Visitor Visa Restoration for Canada

A Visitor Visa Restoration is a process that allows foreign nationals in Canada to restore their status as a visitor after their visa has expired. This is particularly important for individuals who were in Canada on a visitor visa and overstayed or lost their status due to the expiration of their visa.

What is Visitor Visa Restoration?

Visitor visa restoration is a process in which you apply to restore your legal status in Canada as a visitor after your visa has expired. If your visitor visa expires while you are in Canada and you wish to remain in the country for longer, you can apply to restore your visitor status, provided that you meet the eligibility requirements.

Restoring your visitor status allows you to stay in Canada legally without the need to leave and re-enter the country. This process is essential if you want to continue staying in Canada without jeopardizing your future visa or immigration applications.

Eligibility for Visitor Visa Restoration

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

• Expired Visitor Visa: Your visitor visa must have expired. If your status has been expired for more than 90 days, you are not eligible to restore your status as a visitor, and you may need to leave Canada and apply for a new visa from outside Canada.
• Legal Status: You must have maintained legal status in Canada throughout your stay. If you overstayed your visa for more than 90 days, you are no longer eligible for restoration and will need to apply for a new visa from outside Canada.
• Intent to Leave: You must show that you intend to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay. A visitor visa is issued on the condition that the individual leaves Canada at the end of their visit, so it is important to demonstrate that you will comply with this condition.
• Temporary Stay: You must still meet the criteria for a visitor visa, including showing that you will leave Canada after your visit and that you have the financial means to support your stay.

How to Apply for Visitor Visa Restoration

To restore your visitor status, you need to follow the application process below:

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

Before applying for restoration, ensure that your visitor visa has expired within the last 90 days, and that you still meet the other eligibility criteria for visitor status in Canada.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You'll need to submit several documents along with your restoration application, including:

• Your expired visitor visa or record of landing, if applicable.
• Proof of financial support (e.g., bank statements, pay slips) to show that you can support yourself during your stay.
• A letter explaining why you overstayed your visa (if applicable), and why you are requesting restoration of your visitor status.
• Proof that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay (e.g., return flight tickets, accommodation plans).
• Your passport and other identification documents (e.g., copies of your travel documents).

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply online or by paper through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. If you submit a paper application, send the completed forms and required documents to the correct visa office. Make sure to include the required application fees.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

Once you have submitted your application, IRCC will process it and inform you of the decision. The processing time for restoration applications can vary, so it is important to apply as soon as possible after your visa has expired.

Step 5: Receive Your Restoration Decision

If your application is approved, your visitor status will be restored, and you can continue to stay in Canada legally. You may receive a letter or confirmation from IRCC confirming the restoration of your status. If your application is denied, you may be asked to leave Canada and apply for a new visa from outside the country.

What Happens if You Cannot Restore Your Visitor Status?

If you are unable to restore your visitor status (for example, if more than 90 days have passed since the expiration of your visa), you will be required to leave Canada and apply for a new visa from your home country or another country where you have legal status. It is important to note that overstaying your visa can negatively affect future visa applications, so it is crucial to comply with Canadian immigration laws and timelines.

Important Considerations

• Apply Before the Expiry of Your Visa: You must apply for restoration within 90 days of your visa's expiry. After 90 days, you are no longer eligible for restoration and must leave Canada.
• Stay in Legal Status: Ensure that you maintain legal status while waiting for your application to be processed. If your visa has expired and you are in Canada without status, you may be asked to leave the country if your restoration is denied.
• Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): If you want to extend your visit beyond the time allowed, consider applying for a new Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) if restoration is not possible.

Processing Time for Visitor Visa Restoration

The processing time for visitor visa restoration applications can vary based on factors such as the volume of applications and your individual case. It is essential to apply early to ensure you maintain legal status in Canada. Check the IRCC website for the most current processing times.

Conclusion

Visitor visa restoration is an important option for foreign nationals who have overstayed their visa and wish to remain in Canada legally. By following the correct procedure, gathering the necessary documents, and applying in a timely manner, you can restore your visitor status and continue your stay in Canada. However, it is essential to act quickly, as you only have 90 days after your visa expires to apply for restoration. If you are unable to restore your status, you may need to leave Canada and apply for a new visa from outside the country.

For more detailed information on visitor visa restoration and to apply online, visit the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.