Bridge to Canada provides professional immigration services for individuals, corporations, businesses, and investors seeking to immigrate to Canada.
How to Apply for a Canadian Visitor Visa Extension
Introduction
If you’re currently in Canada on a visitor visa but wish to stay longer, it’s essential to apply for a visitor visa extension. This process allows you to extend your stay legally while you continue to enjoy your time in Canada. At Bridge to Canada, we specialize in helping visitors navigate this process, ensuring a smooth transition from a temporary stay to an extended one. Working with immigration consultants, especially those experienced in Canadian law, can significantly increase the chances of approval for your extension request.
Understanding the Visitor Visa Extension
To stay in Canada beyond the period authorized on your visitor visa, you must apply for an extension before your current visa expires. This extension is known as a visitor record, which grants you permission to remain in Canada beyond the expiration of your original visa.
Steps to Apply for a Visitor Visa Extension
Check your eligibility: Before applying, ensure you’re eligible to extend your stay. Factors like maintaining your visitor status, not having a criminal record, and having enough financial resources to support your stay will be considered.
Submit your application before the visa expiry date: The critical deadline for applying is 30 days before your visa expires. If you fail to submit your application on time, you could lose your legal status and face possible deportation.
Complete the application form: You’ll need to fill out Form IMM 5708 (Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor or Temporary Resident Permit Holder). Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information about your stay.
Gather supporting documents: To strengthen your application, you’ll need to submit supporting documents, including proof of financial support, a valid passport, and any other documentation that justifies your request for an extension.
Pay the application fee: There is a fee associated with processing your visitor visa extension, which needs to be paid when submitting your application. It is advisable to use a method that ensures timely payment and acknowledgment by immigration authorities.
Wait for approval: After submitting your application, you’ll receive a confirmation that it’s been received. If your extension is approved, you’ll be issued a visitor record, allowing you to legally stay in Canada for the extended period.
Why Work with Bridge to Canada
Navigating the complexities of visa extensions can be challenging. That’s where immigration consultants from Bridge to Canada come in. Our experienced team of immigration consultants in Canada is well-versed in visitor visa extensions, helping you complete your application with precision and accuracy. We understand the nuances of the process and provide personalized guidance to ensure your application has the best chance of approval. Working with immigration consultants in Toronto will ensure that your case is handled by professionals who are familiar with the Canadian immigration system.
If you’re looking to extend your stay in Canada, don’t hesitate to contact us at immigration consultants. We’ll guide you through every step, ensuring that your extension application is submitted on time and that you remain legally in Canada while waiting for a decision.
FAQs
Q: What happens if I apply for a visa extension but my visitor visa expires before I receive a decision?
A: If you apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires, you will be granted implied status. This means you can legally remain in Canada until you receive a decision on your extension application.
Q: Can I leave Canada while waiting for my visa extension to be approved?
A: If you leave Canada while your extension is being processed, you may lose your implied status. When you return, you may need to reapply for a new visitor visa, so it’s best to stay in the country until you receive a decision.
Q: How long can I stay in Canada with a visitor visa extension?
A: The length of your extension will depend on the discretion of the immigration officer assessing your application. It typically ranges from a few months to a year, depending on your circumstances.
Q: Can I work or study with a visitor visa extension?
A: No, a visitor visa extension does not grant you the right to work or study in Canada. If you wish to work or study, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa or permit.
Q: Can my visitor visa extension be denied?
A: Yes, it can be denied if you do not meet the eligibility criteria, fail to provide sufficient documentation, or do not apply on time. This is why it’s essential to work with professional immigration consultants to ensure that your application is strong and complete.
For more personalized assistance, contact us at immigration consultants today to extend your Canadian visit with ease.