Visa Extension – Sapra Immigration

Extending Your Stay as a Visitor in Canada

If you’re in Canada as a visitor and wish to extend your stay beyond the authorized period, you must apply for a Visitor Record. This document is not a visa but allows you to remain in Canada longer under specific conditions.

Understanding the Visitor Record

A Visitor Record is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that:

● Extends your stay in Canada as:

○ A visitor

○ A worker authorized to work without a work permit

○ A student authorized to study without a study permit

● Includes a new expiry date by which you must leave Canada

It’s important to note that a Visitor Record:

● Is not a visa and does not guarantee re-entry into Canada if you leave

● Is issued either at a port of entry or after approval of an extension application within Canada

Eligibility for a Visitor Record

You can apply for a Visitor Record if you are:

● A visitor wishing to extend your stay in Canada

● A worker authorized to work without a work permit

● A student authorized to study without a study permit

● Looking to change your status from a study or work permit holder to a visitor

It doesn’t matter how you initially entered Canada—whether with a visitor visa, electronic travel authorization (eTA), or another document—you can apply for a Visitor Record if you meet the above criteria.

Timing Your Application

You should apply for a Visitor Record at least 30 days before your current status expires. The expiry date can be found on:

● The stamp in your passport (not the date on your visa)

● Your study or work permit

● Your current Visitor Record, if you’ve previously extended your stay

If you don’t have a stamp in your passport, you’re generally allowed to stay in Canada for 6 months from the day you entered.

Application Process

To apply for a Visitor Record, you must submit your application online through the IRCC portal. The steps include:

1. Prepare Your Documents:

○ Scan or photograph your documents to create electronic copies

○ Ensure you have a valid credit or debit card for payment

2. Read the Instruction Guide:

○ Even when applying online, it’s recommended to read the instruction guide to ensure all fields are completed correctly

3. Complete the Online Application:

○ Answer the eligibility questions to receive a personalized document checklist

○ Upload the required documents

○ Pay the applicable fees

4. Submit Your Application:

○ After submission, you’ll receive updates through your online account Applying online is faster and allows you to track your application’s status.

Maintaining Your Status

If you apply to extend your stay before your current status expires, you can legally remain in Canada under maintained status (formerly known as implied status) until a decision is made on your application.

During this period, you must continue to meet the conditions of your original status. For example, if you were a visitor, you cannot work or study while under maintained status.

Re-entry Considerations

A Visitor Record allows you to stay in Canada longer but does not guarantee re-entry if you leave.

● Visa-Required Travelers: Need a valid visitor visa to re-enter Canada, unless returning directly from the United States or Saint-Pierre and Miquelon.

● Visa-Exempt Travelers: Must have a valid eTA if arriving by air.

● U.S. Citizens: Typically require a valid passport or travel document. NEXUS and FAST members may use their membership cards for specific travel modes.

Ensure you have the appropriate documents before leaving Canada if you plan to return.