extension that can be provided?

You are required to justify the extension of your stay and demonstrate you continue to meet eligibility requirements. The duration of an extension will be determined on a case by case basis.

Can I apply for an extension after my visitor visa expires?

If your visitor visa has expired, then you are not eligible to apply for an extension. However, if you want to continue your stay, then you may apply for restoration within 90 days or, you must leave Canada.

What happens if you overstay in Canada?

You can apply for a visitor record extension if you plan to stay beyond your authorized stay. If your status has already expired, then you may be able to apply to restore your status, provided you meet the requirements.

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