If you’re in Canada on a temporary visa—whether as a visitor, student, or worker—you may need to extend your stay for various reasons. This guide outlines the steps for extending different types of visas in Canada, including visitor visas, student permits, work permits, and super visas, to ensure you remain compliant with immigration laws.

Key Takeaways

• Visitor Visas: Extensions must be applied for at least 30 days before your current visa expires.
• Student Permits: Ensure you meet academic progress requirements before applying for an extension.
• Work Permits: Requires employer-specific documentation in most cases.
• Super Visas: Parents and grandparents visiting on a super visa can apply for extensions to continue their stay.

General Requirements for Visa Extensions in Canada

1. Application Timing:
   • Apply at least 30 days before your current visa or permit expires.
   • If your application is submitted on time, you can stay in Canada under “implied status” while awaiting a decision.
2. Eligibility:
   • Valid passport (must remain valid for the duration of the extension).
   • Compliance with the conditions of your current visa.
3. Application Platform:
   • Most applications are submitted online via the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
4. Fees:
   • Extension fees vary depending on the visa type (e.g., CAD 100 for visitor visa extensions).

1. How to Extend a Visitor Visa in Canada

Who Needs a Visitor Visa Extension?

If you’re in Canada on a tourist visa (Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) and wish to stay longer, you must apply to extend your stay.

Steps to Extend a Visitor Visa

1. Gather Documents:
   • Valid passport.
   • Proof of funds (e.g., bank statements).
   • Travel itinerary (if applicable).
2. Complete Form IMM 5708:
   • Use this form to apply for an extension as a visitor.
3. Submit Application Online:
   • Create an account on the IRCC portal and upload your application package.
4. Pay the Application Fee:
   • CAD 100 for visitor visa extensions.
5. Receive a Visitor Record:
   • If approved, you’ll receive a visitor record, specifying your new authorized stay duration.

2. How to Extend a Student Visa in Canada

Eligibility for Extension

• You must be actively enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI).
• Ensure you’re making satisfactory academic progress.

Steps to Extend a Study Permit

1. Gather Documents:
   • Proof of enrollment.
   • Academic transcripts.
   • Valid passport.
2. Complete Form IMM 5709:
   • Use this form to apply for a study permit extension.
3. Submit Online Application:
   • Upload your documents to the IRCC portal.
4. Pay the Fee:
   • CAD 150 for study permit extensions.
5. Receive Decision:
   • Once approved, your new study permit will be mailed to you.

3. How to Extend a Work Visa in Canada

Types of Work Permits

• Employer-Specific: Requires a new job offer and Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
• Open Work Permit: Doesn’t require a job offer and is available under specific programs (e.g., spousal open work permits).

Steps to Extend a Work Permit

1. Confirm Eligibility:
   • Check whether you’re eligible to apply for an extension under your current work conditions.
2. Gather Documents:
   • Employment offer letter (if applicable).
   • LMIA document (for employer-specific permits).
   • Proof of continued employment.
3. Submit Application:
   • Complete the work permit extension application via the IRCC portal.
4. Pay the Fee:
   • CAD 155 for work permit extensions.
5. Await Decision:
   • You can continue working under “implied status” while your application is processed.

4. How to Extend a Super Visa

Eligibility

Super visas are issued for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing them to stay for up to two years per entry.

Steps to Extend a Super Visa

1. Gather Documents:
   • Proof of financial support from your child or grandchild in Canada.
   • Valid medical insurance coverage for the extended period.
2. Submit Application:
   • Use the IRCC portal to apply for an extension.
3. Pay the Fee:
   • CAD 100 for super visa extensions.
4. Await a Visitor Record:
   • If approved, the extension will allow continued stay beyond the original two years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I extend my visitor visa in Canada?
Yes, you can apply for a visitor visa extension by completing the appropriate form and submitting it online.

2. What happens if I apply for an extension after my visa expires?
If you fail to apply before your visa expires, you may need to apply for “restoration of status,” which comes with additional fees and conditions.

3. How much does it cost to extend a visitor visa?
The application fee for a visitor visa extension is CAD 100.

4. Can I continue studying or working while waiting for an extension?
Yes, if you apply before your visa expires, you will have implied status, allowing you to continue studying or working.

5. How long does it take to process a visa extension in Canada?
Processing times vary but typically range from 30 to 90 days.

Conclusion

Extending your visa in Canada is a straightforward process if you meet the requirements and apply on time. Whether you’re a tourist enjoying Canada’s scenic beauty, a student pursuing your studies, or a worker contributing to the economy, understanding the extension process ensures you stay compliant with immigration laws.

For detailed information and to apply online, visit the IRCC official website.