can we extend tourist visa in canada

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How to extend your stay as a visitor in Canada

With border closures, travel bans, and restrictions still in place, if you are in Canada as a visitor, you may be looking to extend your stay.

In general, visitor visas allow foreigners to live legally in Canada for up to six months. At the end of this period, the visitor's legal status expires and they must leave Canada.

If this is the case for you, you may be considering extending your stay in Canada beyond the specified period.

To do so, you will need to submit an application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) while your visitor visa, also called a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is still valid. The TRV is an official document issued by a Canadian visa office and inserted in the foreign national's passport. This document certifies that you have met the conditions for entry to Canada as a temporary resident.

To extend your stay in Canada as a visitor, you must apply for a visitor record. This document will have an expiry date, upon which you must leave the country or apply for another extension to remain in Canada legally. It is important to note that a visitor record does not guarantee you will be able to re-enter Canada if you decide to leave the country.

If your current visitor visa expires while your application for an extension is being processed, you can stay in Canada until a decision is made. This is known as " maintained status ," which was previously known as "implied status."

During this period, the conditions of your visitor status are extended beyond the expiry date and you will simply be allowed to stay in Canada as a visitor.

If, however, your visitor status has already expired, you may be able to restore your status if you continue to meet initial requirements and conditions.

Get help with your visitor visa extension

How long can you stay in Canada?

Unless they are citizens of a visa-exempt country, individuals who wish to enter Canada for a temporary purpose, such as tourists, temporary foreign workers , and international students must apply for and be granted a TRV. Most visitors can stay in Canada for up to six months.

Those who receive a stamp in their passport when they enter Canada must leave the country by the date indicated on the stamp. Those issued a visitor record must leave Canada before the expiry date indicated on the visitor record.

In the event that the passport has not been stamped, foreign nationals can only remain in Canada for a period of six months from the date of their initial entry into the country or before the expiry of their passport, whichever happens first.

It is possible to apply for a visitor's visa despite existing travel restrictions, but only individuals exempt from these restrictions are allowed to enter Canada at this time.

A temporary policy allows visitors to apply for work permits

On August 24, 2020 , IRCC introduced a special measure allowing foreign nationals who are in Canada on visitor status with a  valid job offer to apply for an employer-specific work permit. Before, visitors would usually need to apply for their initial work permits  before coming to Canada. If they were already in the country on visitor status when they were approved for the work permit, they would need to leave Canada and return in order to activate it.

Applicant looking to benefit from this temporary measure must:

• have valid status in Canada as a visitor on the day they apply;
• have remained in Canada with valid status;
• have a valid job offer;
• submit an in-Canada application for an employer-specific work permit that is supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment, no later than August 31, 2021; and
• meet all other standard admissibility criteria, such as medical and criminal checks, among others .

The temporary policy was first introduced to allow visitors who arrived in Canada during the time when coronavirus-related travel restrictions were introduced and has since been extended until August 31, 2021.

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Extend Visitor Visa Stay After 6 Months: Here Is Full Guide

• 15 May 2023, 9:38 AM EDT 15 May 2023, 9:38 AM EDT
• Canada Immigration News , Visitors

Last Updated On 15 May 2023, 9:38 AM EDT (Toronto Time)

You must apply for a visitor record to extend your stay beyond 6 months after entering Canada on a visitor visa .

This allows you to continue your stay as a visitor for additional 6 months. 

It is important to apply for a visitor record before your current stay of 6 months ends.

While your application is under processing, you can stay legally in Canada on implied status until a decision is made by IRCC on your visitor record application.

So, if you are unsure about the process, don’t worry, we have got you covered.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about applying for a visitor record to extend your stay in Canada.

Learn about

Who can apply to extend a visitor visa .

You need to apply for a visitor record if you want to – 

• extend your stay in Canada as a visitor , or
• change your permit type from a study/work permit to a visitor record.

Please note that it doesn’t matter how you initially entered Canada, whether through a visitor visa, electronic travel authorization (eTA), or any other document.

A visitor record is mandatory for an extended stay. However, you cannot work or study with a visitor record.

TRV For International Students & Workers-Why & How To Apply!

When should you apply?

To continue staying in Canada as a visitor , or to change your status (from international student or worker to a visitor for example), you should submit your application at least 30 days prior to the expiration date of your current status. 

However, you can also submit an online application even 1 day prior to expiry of your 6-month stay, but it is not recommended.

You can find the expiry date for your status on – 

• The stamp in your passport. This should not be confused with the date printed on your visitor visa. In cases where there is no stamp present in your passport, your visitor status expires six months from the date you entered Canada.
• your study permit
• your work permit or
• your visitor record (if you’ve already extended your stay)

How to apply for a visitor record?

In most cases, you must apply online to get a visitor record. Using the online application platform can have several advantages – 

Firstly, it enables IRCC to receive your application immediately, avoiding any courier fees or waiting time for mail delivery.

This may lead to faster processing times for your application. 

Additionally, submitting your application online allows you to ensure that all necessary information is included before submitting.

If required, additional documents can be quickly submitted online as well.

Finally, updates on the status of your application are provided directly through your online account.

If you have already submitted a paper application, there is no need to resubmit the same application online.

To apply for a visitor record, you need to follow the steps mentioned below- 

Step 1: Have the following forms ready

The first thing you need to do is refer to the IRCC instruction guide .

This will help you with case-specific documents and instructions. Once you have done that, you need to fill out the following forms: 

• Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor or Temporary Resident Permit Holder – Form IMM 5708
• Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union, if applicable – Form IMM 636.51
• Use of Representative (if applicable) – Form IMM 5476

You will not be able to open these forms by directly clicking on it. Download the forms and then open to fill them out using a PDF editor.

Step 2: Have your answers for the online tool ready

You need to answer a few questions before uploading your forms. This will help you get get a personalized document checklist.

The answers you need to provide when applying for a visitor record are – 

• For the first question “What would you like to do in Canada?”, you need to select “Visit.”
• In the next question, “What is your current country/territory of residence?”, you have to select “Canada.”

Implied Status Meaning For Visitors, Students Or Workers-All You Need To Know

Step 3: Sign in or create your account.

The next thing you need to do is create your GCKey account . If you have already created one, you can sign in and –

• Pay your application fees. 
• Submit your application. 
• Check your application status. 

The application processing fee for a visitor record is $100 . You need to have a debit or credit card to pay the fees.

If you can’t apply online, a paper application can be submitted instead. This is applicable in certain circumstances like –

• you can’t apply online because of a disability
• there’s a problem with the online application

What To Expect After you apply

Once you have applied you should book your biometrics collection appointment as soon as you can. This will avoid any processing delays.

You can contact IRCC using the Web form in case your processing time has passed. 

The processing time for a visitor record for online applications is currently 151 days for online and 106 days for paper-based applications, as per latest IRCC official update.

Lastly, remember that your visitor record is not a visa. The date indicated on your visitor record is the date by which you are required to leave Canada.

What documents do I need to present when entering Canada as a visitor?

You need to present one of the following documents: a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) along with a valid passport or travel document.

Can I work or study with a visitor record?

No, you cannot work or study with a visitor record. If you want to work or study in Canada, you need to apply for a work permit or study permit separately.

When should I submit application for a visitor record?

You should submit your application at least 30 days prior to the expiration date of your current status.

Can I leave Canada and come back with just a visitor record?

No, a visitor record does not serve as a valid entry document to re-enter Canada. You need to have a valid entry document such as a visitor visa or eTA to come back to Canada after leaving.

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How to Extend Your Visitor Visa Stay in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Extend Your Visitor Visa Stay in Canada

Are you planning to extend your stay in Canada as a visitor? Whether you’re exploring the breathtaking landscapes, visiting family and friends, or simply enjoying the Canadian experience, it’s essential to know how to extend your visitor visa stay. 

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In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step.

While your application is under processing, you can stay legally in Canada on implied status until IRCC reaches a decision on your visitor record application.

Who Can Apply to Extend a Visitor Visa?

Let’s start by understanding who is eligible to apply for an extension of their visitor visa stay:

• Extending Your Stay: If you’re in Canada on a visitor visa and want to stay longer, you can apply for an extension.
• Changing Your Permit Type: If you originally entered Canada with a study or work permit and now wish to switch to being a visitor, you can also apply for a visitor record.

It’s crucial to note that no matter how you initially entered Canada, whether it was with a visitor visa, an electronic travel authorization (eTA), or any other document, a visitor record is required for an extended stay. 

However, it’s important to understand that a visitor record doesn’t allow you to work or study in Canada.

When Should You Apply?

Timing is key when it comes to extending your visitor visa stay in Canada . Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Submit Your Application Early: To ensure a smooth transition and avoid any disruptions, it’s recommended to submit your application at least 30 days before your current status expires.
• Last-Minute Applications: While you can technically submit an online application even just one day before your 6-month stay expires, this isn’t advisable. Last-minute submissions may not leave enough time for processing.

Finding Your Expiry Date

To apply for an extension, you need to know when your current status expires. Here’s how to find this information:

• Stamp in Your Passport: Check the stamp in your passport; this date indicates when your visitor status expires. Be sure not to confuse it with the date printed on your visitor visa. If there’s no stamp in your passport, your visitor status typically expires six months from the date you entered Canada.
• Permit Documents: Look at your study permit , work permit, or visitor record if you’ve previously extended your stay. These documents also indicate your status expiry date.

How to Apply for a Visitor Record

Now, let’s dive into the process of applying for a visitor record. We’ll break it down into simple steps.

Step 1: Gather the Required Forms

The first thing you need to do is refer to the IRCC instruction guide . To begin, you’ll need specific forms. Here’s what you need:

• Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay, or Remain in Canada as a Visitor or Temporary Resident Permit Holder ━ ( Form IMM 5708 )
• Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union ━ ( Form IMM 636.51 ): If applicable, you’ll need this form to declare a common-law union.
• Use of Representative ━ ( Form IMM 5476 ): If you’re using a representative to help with your application, include this form.

Remember, you can’t simply click on these forms; you’ll need to download them and use a PDF editor to fill them out.

Step 2: Prepare Your Answers for the Online Tool

Before you submit your application, you’ll need to answer a few questions online. These answers will help create a personalized document checklist for you:

• Select “Visit” for the question, “What would you like to do in Canada ?”
• Choose “ Canada ” for your current country/territory of residence.

Step 3: Create Your Account

Now, it’s time to create your account on the GCKey platform. If you already have an account, you can simply sign in to:

• Pay Your Application Fees: The application fee for a visitor record is $100 , and you’ll need a debit or credit card to make this payment.
• Submit Your Application: Once your forms are ready, submit your application online through your GCKey account.
• Check Your Application Status: You can also use your account to keep track of your application’s progress.

In cases where applying online isn’t feasible, such as due to a disability or technical issues, a paper application can be submitted instead.

How to Apply for a Canada Visitor Visa: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

What to expect after applying.

After you’ve submitted your application, there are a few important steps to follow:

• Book Your Biometrics Collection Appointment: It’s essential to schedule this appointment as soon as possible to prevent processing delays.
• Contact IRCC If Processing Takes Longer: If your application’s processing time exceeds expectations, you can get in touch with IRCC using the Web form.

As of the latest information from IRCC , the processing time for a visitor record is currently 151 days for online applications and 106 days for paper-based applications. Keep these timelines in mind when planning your stay.

Read More: How to Get Canadian Permanent Residence After Your Studies

Important Reminders

Before we conclude, here are a couple of critical reminders:

• Your Visitor Record Is Not a Visa: It’s essential to understand that the date indicated on your visitor record is the date by which you are required to leave Canada . It does not serve as a visa.
• Re-Entry to Canada: If you plan to leave Canada and return, you’ll need a valid entry document, such as a visitor visa or eTA, along with your valid passport or travel document.

In conclusion, extending your visitor visa stay in Canada is a straightforward process when you follow these steps.

Timely action and attention to detail are key to ensuring a smooth extension of your stay, allowing you to continue enjoying all that Canada has to offer.

Safe travels, and enjoy your extended stay in this beautiful country!

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Can I extend my Canadian visitor visa while in Canada?

• October 18, 2023
• CanadianVisa Admin

Yes, it is possible to extend your Canadian Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV) while you are in Canada under certain circumstances. If you want to extend your stay in Canada as a visitor, you must apply for an extension before your current status expires. Here’s what you need to know about extending your visitor visa:

Eligibility for Visitor Visa Extension: To be eligible for a visitor visa extension in Canada, you must meet the following criteria:

• Valid Status : You must currently hold a valid visitor visa or temporary resident visa.
• Apply Before Expiry : You should apply for an extension before your current visa expires. It’s crucial to apply well in advance to avoid any gaps in your status.
• Compliance : You must have complied with the conditions of your initial visa, which include not working or studying without the necessary authorization.
• Intent to Leave : You must demonstrate that you have a genuine intent to leave Canada at the end of your extended stay.

Application Process for Visitor Visa Extension: To extend your visitor visa, follow these steps:

• Determine Eligibility : Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria mentioned above.
• Apply Online or on Paper : You can apply for an extension either online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or by submitting a paper application to the appropriate Visa Application Center (VAC) or Canadian consulate/embassy in Canada. The online option is generally faster and more convenient.
• Complete Application Forms : Fill out the appropriate application form, which is typically the Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor (IMM 5708). Be sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.
• Pay Application Fee : Pay the required processing fee for the extension application. You can pay online when applying electronically or include a payment receipt with your paper application.
• Include Supporting Documents : Submit all necessary supporting documents, such as a photocopy of your current visa, a valid passport, proof of financial support, and a detailed letter explaining why you want to extend your stay in Canada.
• Biometrics : Depending on your nationality and the specific circumstances of your extension, you may be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and a photograph). If applicable, you will receive instructions on how and where to provide biometrics.
• Medical Examination (if required) : In some cases, IRCC may request a medical examination as part of the extension application. If required, follow the instructions provided.
• Wait for a Decision : After submitting your extension application, you will need to wait for a decision from IRCC. Processing times can vary, but you should receive an acknowledgment of receipt shortly after submitting your application.
• Decision : If your extension application is approved, you will receive a new visitor record that outlines the new date until which you are allowed to stay in Canada. This record should be kept with your passport and presented to Canadian authorities, if necessary.
• Prepare for Departure : It’s essential to prepare for your departure from Canada and ensure that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your extended stay.

If your visitor visa extension is denied, you will be required to leave Canada before your current status expires to avoid being considered “out of status.” If you wish to return to Canada as a visitor in the future, you may need to apply for a new visitor visa from your home country.

Remember that visitor visa extensions are typically granted for short-term stays, and you should not plan to use this process as a means to stay in Canada indefinitely. If you have more long-term plans, you may want to explore other Canadian immigration programs, such as study permits, work permits, or permanent residency options, that better align with your goals.

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How To Extend Visitor Visa In Canada: A Full Guide

How to extend a visitor visa in Canada is a common question, especially among those visiting Canada for the first time or those who came to Canada on a TRV – Temporary Resident Visa. In reality, this may seem a bit difficult, but there are legal ways to do so, and to enjoy all the benefits that the country has to offer. After all, two coasts, mountain ranges, ski centers, and untouched wilderness are something that we universally enjoy, so why not stay longer?

If you came to Canada as a temporary visitor, you either came with an eTA (if the country you’re coming from needs one – the US is a notable exception here) or with a TRV. In both cases, you will be able to stay in Canada for up to six months. If you would like to stay longer, you need to apply for a visitor record – which is not a visa, but it gives you legal status in Canada and allows you to extend your stay. 

How To Extend Your Visit in Canada as a Visitor

In fact, a visitor record also has an expiry date. This is the date by which you will have to apply for a new visitor record or leave the country. When it comes to extending your eTA or TRV or even an existing visitor record, you will have to do that before your old document expires. This will mean that you need to gather additional documents and make your application before the deadline stated on the document you’re currently using to stay in Canada. 

To be able to extend your stay, you need to have a legal status in the first place. If this is the case, you will need to gather and submit all the documents before the deadline for your existing documents. You will also need to keep being admissible to Canada and follow all the limitations that come with your current TRV or eTA (no working unless you have a work permit and no studying unless you have a study permit). You will also need to stay in the legal waters and avoid offending Canadian law in any way. 

When Do I Have To Submit My Application?

As you enter Canada, you may already know that you will need to stay longer than the maximum of 6 months your eTA or TRV allows you to. If this is the case, you can apply for the visitor record or the extension immediately, and at the port of entry. However, if you realize that you will need to stay over your existing travel document, the best application time is slightly different. 

In this case, you will need to be able to apply at least a month before. The processing times for a visitor record differ, depending on how many requests there are, but you will need to apply AT LEAST 30 days before your current document. You will also need to be able to apply even earlier, and the best practice says that you should apply as soon as you know that you will need to overstay your current document. 

How to Apply for a Visitor Visa?

Of course, sometimes it may be necessary to stay for even longer times. In this case, if you are looking for a visitor visa for parents , you will need to apply for a super visa and you will need to do that from your current country of residence or country of citizenship. You will be granted a visitor status for up to 5 years at a time, and for up to 10 years with a single, multiple-entry document. However, for any other reasons, you will need a TRV or an eTA. 

If you already have one of these and you would like to extend your stay in Canada, there are two basic ways to do that. You can submit a paper application or an online application. Beware that if you are a permanent resident , and have finished with your immigration to Canada, expanding your PR status will be a different process. The visitor record is only possible for those on TRV or eTA. 

When applying, you will need to understand that your application will have to be separate for each of the family members who would like to extend their stay. You will need to provide your personal information and even some documents. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of what needs to be done to apply for a visitor record: 

• gather all the documents 
• pay the processing fee 
• fill in the forms as soon as possible, and keep a copy for yourself 
• submit your application, fees, and all other documents online or on paper

When speaking of the documents that you need for this kind of application, they are as follows (and you can find them all on the IMM 5558 E form ): 

• IMM 5708 – Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor or Temporary Resident Permit Holder 
• IMM 5476 – Use of a Representative – only if applicable
• IMM 5475 – Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated individual- only if applicable
• Proof of payment of the processing fees
• Photocopies of all passport pages, including your passport number, the dates of issue and expiry, your name, your date of birth, all marked pages, and the page containing the stamp that you received on your last entry (current entry) into Canada
• Photocopy of your travel and identity documents if you did not use a passport to enter Canada – if yes, this is not necessary, but you may still be based to provide them
• Photocopy of your current immigration document, if you have it
• Photocopy of your Marriage license or certificate – if you came in to visit a spouse, partner, etc., and only if applicable 
• Proof of means of support – for the duration of the extended stay in Canada
• Besides this, you will also need a credit or a debit card for online payment of the fees, if applying online 

In most cases, it is advisable to make your application online, as you are sure that you’ve sent all your documents. You will also be sure that you do not have to pay post fees and have a longer processing time because it will take more time to receive the application. With online applications, all your documents are received instantly and as long as you have your passport valid and have applied to the right immigration category in the first place, your application will proceed smoothly. 

If all goes well, you will receive a new document outlining the new conditions of the stay – the visitor record. If you do not receive it, you can apply for a new one (apply for restoration) within 90 days of the refusal date. During this time, you cannot work or study in Canada. Once you have received your visitor record, you can proceed with your activities as you normally would. 

Why Do You Require a Temporary Resident Visa or Visitor Visa?

Nationals of some countries can enter Canada with their passport and an eTA only. Nationals of some other require a TRV – Temporary Resident Visa, even for a short, tourist visit. If you would like to visit Canada for tourist purposes, to visit friends and family for a short time, or to do business (all for a period shorter than six months), you will need a TRV.

TRVs are generally issued by immigration officers or a Canadian visa office for periods of up to six months, and you will need to apply for an extension if you would like to stay longer. If you are travelling with a child, you will also need an authorization letter, if you are a sole parent travelling with the child. The Canadian immigration policy does not state that this document is necessary, but it will help you cross the border and expedite the (temporary) immigration process. 

When To Renew a Temporary Resident Visa?

A new application for a visitor visa can only be made from outside of Canada. You can do that by visiting your consular visa services or by making an application online. If you want a temporary status for study, you will need a letter of Acceptance, and if you would like to visit family, a letter of invitation may be necessary. 

However, if you are already in Canada and you have a legal status (an eTA or a TRV), you will need to apply for an extension of the document you used to enter Canada or you will need to apply for a visitor record. To do that, you will need to apply on paper or online (we recommend online – the processing times are faster, and there is no shipping time for your documents). The online application form also allows you to see whether you have uploaded all your documents. 

Check Out How to Extend a Visitor Visa After 6 Months in Canada?

Where Do I Submit My Application for TRV Renewal?

When applying for an extension of your stay in Canada, you can make a paper application or an online application. The latter is our recommendation, and whichever option you may choose, you can only extend your stay as a visitor, as a worker who can work without a work permit, or as a student who can study without a study permit. With this in mind, you can apply through your secure IRCC (Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada) secure portal. 

Temporary Resident Visa: What Is It and How Does It Work?

A Temporary Resident Visa is an official document issued by the Canadian government that allows you to temporarily visit and stay in Canada. You can do that as a visitor (tourist), a student, or a worker. This document does not allow you to stay in Canada indefinitely and it does not allow you to work or study unless otherwise specified. 

When applying for a TRV, you will need to do that OUTSIDE of Canada. You will also need to make sure that your documents are valid (especially the validity of your passport) and that your other documents are truthful. When applying, you will need to submit your application with all the required documents, including your biometrics (you will need to schedule a term with the nearest collection centre), and you will need to be admitted to Canada. Here are some documents required for a TRV (found in the IMM 5484 form): 

• IMM 5257 – Application for Temporary Resident Visa 
• IMM 5707 – Family Information 
• IMM 5409 – Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union – if applicable
• IMM 5476 – Use of a Representative – if applicable 
• IMM 5475 – Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual – if applicable 
• Fee Payment Proof 
• Photocopy of your passport with your passport number, issue date and expiry date, 
• your date and place of birth 
• Two passport-style photo 
• Proof of financial support 
• Photocopy of your marriage license or certificate – if applicable 
• Purpose of Travel
• Photocopy of your current immigration stats if you have one 
• For minors only, you need also custody documents and a letter of travel authorization 

How Much Time Will It Take?

Every visa application, including Canadian work visa and study visa, has its own processing times. When applying for a visitor record to extend your TRV, you will need to apply as soon as possible. Currently, the visitor record processing time is around 50 days for online applications and 84 days for paper applications. When it comes to the application itself, please apply as soon as possible. 

The latest that you can apply is 30 days before your current document expires, but considering the processing time of 50 days, you can easily be left for 20 days, waiting for the extension, without the possibility to work or study. For this reason, apply as soon as you know that there are reasons to stay longer than the aforementioned six months. 

Can I Find a Job in Canada on a Tourist Visa?

Yes, you can, but you have to pay attention that foreign nationals on a tourist visa cannot work in Canada. If you do find a job, there will be several steps to undertake to change your tourist or temporary visitor visa to a work permit. You will have to apply for a work permit (which can be done online), and your potential employer will have to apply for the LMIA assessment (Labour Market Impact Assessment). If the LMIA status is positive, you can continue with your work permit application. 

How Much Does It Cost to Extend a Tourist Visa?

If you have already applied and gotten your tourist visa, you may want to extend it. The process is simple, and it costs CAD100 to extend it. Bear in mind that this is an application for an extension and that you are in no way guaranteed the extension. However, if you did not break any laws during your primary stay in Canada, you may be considered eligible for an extension. 

How Much Is the Medical Fee for a Canada Visa?

The medical fee or the medical examination is not paid to Canada. They are paid to the local doctor or the clinic that is on the list of the approved medical centres where you can take the medical examination to apply for a Canadian visa or residence status. The prices depend on the country and the clinic but in general, cost upwards of CAD200. 

How Many Times Can I Visit Canada in One Year?

Single-entry visas allow you to visit Canada a single time in a year. Even if you go from Canada to the US on a short visit, you will not be able to come back to Canada. However, having multiple-entry Canadian visitor visas will allow you to enter the country multiple times in a year. 

Final Thoughts

When applying for an extension of your TV, or to get a visitor record, please beware of the processing times and that only complete applications get processed in this time. As incomplete documents are one of the main reasons visitor record applications get prolonged or rejected, it is also useful to prepare all the documents beforehand and to ensure that you submit them as soon as possible. This will allow you enough time to keep working or studying (even without permits) or to simply enjoy the beautiful scenery – one of Cnada’s most notable landmarks. 

Updated on 11-15-23

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Extending visas and permits

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• How can I extend my stay as a visitor?
• How can I extend my stay as a student?

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• Extend Your Stay as a Visitor in Canada

If you have entered Canada as a visitor, no matter how long you were originally given to stay by CBSA upon entry, you can apply to extend your stay without leaving Canada.

As long as you submit an application to extend your visitor status BEFORE you are supposed to leave Canada, you will continue to have what is called implied status . This is continued legal status that allows you to remain in Canada under the same conditions that you originally entered under. Find out more information about implied status here .

If you are a visitor, this means that you are not allowed to work, and not allowed to study longer than 6 months in most cases.

If your visitor status expired within 90 days*, you may also apply to restore your legal status as a visitor without leaving Canada.

Keep in mind that status is a visitor is how long CBSA told you that you can stay in Canada when you arrived – not how long your visitor visa in your passport is valid for. Even if your visitor visa expired months ago, you could still have valid visitor status in Canada if you are already here.

If you are not eligible to extend or restore your status as a student, you may change to visitor status.

If your visitor status expired more than 90 days ago, then you may apply for a temporary resident permit. *Due to covid-19, IRCC is currently allowing people who had valid status in Canada as of January 30, 2020 to restore their status even if more than 90 days have passed since their status in Canada expired.

Fees to extend or restore status as a visitor or change conditions to visitor status usually range from $350 – $500 + $100 government application fee. For restorations, the government charges an extra $100.

**Rather than traveling during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, you are allowed to apply to extend or restore your status as a temporary resident, or apply for a TRP if your status has already expired.

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Where To Go From Here

Extend your temporary status in Canada if it has not yet expired, or apply to stay in Canada even if your status has already expired.

Starting immediately, any visitor, student and worker who lost their status ON or AFTER January 30, 2020 and subsequently did not apply to restore the status 90 days, is now eligible to restore their status regardless of the fact that the 90 day period has passed.

Workers, students, and visitors continue to be exempt from the requirement to restore their status within 90 days of their expiry, and will be allowed to restore their status if they have already expired until August 21, 2021.

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How to Extend a Tourist Visa in Canada?

October 25, 2020 BY Faisal Mustafa

A tourist visa is allowed for a limited period for leisure travel, with no business activities permitted. Usually, Canada allows a tourist to stay in for 6 months. However, if the immigration permit is less than that, it will be mentioned in the visitor’s Passport. After that specified period, the tourist must leave Canada.

What if the tourist wants to stay more? The simplest answer is s/he must apply for an extension at least 30 days before the expired date of his/her visa. Otherwise, the Canadian authority will have full power to take action against you.

Moreover, there are some steps and procedures to follow to apply and get an extension in Canada’s tourist visa. In the following part of the article, we will briefly focus on how to extend a tourist visa in Canada. Keep reading.

It is essential to extend a tourist visa, and for that, there are some steps and procedures. So, one can prolong a tourist visa in Canada by following the below-stated guidelines:

Who can apply for the Extension of a Tourist Visa?

The actual tourist can only apply for the Extension of a Tourist Visa. Only Certified Migration Counselors can complete this process on your behalf.

Required Documents:

You must submit the following documents along with the forms to request a tourist visa extension:

• You must submit a letter that must indicate why you want to extend your visit to the country.
• You must submit a photocopy of your Passport.  It must contain the page with your information and the time of entrance into Canada.
• You also have to submit evidence of your legal entry paper record in Canada.
• You must submit a photocopy of the marriage document if it is valid.
• You must submit the essential evidence to prove that you have an economical source to back up your visit. Because, with a tourist visa, one is not allowed to work.

How to apply for a tourist visa extension:

In most cases, you must apply online to extend your stay as a tourist.  The procedure to apply online is listed below:

When you apply online, the authority gets your application immediately, which helps them process your application faster. If you have already applied on paper, you don’t have to resubmit your application online.

How Online Application Benefits You:

• Immediate result as there are no courier fees and mail delivery delay
• Less process time of application
• You can check whether your application is completed or not before the submission
• Quick submission of additional documents if they ask or required
• You can check your application status through your online profile

Know Also: Reasons to Extend Visitor Visa in Canada

Online Application Process:

There are four steps for applying online for extending the tourist visa in Canada. They are:

Step 1: Gather Your Papers Needed

To apply online, at first, you will need:

• An scanned copy of all official papers (ex. Passport)
• A valid credit or debit card

Step 2: Read the instruction guide properly

Before applying online, you have to read all the instructions given in the form. After reading, you will know how to complete the online form and which fields are required to fill-up.

Step 3: Be prepared to answer the questions asked online

You have to answer some questions before uploading your forms. These answers are to create a personalized document checklist for you. You have to answer in the following areas:

• First Question: What would you like to do in Canada?”

Answer: Select: “Visit”

• Second Question : What is your current country/territory of residence?”

Answer : Select “Canada”

Step 4: Sign in or Create Your Online Profile

For applying online, you have to sign up for an account. So, if you don’t have an account online, you have to create one and if you have, then sign in. Your online account allows you to do the following things:

• Pay all the required fees
• Submit your application
• Check your application status

Cost of a Visa Extension:

The cost of a visa extension is 100 Canadian dollars. Payments made online accepted only on the migration page.

What if one does not get a response after sending the request, but his/her visa period ends?

Entry principles have a law passed to this kind of condition. Stating, the people who sent their extension appeals but didn’t get an answer will continue to live as a temporary resident until receiving a reply.

Temporary resident:

A temporary resident needs to apply to lengthen their period of approved stay. They can continue to live as temporary residents by law until a judgment is passed. For the time being, they get the implied status as a temporary resident.

They could not do anything in Canada until their renewal application is a grant. They have to prove that they have enough money to support themselves. They also need to present documented proof of their request at the POE(Port of Entry) to lengthen their permit.

Extensions:

After applying for an extension, any of the following things may occur:

• If permitted, the date of the matter on the paper will denote the date the verdict is passed.
• If denied, the candidate remains as a temporary resident until a verdict is passed.
• If rejected (unfinished), the candidate remains a temporary resident until the paper terminates.

Processes of Extension:

The following process occurs in the subsequent phases:

• The Case Processing Centre in Edmonton (CPC-E) gets the submission and confirms it.
• All Canada visitor proceedings need to be given by e-mail, apart from some exceptions.

At the CPC-E, a representative assesses the submission to decide whether the candidate is eligible for renewal or not.

• If accepted, then a paper containing the exactness of the extension situations is e-mailed to the candidate.
• If candidate status is terminated, they violate the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). In that case, eligibility for renewal is evaluated. If the candidate is not appropriate for renewal, then the Minister’s agent decides on the issue.
• If the candidate needs a health checkup, then the form, doctor board list, and guidelines are sent to the candidate through e-mail.
• Suppose a meeting is needed because of any above-stated causes. In that case, the submission is given to the local Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) agency near the candidate’s house.

A local representative analyses the case and plans for an interview with the candidate. Moreover, he accepts or rejects the submission.

• If accepted, then a paper containing the exactness of the situations is agreed upon and given to the candidate.
• If declined, the candidate is given the result and is directed to leave Canada.

If CPC-E has enough reasons to decline a submission, it is sent to the candidate through e-mail. By informing them of the denial and its causes. The candidate is also informed of the following sequence of the act. Such as whether they are eligible for applying again or not.

The agent’s verdict is recognized in the Field Operations Support System (FOSS) or the Global Case Management System (GCMS).

Therefore, these are the extensions and procedures undertaken for the implied status as a temporary resident in Canada.

Can You Extend an Existing Extension?

If you already have an extension, that means you have been at least one year. That is 6 months of your original entry plus 6 months of the extension. The extension process doesn’t have a limit on how many times you can apply for an extension.

However, you will need to prove that you have the funds (without working) and that you still have plans to return to your country. That is, you must have sufficient money to stay in Canada to support yourself. Depending on where and for how long you will remain in Canada. It is one of the main factors. If one doesn’t have adequate money or other sources, this can be problematic for him. It is the agent’s verdict.

Still, there is an opportunity to take in confirmation from an acquaintance, a stable inhabitant, or a naturalized citizen. That person will guarantee the Canadian authority to take care of your expenditures until you live here. He also must give a document of occupation and a photocopy of the latest Bill of Taxation. It is to confirm they have all the required earnings for an extra payment.

The purpose of these discussions is to give an overview of extending a tourist visa in Canada. Tourists are restricted in length of stay(usually six months) and are subject to various conditions.

Tourist visa needs extension if one needs to stay longer. For that, they need to follow some steps and procedures for applying and getting an extension; otherwise, the law can take action against them.

Overall, these are the following steps to follow for extending a tourist visa in Canada. I hope this article helped you to know how to extend a tourist visa in Canada.

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Frequently Asked Question

1. how to get citizenship.

To get permanent residency, you have to live for at least three years in Canada. You also need some other documents to apply for Citizenship.

2. How long it take to get Citizenship?

In generally takes six months to get the citizenship after taking the Citizenship Test and Interview.

3. Who needs to take the Citizenship Test and Interview?

People aged between 18 to 54 have to take the citizenship test and Interview.

4. How long it take the Oath Taking Ceremony?

Oath taking ceremony generally takes 45 to 60 mins to complete. However, the time may vary upon the number of applicants and citizens.

5. Can I renounce my Citizenship?

Yes, any Citizen who is a Canadain Citizen can renounce his citizenship status if he wants. He may apply for renouncing the citizenship under certain conditions.

6. Can I resume my Citizenship after renouncing the status?

The answer is yes. You can again apply to resume your Citizenship status though you have renounced it once.

7. What are the fees to apply for Canadian Citizenship?

The total fees for applying for Citizenship in Canada is CAN $ 630. Among the prices, $530 is for processing fee, and $100 is for the right of  Citizenship fee. But for minors aged under 18, the processing fee is $100.

Are you planning to go to Canada to study, job, or other purposes, but do not know how to apply or process your application? Read all the information about how to immigrate or migrate to Canada and how you need to do it.

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Extend Visitor Visa from outside Canada

• Thread starter munta_131
• Start date Oct 28, 2017

Full Member

Dear Members, My parents have a multiple Canadian visitor visa which is valid until December. My parents are intending to visit Canada in early January so I wanted to know if they can reapply for an extension/new visa before their current visa expires from outside Canada? Or do they have to wait till the current visa expires before they apply again? Any expert suggestions will be great!  

They won’t extend the current visa past the expiry date. They should apply for a new visa now. It’s close enough to the expiry date it shouldn’t cause a problem. If it expires in December, they won’t be able to use it in January.  

Buletruck said: They won’t extend the current visa past the expiry date. They should apply for a new visa now. It’s close enough to the expiry date it shouldn’t cause a problem. If it expires in December, they won’t be able to use it in January. Click to expand...

canuck_in_uk

munta_131 said: They got a new passport and it is valid for close to 5 years. Only their current visitor visa will expire on December which was issued before. So is it okay if they apply for a new one now? Will the current visa be cancelled and a new one with a longer validity be issued? Click to expand...

canuck_in_uk said: Assuming they are approved, yes, a new TRV will be issued. Click to expand...

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Changes to the Start-up Visa and Self-Employed Persons programs to help reduce backlogs and improve processing times

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

News release

Immigration is critical to the growth of our economy and our communities. Improving processing times is key to providing an immigration system that works better for newcomers and Canadians alike, which is why we are taking action to reduce wait times and modernize our programs and services.

April 29, 2024—Ottawa— Immigration is critical to the growth of our economy and our communities. Improving processing times is key to providing an immigration system that works better for newcomers and Canadians alike, which is why we are taking action to reduce wait times and modernize our programs and services.

Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced several changes to Canada’s federal business programs to help reduce processing times and the application backlog. These changes take effect on April 30, 2024.

To improve the Start-up Visa Program, we will encourage designated venture capital firms, angel investor groups and business incubators to focus on the most promising proposals by

• capping the number of permanent residence applications we will accept for processing each year to those associated with no more than 10 start-ups per designated organization
• providing priority processing for entrepreneurs whose start-up is supported by Canadian capital or by a business incubator that is a member of Canada’s Tech Network , including applications in the inventory and new applications as they are submitted

In addition, Minister Miller announced a full pause on application intake for the Self­-Employed Persons Program to focus on processing applications from the inventory, starting April 30, 2024. The Self-Employed Persons Program provides a pathway to permanent residence for people with notable experience in art, culture, recreation or sports and who will contribute to Canada’s cultural vitality. Due to the high number of applications submitted for this program, processing times have increased to beyond four years. While the pause is in place, IRCC will continue finalizing applications from the backlog while assessing options for reforming the program and ensuring its integrity.

By restricting application intake through the end of 2026, and through planned increases in admissions for the federal business category as tabled in the 2024–2026 multi-year levels plan , IRCC will be able to reduce the backlog and bring down wait times while continuing to welcome the talented, innovative and entrepreneurial newcomers we need to continue to grow Canada’s economy. 

“Fast processing is critical to the success of entrepreneurs who come to Canada through our federal business programs. These necessary changes will set the Start­up Visa Program and Self-Employed Persons Program on the path to faster processing times while we look ahead to further reforms to make these programs more sustainable and effective over the long term.” – The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Quick facts

Immigrants account for about one third of business owners with paid staff in Canada. 

Canada ranked number one as the most attractive destination for start-up founders in a  2023 report by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (PDF 2.18 MB) . The rankings were based on a wide variety of factors, including access to capital, corporate tax rates, skills of the workforce, strength of its universities and quality of life, as well as immigration policies for entrepreneurs and their families.

To qualify to apply for the Start-up Visa Program, a foreign entrepreneur must have the committed support of a designated venture capital fund (investment of $200,000), angel investor group (investment of $75,000) or business incubator (acceptance into their incubation program).

Since the program began in 2013, about 900 entrepreneurs have become permanent residents through this category, representing the launch of more than 300 start-ups.

All applications in the venture capital and angel investor streams will get priority processing, as will any business incubator–supported applications that report an investment of at least $75,000.

Related products

• News release: Stabilizing Canada’s immigration targets to support sustainable growth
• News release: Minister Fraser announces Canada’s first Tech Talent Strategy at Collision 2023

Associated links

• Start-up Visa Program
• Self-Employed Persons Program

Bahoz Dara Aziz   Press Secretary Minister’s Office Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada [email protected]

Media Relations Communications Sector Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada 613-952-1650 [email protected]

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