If you are currently in Canada as a visitor and wish to extend your stay, you must apply for a visitor record. This document allows you to legally remain in Canada beyond the original expiry date of your visa. However, it is important to note that a visitor record does not guarantee re-entry into Canada if you leave the country.
If your visitor visa expires while your extension application is being processed, you can stay in Canada under maintained status (formerly known as implied status). This means you retain the conditions of your previous visitor status until a decision is made on your application.
If your visitor status has already expired, you may still be eligible to restore your status, provided you continue to meet the initial conditions and apply within the required timeframe.
Documents Required for Entering Canada as a Visitor
When you first arrive in Canada as a visitor, you typically use one of the following documents:
- Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) – Required for visitors from visa-required countries.
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) – Required for visa-exempt travelers arriving by air.
- Valid Passport or Travel Document – Necessary for all visitors to Canada.
If you wish to extend your stay in Canada, you must apply for a visitor record, which is not the same as a visa.
What is a Visitor Record?
A visitor record is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that:
- Grants legal visitor status beyond the original visa expiry date.
- Includes a new expiry date, which is the deadline by which you must leave Canada.
- Does not allow re-entry into Canada once you leave; you will need a new visa or eTA to return.
When to Apply for a Visitor Record
To avoid losing legal status, you must apply for a visitor record before your current status expires. If you are unsure when your status expires, check your:
- Entry stamp on your passport.
- Original visitor visa approval or eTA validity.
Applying before expiry ensures you can stay in Canada while awaiting a decision under maintained status.
Leaving and Returning to Canada
A visitor record allows you to stay in Canada longer, but it does not guarantee re-entry if you leave. If you plan to travel outside Canada (except to the U.S.), you must have a:
- Valid visitor visa (if required) or
- Valid electronic travel authorization (eTA)
Without these, you may not be allowed back into Canada.
Extending Your Stay in Canada – Different Scenarios
1. Students
- If a student’s study permit expires, they may apply for restoration of their status and a new study permit.
- If eligible, they may also apply for a work permit while applying for restoration.
- The work permit application will only be processed after the study permit is approved.
2. Workers
- If a temporary worker’s work permit expires, they can apply for restoration within 90 days.
- They may also apply for a study permit if they meet the requirements.
- The study permit will only be considered after the work permit and restoration applications are approved.
3. Visitors
- Visitors who have lost their status may apply for restoration as a temporary resident.
- They may also apply for a work or study permit while restoring their visitor status, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
- The applicant must pay both the restoration fee and the work/study permit fee.
4. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) Holders
- TRP holders whose permit has expired are not eligible for restoration.
- They must apply for a new TRP and prove they meet all requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
Why Choose Golden Eagle Immigration?
Extending your visitor status in Canada can be a complex process, and any errors in the application may lead to delays or rejections. At Golden Eagle Immigration, we provide expert guidance to help you navigate the visitor record application and restoration process efficiently.
📞 Contact us today for professional assistance with your visitor extension in Canada!