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Visitor Visa Extension in Canada
Extend your stay in Canada as a visitor. Our licensed immigration consultants handle your visitor visa extension from start to finish, preparing your documents and submitting a strong application.
Processing Time
3-5 months
Government Fee
$100 CAD + $85 biometrics
Overview
A visitor visa extension lets you stay in Canada past your initial six month period. Maybe you want more time with family, you're still exploring, or you have personal matters to finish. The process is simple if you know what IRCC wants to see.
When you apply for an extension before your current status expires, you get "implied status" which lets you stay in Canada legally until IRCC decides. This keeps you on the right side of immigration law while you wait.
A successful extension application needs to show three things: strong ties to your home country, enough money to support yourself, and a clear reason for staying longer. Miss any of these and you risk a refusal.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
Currently in Canada with valid visitor status or implied status
Applied for extension before your authorized stay expired
Valid passport that won't expire during your extended stay
Sufficient funds to support yourself during the extended period
Strong ties to your home country (employment, property, family)
Good reason for wanting to stay longer
No violations of your current visitor status conditions
No criminal inadmissibility issues
Checklist
Required Documents
Valid passport (all pages)
Current entry stamp or eTA confirmation
Proof of financial support (bank statements, sponsorship letter)
Letter explaining reason for extension
Proof of ties to home country
Invitation letter from Canadian host (if applicable)
Travel itinerary or planned activities
Digital photos meeting specifications
IMM 5708 Application form
Processing fee payment receipt
Step by Step
How to Apply
1
Check Your Current Status
Verify your authorized stay period (usually stamped in your passport or 6 months from entry). You must apply for extension before this date expires to maintain legal status.
2
Prepare Your Extension Letter
Write a detailed letter explaining why you need to extend your stay, your planned activities, and your intention to return home after the extended period.
3
Gather Supporting Documents
Collect bank statements, proof of ties to your home country, invitation letter from your Canadian host, and any other documents supporting your extension request.
4
Complete the Application Form
Fill out IMM 5708 (Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor) accurately and completely.
5
Submit Online and Pay Fees
Submit your application through the IRCC online portal. Pay the $100 CAD processing fee and $85 biometrics fee if required.
6
Wait for Decision
Remain in Canada under implied status while your application is processed. Be prepared to respond to any requests for additional information.
Avoid These
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying after your authorized stay has already expired
Insufficient proof of financial support for the extended period
Weak explanation letter that doesn't clearly justify the extension
Lack of evidence showing ties to home country
Working or studying without proper authorization while on visitor status
Incomplete application or missing required documents
Not disclosing previous immigration issues or refusals
Requesting an unreasonably long extension without justification
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
As of 2026, visitor visa extensions take about 3 to 5 months. How fast yours gets done depends on IRCC's workload and whether your application is complete. Apply at least 30 days before your status expires to be safe.
Need Help With Your Visitor Visa Extension in Canada?
Our licensed RCIC consultants are here to guide you through the entire process. Book a consultation today and get personalized advice.