If you are in Canada on a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV) and want to extend your stay, you must apply for a visitor record before your visa expires. A visitor record allows you to stay longer but does not guarantee re-entry if you leave Canada.
Who Can Apply for a Visitor Visa Extension?
You can apply if you:
- Are already in Canada as a visitor
- Want to extend your stay beyond your current visa expiry date
- Apply before your status expires
When to Apply for an Extension
- Apply at least 30 days before your current visa expires
- If your visa expires while your application is in process, you can stay under implied status until a decision is made
Documents Needed for a Visitor Visa Extension
- Completed IMM 5708 form (Application to Change Conditions or Extend Your Stay in Canada)
- Valid passport (with at least six months of validity)
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, employment letter, sponsor letter)
- Travel history (previous visas, entry stamps)
- Reason for extension (letter explaining why you need to stay longer)
- Proof of ties to home country (employment, property ownership, family obligations)
Steps to Apply for a Visitor Visa Extension
1. Submit an Online Application
- Go to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website
- Log in or create an account through the IRCC Portal
- Fill out the IMM 5708 form and upload required documents
- Pay the application fee (CAD 100)
2. Wait for Processing
- Processing times vary, but you can check the latest updates on the IRCC website
- If additional documents are needed, IRCC will notify you
3. Receive a Decision
- If approved, you will get a visitor record stating the new expiry date
- If denied, you must leave Canada before your current status expires
Can You Stay While Waiting for a Decision?
Yes, if you applied before your visa expired, you will have implied status, meaning you can legally stay in Canada until a decision is made.
What Happens If You Overstay?
- Overstaying can result in removal orders or difficulty re-entering Canada in the future
- If your visa has already expired, apply for restoration of status within 90 days