Extension of Stay Application (Visitor Record)

Extension of Stay Application (Visitor Record)

Canada welcomes millions of visitors each year, whether for tourism, business, or family reunification. While most visitors are granted a stay of up to six months upon arrival, circumstances may arise where an individual wishes to extend their stay beyond the authorized period. In such cases, applying for a Visitor Record is essential. We also provide services related to extension of stay as a student and worker.

At Kahlon Law Office, we assist individuals in navigating the complexities of extending their temporary status in Canada, ensuring that their applications meet all legal requirements and have the highest chances of approval.

What is a Visitor Record?

A Visitor Record is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that extends a foreign national’s legal stay in Canada as a visitor. It is important to note that a Visitor Record does not act as a visa or permit—it only allows the holder to remain in Canada for an extended period. It also does not permit re-entry if the visitor leaves Canada during the extension period.

Who needs a Visitor Record?

You may need to apply for a Visitor Record if:

  • Your initial authorized stay in Canada is expiring, and you wish to remain longer.
  • You entered Canada without receiving an official stamp or date-limited status but want to ensure legal compliance.
  • You are transitioning from another temporary status (e.g., a study or work permit) to visitor status.

Important: If your status expires before applying for an extension, you may still have 90 days to apply for restoration of status—but failure to act promptly could result in removal from Canada.

When and how to apply for an extension?

To maintain your legal status, it is crucial to apply for an extension before your current status expires. The application must be submitted online through IRCC’s portal, and you will need to provide:

  •  A valid passport
  •  Proof of financial means to support your extended stay
  •  A detailed explanation of why you need to stay longer
  •  Any supporting documents related to your purpose of stay

Once you submit your application, you benefit from maintained status, meaning you can legally stay in Canada while waiting for a decision. However, you must comply with the conditions of your original status (e.g., not working or studying unless authorized).

What are the legal considerations and risks of overstaying?

Overstaying in Canada without a valid status can lead to:

  • Loss of temporary resident status
  • Denial of future visa applications
  • A possible removal order affecting future re-entry

Our firm ensures that your application is strong, timely, and legally sound, reducing the risk of refusals and complications.

Case Law and Legal Precedents

Recent cases have reinforced the importance of clear intent and financial stability in extension applications. For instance, in Zheng v. Canada (2022 FC 987), the court upheld IRCC’s decision to refuse an extension due to insufficient proof of financial self-sufficiency. Similarly, in Singh v. Canada (2023 FC 431), an application was denied because the applicant failed to demonstrate strong ties to their home country, raising concerns about their intent to leave.

At Kahlon Law Office, we help you present a compelling case with solid documentation to prevent such pitfalls.

Why choose Kahlon Law Office?

Our immigration lawyers provide:

  •  Personalized legal advice tailored to your unique situation
  •  Comprehensive application review to maximize approval chances
  •  Assistance with restoration of status if your permit has expired
  •  Guidance on transitioning to other legal statuses, such as study or work permits