A visa extension may be needed depending on the changing circumstances in the country or in a person’s life. In order to extend one’s stay in Canada, the person needs to apply for a Visitor’s Record. The visitor’s record is a document that helps you get visitor status and extend your stay in Canada. This document needs to be applied before the expiry of your current status in Canada. 

How can I extend my stay in Canada?

If you want to extend your stay in Canada you need to apply for an extension of stay at least 30 days before the expiry of your visa validity date.

What is my visa validity date?

When you enter Canada then your passport would be stamped by an officer that would mention the date till when you can stay in Canada. It is your visa validity date. If there is no stamp then you can stay up to six months in Canada from the date you enter here.

What should I do to extend my stay in Canada?

In order to extend your stay in Canada, you need to apply for a visitor record. It would contain the new date by when you would need to exit Canada. You need to apply for the visitor record before your current immigration status expires. It allows you to extend your stay in Canada.

If you are planning to extend your stay in Canada as a visitor, student or a worker then you need to make sure that:

• You are submitting an application to extend your stay before your current status expires.
• You are meeting all the initial requirements of your stay.
• You are following all the conditions that were the requirement of your current status, such as not working without proper authorization.
• You are meeting the requirements of the category under which you are applying to extend your stay in Canada.

How can we apply for a visitor record?

You need to apply for the visitor record online. Each family member who needs an extension will have to apply for it. It includes the spouse, common law partner and dependent children. 

How long will it take to process my application?

It would take between 3 to 4 months to process an application. It depends on the current working conditions and situations in the country. 

What happens if my application is denied?

You need to apply for a restoration of status within 90 days of getting the refusal notice. You are not allowed to study or work while a decision is being made on your restoration of status. You should also not leave the country because if you leave then you would be treated as if you are making a new entry from outside Canada. 

Can I leave Canada and re-enter with a visitor record?

No, if you leave Canada then you would have to meet the requirements at that time to re-enter Canada. You would need a visitor visa or an eTA to return to Canada.

Who is able to apply for a visitor record?

•       You can apply for a visitor record if you want to extend your stay in Canada as a visitor.
•       You can apply if you want to change your immigration status in Canada:

o   Change from a study permit to a visitor record.

o   Change from a work permit to a visitor record.

Fees: $100.

If you are currently in Canada and looking to extend your stay in Canada. Or if you have overstayed here past the expiry date of your status here as a visitor or a temporary resident, then please contact us at SAM Law. We can help you restore your status in Canada and guide you through the right procedures.