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Visitor Visa Services
Canada Visitor Visa Extension 2026
Need more time in Canada? Learn how to extend your visitor status, understand visitor records vs visas, maintain implied status, and navigate the application process successfully.
Processing Time
60-180 days
Government Fee
$100 CAD
Apply Before
90 Days Early
Implied Status
Available
Complete Guide
How to Extend Your Visitor Status in Canada
If you are currently in Canada as a visitor and need more time, you can apply to extend your stay by applying for a visitor record. This is a common option for tourists who want to explore more of Canada, individuals visiting family, or those with temporary reasons to remain in the country.
It's crucial to understand that extending your stay from within Canada results in a visitor record, not a new visitor visa. A visitor record allows you to remain in Canada legally but does NOT permit you to leave and re-enter the country. If you leave Canada, you will need to apply for a new visitor visa from outside Canada to return.
The key to maintaining legal status is timing. You must apply for an extension before your current visitor status expires. This ensures you have "implied status" while your application is processed, allowing you to remain in Canada legally. As of 2026, processing times for visitor extensions range from 60 to 180 days, so applying 90 days in advance is highly recommended.
Your visitor status typically expires 6 months after you entered Canada, but check the date stamped in your passport or on your visitor record if you previously extended. IRCC expects visitors to have genuine temporary intentions and adequate financial support for their extended stay.
Key Points to Remember
- A visitor record extends your stay but does NOT allow re-entry if you leave Canada
- Apply 90 days before expiry to maintain implied status during processing
- Provide clear reasons and supporting documentation for your extension request
- You cannot work or study on a visitor record without proper authorization
Need Help Extending Your Stay?
Our RCIC-licensed consultants can review your situation, prepare a compelling explanation letter, and ensure your extension application meets all IRCC requirements.
Book ConsultationGet Document ChecklistRCIC License: R515110
Important Distinction
Visitor Record vs Visitor Visa
Understanding the critical difference can save you from travel complications
Visitor Visa (TRV)
- Allows you to enter Canada
- Valid for multiple entries (usually)
- Applied for from outside Canada
- Stamped in your passport
- Enables travel to and from Canada
Visitor Record
- Extends your stay while IN Canada
- Does NOT allow re-entry if you leave
- Applied for from within Canada
- Separate paper document
- Leaving Canada abandons your application
Important Warning
If you have a visitor record and leave Canada, you will need to apply for a new visitor visa from outside Canada to return. Plan your travels carefully and do not leave Canada if you only have a visitor record and no valid visitor visa.
Valid Reasons
Common Reasons to Extend Your Stay
IRCC requires a legitimate reason for your extension request
Tourism Extension
You want to continue exploring Canada and have not completed your travel plans.
Family Visit
You wish to spend more time with family members or friends residing in Canada.
Medical Treatment
You require additional time in Canada for medical treatment or recovery.
Business Activities
You need more time for business meetings, conferences, or activities (no work permit required).
Awaiting Application Decision
You are waiting for a decision on another immigration application (PR, work permit, etc.).
Special Circumstances
Unexpected events or circumstances requiring you to remain in Canada temporarily.
Critical Timing
The 90-Day Application Rule
Timing your application correctly is essential to maintain legal status in Canada
Too Late
Applying after expiry means you lose implied status. You must apply for restoration within 90 days at a higher cost.
Minimum (30 Days)
Apply at least 30 days before expiry to be safe, but this is cutting it close given processing times.
Ideal (90 Days)
Apply 90 days in advance for peace of mind. Ensures implied status coverage throughout processing.
Your Visitor Status Expiry Date
Check the date stamped in your passport when you entered Canada, or the date on your current visitor record. Typically expires 6 months after entry if no specific date was given.
Requirements
Eligibility for Visitor Extension
You must meet these requirements to qualify for a visitor record extension
Currently in Canada with valid temporary resident status
Have a valid reason to extend your stay
Sufficient funds to support yourself during extended stay
No criminal record or immigration violations
Willingness to leave Canada when extension expires
Valid passport extending beyond requested stay
Step by Step
How to Apply for Visitor Extension
Follow these steps to extend your visitor status successfully
1
Apply 90 Days Before Expiry
Submit your extension application at least 30 days before your current status expires. Ideally, apply 90 days in advance to account for processing times and avoid gaps in status.
2
Gather Required Documents
Collect your passport, current visa or status document, proof of funds, explanation letter detailing reason for extension, and any supporting documents.
3
Complete Online Application
Create or log into your IRCC online account. Select "Apply to extend my stay in Canada as a visitor" and complete all required forms (IMM 5708).
4
Pay Fees and Submit
Pay the $100 CAD processing fee online and submit your complete application package. Save your confirmation number for tracking.
5
Track Application Status
Monitor your application online. You may be asked for biometrics (if not previously provided) or additional documentation. Under implied status, you can remain in Canada while waiting.
Documentation
Required Documents
Gather these documents before starting your extension application
Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
Current visitor visa or entry stamp
IMM 5708 form (Application to Change Conditions)
Explanation letter for extension request
Proof of financial support
Proof of ties to home country
Digital photo meeting IRCC specifications
Previous Canadian visas/permits (if applicable)
2026 Timeline
Processing Times 2026
Current processing times for visitor extension applications
60 days
Fastest Processing
120 days
Average Processing
180 days
Maximum Processing
Note: Processing times vary based on application complexity, completeness of documentation, and current IRCC workload. Check the official IRCC website for the most current processing times.
Costs
Application Fees
Government fees for visitor extension applications
Visitor Record Extension
$100 CADBiometrics (if required)
$85 CADRestoration of Status (if expired)
$200 CAD + $100 CAD* Fees are subject to change. Check IRCC website for current rates.
Important Concept
Implied Status Explained
Understanding implied status protects you from becoming illegal while your extension is processed
What is Implied Status?
Implied status means you can legally remain in Canada under the same conditions as your previous visitor status while IRCC processes your extension application. You maintain this status until a decision is made.
When Does it Apply?
Implied status ONLY applies if you submit your extension application BEFORE your current visitor status expires. If you apply even one day late, you do not have implied status and are staying illegally.
What Can You Do?
Under implied status, you can continue visiting in Canada but cannot work or study (unless you had separate authorization). You must remain in Canada - leaving abandons your application.
How Long Does it Last?
Implied status continues until IRCC approves or refuses your extension. If approved, you receive a visitor record with a new expiry date. If refused, you must leave Canada immediately.
If Refused
What If Your Extension is Refused?
Options if your visitor extension application is denied
You Must Leave Canada
If your extension is refused, you lose your legal status in Canada immediately. You must leave the country as soon as possible. Staying after a refusal makes you inadmissible and can affect future applications.
Apply for Restoration (If Eligible)
If you missed the deadline and your status expired less than 90 days ago, you can apply for restoration of status. This costs $200 restoration fee plus the $100 visitor record fee. Act quickly - you only have 90 days from expiry.
Consult an Immigration Consultant
An RCIC can review your refusal letter, explain the reasons, and advise on next steps. You may be able to reapply with stronger documentation, apply from outside Canada, or explore other immigration pathways.
Avoid These
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying too late - must apply before status expires to maintain implied status
Insufficient explanation for extension - be clear and specific about your reasons
Inadequate proof of funds - show you can support yourself for the extended period
Missing documents - incomplete applications cause delays and possible refusals
Not understanding visitor record limitations - it does NOT allow re-entry
Failing to demonstrate ties to home country - IRCC needs assurance you will leave
Leaving Canada after applying - this abandons your application
Not applying for restoration within 90 days if status expired
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about visitor visa extensions in Canada
What is the difference between a visitor visa and a visitor record?
A visitor visa (temporary resident visa) is what you need to enter Canada if you're from a visa-required country. A visitor record is an official document that extends your stay while you're already in Canada. When you apply to extend your stay from within Canada, you receive a visitor record, not a new visa. The visitor record allows you to stay in Canada but does NOT allow you to re-enter if you leave.
When should I apply to extend my visitor status in Canada?
Apply at least 30 days before your current status expires, but ideally 90 days in advance. This gives IRCC enough time to process your application and helps avoid any gaps in your legal status. Processing times in 2026 typically range from 60 to 180 days depending on your location and application complexity.
What is implied status for visitors?
Implied status means you can legally remain in Canada under the same conditions as your previous visitor status while waiting for a decision on your extension application. This ONLY applies if you submit your extension before your current status expires. You maintain implied status until IRCC makes a decision on your application.
How long does visitor visa extension processing take in 2026?
Processing times vary by location. Applications from within Canada typically take 60-180 days. Check the IRCC website for current processing times specific to your situation. Applying early (90 days before expiry) ensures you have implied status coverage.
Can I leave Canada while my visitor extension is being processed?
If you leave Canada while your extension is pending, your application is considered abandoned. Also, a visitor record does NOT allow re-entry to Canada. If you need to leave and return, you must apply for a new visitor visa from outside Canada, which could take longer and requires different documentation.
What happens if my visitor extension is refused?
If your extension is refused, you must leave Canada immediately unless you have another valid status. You will not be eligible for implied status after a refusal. Consider applying for status restoration within 90 days if you overstayed, or leave Canada and reapply. Consult an RCIC for options.
How many times can I extend my visitor status?
There is no specific limit to the number of times you can extend visitor status, but IRCC expects visitors to have genuine temporary intentions. Multiple extensions may raise questions about your intent. Each extension request must have valid reasons and demonstrate ties to your home country.
What if my visitor status already expired?
If your status expired within the last 90 days, you may apply for restoration of status. This costs $200 CAD restoration fee plus the $100 CAD visitor record fee. You must apply before the 90-day window closes. If more than 90 days have passed, you must leave Canada.
Can I work or study on a visitor record?
No, a visitor record does not authorize you to work or study in Canada. You can only engage in activities permitted to visitors (tourism, visiting family, short courses under 6 months). If you want to work or study, you must apply for the appropriate permit separately.
Do I need to provide biometrics for a visitor extension?
If you provided biometrics within the last 10 years, you typically do not need to provide them again. However, IRCC may request new biometrics in certain cases. You will receive instructions if biometrics are required for your extension application.
Ready to Extend Your Stay in Canada?
Don't risk your legal status. Book a consultation with our RCIC-licensed consultants for expert guidance on your visitor extension application.