Canada Visitor Visa Extension

A Visitor Visa Extension, also known as a visitor record, allows individuals who are already in Canada as visitors to extend their stay beyond the original expiry date of their visa. You must apply for this extension before your current status expires. Once approved, the extension allows you to stay in Canada longer but does not permit re-entry if you leave the country.

Eligibility Requirements

• Legal Status: You must be in Canada as a visitor on a valid temporary resident visa or visitor record.
• Application Before Expiry: Apply for the extension before your current visa or visitor record expires. It’s recommended to apply at least 30 days before the expiration date.
• Intent to Stay Temporarily: Demonstrate that your stay is still temporary, even if extended.
• Proof of Financial Support: Provide proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your extended stay in Canada.
• Good Health: You may be required to undergo a medical examination if extending your stay for a long period.

Application Requirements

• Application Form: Complete the application form for extending your stay as a visitor (IMM 5708).
• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for the entire period of your extended stay.
• Proof of Financial Support: Provide documents such as bank statements or proof of income to show that you can support yourself during the extended stay.
• Reason for Extension: A letter explaining the reason for requesting an extension of your stay in Canada, whether for personal reasons, tourism, or visiting family.
• Application Fee: Pay the required fee for processing your application.

Application Process

1. Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, such as your passport, financial statements, and proof of purpose for extending your stay.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the application for extending your stay as a visitor (IMM 5708).
3. Submit Online or by Mail: Submit your application online through the IRCC website or mail it to the appropriate processing center.
4. Pay the Fees: Pay the visa extension fee, which can be done online during the application process.
5. Await Decision: Wait for the IRCC to process your request. You may receive confirmation of approval, a request for additional documents, or instructions for further steps.

Important Considerations

• Implied Status: If you apply for an extension before your current visa expires, you may remain in Canada under "implied status" while waiting for a decision, meaning you can stay legally until you receive the outcome.
• Overstaying: If you remain in Canada past the expiration of your visa without applying for an extension, you may face legal penalties or difficulties in future visa applications.
• No Re-entry: A visitor visa extension does not allow you to re-enter Canada if you leave. You will need to apply for a new visitor visa if you wish to return to Canada after traveling abroad.