Why Extend Your Stay in Canada?

From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the bustling streets of Toronto, Canada offers something for everyone. Extending your stay allows you to:

• Deepen Your Experience: Immerse yourself in Canadian culture, build lasting connections, and explore hidden gems.
• Advance Your Career: Gain more work experience, expand your professional network, and open doors to new opportunities.
• Continue Your Education: Enroll in additional courses, complete your degree, or pursue specialized certifications.
• Explore More: Canada’s vast landscapes and diverse cities are worth every extra day. Learn more about Canada.

How to Stay Longer in Canada

Extending your stay in Canada depends on your current visa or permit status. Here are some common options:

• Apply for a Visitor Record: If you’re in Canada as a visitor and want to stay longer, you can apply for a visitor record. This document allows you to extend your stay as a visitor, worker authorized to work without a work permit, or student authorized to study without a study permit. It includes a new expiry date, which is the date you must leave Canada by. Apply for a Visitor Record.
• Extend Your Visitor Visa: If you’re in Canada as a tourist, you can apply to extend your stay as a visitor. Ensure you apply before your current status expires. Extend Your Visitor Visa.
• Renew Your Study Permit: Students can extend their study permits to continue their education or pursue additional programs. Renew Your Study Permit.
• Extend Your Work Permit: If you’re working in Canada, you may be eligible to extend your work permit, especially if you have a job offer or are part of a specific program. Extend Your Work Permit.
• Apply for Permanent Residency: If you’ve fallen in love with Canada and want to make it your permanent home, explore pathways like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or family sponsorship.
• Change Your Status: Switching from a visitor visa to a study or work permit is possible if you meet the eligibility criteria. Change Your Status.

What is a Visitor Record?

A visitor record is a document that allows you to stay in Canada longer as:

• A visitor
• A worker authorized to work without a work permit in Canada
• A student authorized to study without a study permit in Canada

It includes a new expiry date, which is the date you must leave Canada by. Note that a visitor record is not a visa and does not guarantee re-entry into Canada. If you plan to leave and return, ensure you have a valid entry document, such as a visitor visa or an eTA. Learn more about Visitor Records.

Eligibility for a Visitor Record

To apply for a visitor record, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must be currently in Canada as a visitor, worker, or student.
• You must apply before your current status expires.
• You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your extended stay.
• You must not have violated any conditions of your current stay in Canada.
• You must provide a valid reason for extending your stay (e.g., tourism, family visit, or continued work/study). Check Eligibility.

Processing Times for a Visitor Record

Processing times for a visitor record vary depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your submission. On average, it takes:

• Online Applications: Approximately 30-60 days.
• Paper Applications: Approximately 60-90 days.

It’s recommended to apply at least 30 days before your current status expires to avoid any gaps in your legal status. Check Processing Times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I leave Canada while my visitor record application is being processed?

A: Yes, but if you leave Canada, your application may be considered abandoned. Ensure you have a valid entry document (e.g., visitor visa or eTA) to return. Learn More.

Q: Can I work or study with a visitor record?

A: A visitor record does not automatically allow you to work or study. You must meet specific criteria to be authorized to work or study without a permit. Work Permit Info | Study Permit Info.

Q: What happens if my visitor record application is denied?

A: If your application is denied, you must leave Canada by the expiry date of your current status. You may reapply if you can address the reasons for the refusal. Reapply Here.

Q: Can I apply for permanent residency while on a visitor record?

A: Yes, you can apply for permanent residency while on a visitor record, but you must maintain your legal status in Canada throughout the process. Explore PR Options.

Tips for a Successful Extension

• Plan Ahead: Start the extension process well before your current permit expires.
• Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all necessary paperwork, such as proof of funds, a valid passport, and supporting letters.
• Seek Professional Help: Immigration rules can be complex. Consulting an immigration expert can save you time and stress. Find a Regulated Consultant.
• Stay Compliant: Always adhere to the conditions of your current visa or permit to avoid complications.