Visitor Visa Extension for Canada

A Visitor Visa Extension allows individuals in Canada to extend their stay beyond the original period authorized by their visitor visa. If you are in Canada as a visitor and want to stay longer, you may need to apply for an extension before your current visitor visa expires. It is important to apply for the extension before your visa expires to maintain your legal status in Canada.

What is a Visitor Visa Extension?

A visitor visa extension is a process that allows individuals who are currently in Canada on a visitor visa to extend their stay for a longer period. This extension is granted if you still meet the requirements for a visitor visa and if your reasons for staying longer are valid.

The extension application is processed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). While your extension application is being processed, you are allowed to stay in Canada under the same conditions of your original visitor visa, as long as you apply before your current status expires.

Eligibility for Visitor Visa Extension

To be eligible for a visitor visa extension, you must meet the following criteria:

• Legal Status in Canada: You must be in Canada legally when applying for an extension. You must apply before your current visitor visa expires.
• Genuine Visitor: You must continue to meet the requirements of a visitor visa. This means you must show that you intend to leave Canada at the end of your extended stay, and that you have sufficient funds to support your stay without working.
• Valid Reason for Extension: You need to provide a valid reason for wanting to extend your stay. This can include tourism, family visits, or personal reasons, but you will need to demonstrate why you cannot leave Canada by the expiration date of your visitor visa.
• Financial Support: You must show that you have enough money to support yourself and any dependents during the extended stay. This could include bank statements, pay stubs, or other proof of income.

How to Apply for a Visitor Visa Extension

Follow these steps to apply for a visitor visa extension in Canada:

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for a visitor visa extension, including having legal status in Canada and having a valid reason for extending your stay.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all the necessary documents for your application. These may include:

• Your passport or travel document.
• Your current visitor visa (if applicable).
• Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your extended stay, such as bank statements, pay slips, or a letter of financial support.
• A letter explaining why you need to extend your stay and your intention to leave Canada at the end of the extension.
• Any other documents that might support your extension application, such as family invitations or medical records (if applicable).

Step 3: Submit Your Application

You can apply for a visitor visa extension online or by submitting a paper application. When applying online, you must create an account with IRCC and submit all documents electronically. If applying by paper, you must send your completed application to the appropriate visa office.

Ensure that you submit the correct application forms, including the Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor (IMM 5708), along with the required fees.

Step 4: Wait for the Processing of Your Application

After submitting your application, IRCC will process it. The processing time can vary, so it is important to apply as early as possible. While waiting for a decision, you are allowed to stay in Canada under your original visa conditions as long as you applied before your visa expired.

Step 5: Receive Your Extension Decision

If your application is approved, you will receive a new visitor visa or an extension of your current status. If your application is refused, you may be required to leave Canada. In some cases, you may be able to appeal the decision or reapply.

Duration of Visitor Visa Extension

The length of time you can stay in Canada with an extended visitor visa depends on the circumstances of your application. Typically, visitor visa extensions are granted for six months or less, depending on your specific situation. The IRCC will decide the duration based on the information you provide about your stay and the reason for the extension.

Important Considerations

• Apply Early: It is crucial to apply for the extension well before your visa expires. Applying early ensures you maintain legal status while waiting for a decision.
• Maintain Legal Status: If you apply for an extension before your visitor visa expires, you can stay in Canada while your application is being processed. If you apply after your visa expires, you may be out of status and may need to leave Canada.
• Financial Support: You must be able to demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself during the extended stay. Without proof of sufficient funds, your application may be denied.
• No Work or Study: As a visitor, you are not allowed to work or study in Canada unless you have a work permit or study permit. If you wish to work or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate permits.

Processing Time for Visitor Visa Extension

The processing time for a visitor visa extension can vary, depending on the volume of applications and your specific case. You can check the estimated processing time on the IRCC website for more information.