One of the most common questions visitors to Canada ask is how to extend their visitor visa and prolong their stay in the country. If you wish to remain in Canada beyond the period granted on your visitor visa, you may consider applying for a Visitor Record (VR). 

A Visitor Record is not a visa but an official document that allows non-Canadian and non-permanent residents to legally extend their stay beyond the original conditions set by their visa.

In this article, TWA will explain everything you need to know about the Visitor Record, how it differs from a visitor visa, and how to apply for a visitor visa extension in Canada. 

How to Extend Your Stay as a Visitor in Canada?

Eligibility for Visitor Record Application

You need a visitor record if:

• • You want to extend your stay in Canada.
    Whether you are here as a visitor, a worker who is authorized to work without a work permit, or a student who is authorized to study without a study permit, you will need a visitor record to extend your stay in Canada.It is important to note that, no matter how you initially entered Canada, whether with a visitor visa, an eTA (electronic travel authorization), or another type of document. If you want to stay longer in Canada, a visitor record is required to ensure you maintain your legal status in the country.

• • You want to change your temporary resident category.
    If you want to transition from a study permit holder or a work permit holder to a visitor, you are required to apply for a visitor record.

What is a Visitor Record (VR)?

A Visitor Record (VR) is an official document issued to foreign nationals who are seeking to enter or are already in Canada, whether they require a visa or not. The visitor record plays a crucial role in defining the conditions and duration of a temporary resident’s stay in Canada.

A visitor record may be issued for the following reasons:

1. 1. Extending or limiting the duration of stay: It can be used to either extend or restrict the length of time a temporary resident is allowed to stay in Canada. This is vital for individuals who need more time for their visit or those who need to shorten their stay.
   2. Specify conditions of stay: The record specifies any conditions that apply during your stay in Canada.

When it comes to issuing a visitor record, there are specific scenarios managed by two main entities: the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Visitor Record issued by CBSA:
A border services officer (BSO) from the CBSA can issue a visitor record at the port of entry (POE) when a foreign national arrives in Canada. This issuance typically occurs if the officer determines that it is necessary to document a length of stay that differs from the standard six months.

For example, the officer believes it is essential to either limit or extend the foreign individual’s authorized stay based on specific conditions.

Visitor Record issued by IRCC:
On the other hand, IRCC may issue a visitor record:

• • To allow a temporary resident to remain in Canada beyond their initial authorized stay.
  • If a temporary resident has lost their status and successfully restored their status, a visitor record may be issued to them.
  • If there’s a need to change the conditions of a temporary resident’s stay in Canada.

Visitor Record vs Visitor Visa

Visitor Visa
A Visitor Visa, also called a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV),  is required for citizens of visa-required countries to enter Canada as visitors. If you are applying for a study permit or work permit for the first time, you will automatically receive a Visitor Visa when your application is approved. However, if you wish to extend your temporary status, such as a tourist visa, work permit, or student permit, you will need a Visitor Record.

Visitor Record (VR)
A Visitor Record is a document issued to foreign nationals, whether they require a visa or are visa-exempt. This document outlines the conditions and duration of their temporary stay in Canada. For those who successfully apply for an extension of their Canadian visa, the Visitor Record serves as proof of IRCC approval for their extended stay.

How long can I extend my stay in Canada?

When you receive a visitor record after submitting an in-Canada application, it usually grants you an extension or restoration of your status for six months. However, it’s important to understand that this duration can vary depending on the specifics of each case. Factors such as your situation, the reasons for your application, and any conditions attached to your stay may influence the length of the extension or restoration granted.

When to apply for a VR?

If you’re currently in Canada and wish to extend your stay or change your status (for example, from a student or work permit to a visitor), it’s important to apply for a Visitor Record before your current status expires. 

It’s advisable to begin preparing your Visitor Record application early and submit it at least 30 days before your authorized stay expires. 

To know when your status expires, you can refer to the following: 

• • Passport stamp (If you don’t have a stamp in your passport, your expiry date defaults to six months from the date you entered Canada.)
  • Study Permit
  • Work Permit
  • Visitor Record

If you apply on time, you will maintain your legal status in Canada while waiting for a decision, allowing you to remain in the country until your application is processed.

If your temporary resident status has expired, you are not eligible to apply for an extension of your Canadian visa. If you wish to continue staying in Canada after your status has expired, you can apply for Status Restoration within 90 days of losing your status; otherwise, you must leave Canada.

Visitor Record Processing Time

The current processing time for Visitor Records is 120 days. (Updated in October 2024)

To learn the most up-to-date processing time, please visit IRCC’s website.

Visitor Record Application Fee

The application fee for Visitor Record is from 100 CAD.

How to apply for a visitor record in Canada?

If you are planning to stay longer in Canada, or if you need to change your temporary resident category, a visitor record is essential.

Before applying, verify that you meet the requirements for a Visitor Record. You must be in Canada and apply before your current status expires.

Step 1: Pay the required fees
Step 2: Prepare all the necessary documents
Step 3: Fill out the visitor record application form carefully and accurately
Step 4: Keep copies of all the application documents
Step 5: Apply online and submit all the application forms, proof of payment, and supporting documents
Step 6: Wait for the result

Visitor Record Application Refusal

Common Reasons for Refusal

1. Incomplete Application:
   Missing documents or information can lead to refusal.
2. Inadequate Explanation of Intent:
   You must clearly state your reasons for wanting to extend your stay. If the immigration officer is not convinced of your intent (e.g., tourism, visiting family), your application may be denied.
3. Previous Immigration Violations:
   A history of violating visa conditions can negatively impact your application.

If you believe the refusal was unjust and wish to stay in Canada, you should consult an immigration consultant for professional guidance. Otherwise, you need to leave Canada before your current status expires.

A Visitor Record application refusal can be challenging, but understanding the reasons behind it and taking appropriate steps can help you in the future.

Extend Visitor Record in Canada

You can apply to renew a visitor record and extend your temporary resident status multiple times. Each time you apply, you must submit a new application form and pay the required fees, similar to the initial application. 

However, you must provide evidence that your stay in Canada remains temporary.

Extend Stay in Canada – Visitor Record FAQ

Can I leave and return to Canada with a permit?

A visitor record allows you to extend your stay in Canada as a visitor, but it’s important to note that it doesn’t grant you the ability to leave and re-enter Canada. If you plan to travel outside Canada or the United States, you’ll need a valid entry document—such as a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)—to return to Canada. The visitor record only extends your legal stay within Canada and does not function as a re-entry permit.

How long can I extend my visitor visa in Canada?

To extend your stay in Canada, you can apply for a Visitor Record, which allows you to extend your stay beyond the initial period. A Visitor Record typically extends your stay by up to 6 months, but the length of the extension can vary based on individual circumstances. It’s important to apply for the extension at least 30 days before your current status expires.