Visa Extension and Status Restoration
Extend your stay in Canada or restore your immigration status if it has expired within the last 90 days
Purpose
To provide legal means for temporary residents in Canada to extend their stay or restore their status after expiry.
Eligibility Criteria
Visa Extension
For those whose current stay in Canada is about to expire but who wish to stay longer as visitors, students, or workers.
Status Restoration
Applicable to individuals whose status expired within the last 90 days, allowing them to restore their status to the original or a different temporary status.
Application Process for Visa Extension
Determine Timing
Apply for an extension at least 30 days before your current status expires.
Prepare Required Documents
Assemble necessary documents such as your passport, current visa, proof of financial support, and any additional supporting documentation depending on your visa type.
Complete Application Form
Use forms IMM 5708 for visitor extensions, or respective forms for workers and students.
Pay the Application Fee
Submit the required fee online and include the receipt with your application.
Submit Application
Apply online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
Application Process for Status Restoration
Assess Eligibility
Ensure the application is within 90 days after your status expired.
Prepare Required Documents
Similar documentation as for extensions, including additional explanation for the lapse in status.
Complete Restoration Form
Use form IMM 5708 or the relevant one for your specific situation.
Pay the Restoration and Processing Fee
Fees include both the restoration and application processing fees.
Submit Application
Submit the application online or through designated mailing addresses.
Important Considerations
Implied Status
If you apply for an extension before your current visa expires, you may remain in Canada under the same conditions as your previous visa while awaiting a decision.
90-Day Restoration Window
Restoration application must be submitted within 90 days of losing status.
Travel Restrictions
Do not leave Canada while your application for extension or restoration is processing, as it could lead to complications.
Benefits
- Legal ability to extend stay and retain legal status in Canada.
- Restoration allows individuals to rectify accidental overstays.
Restrictions
- Not eligible for restoration if it has been more than 90 days since status expiry.
- Must adhere to all conditions set by IRCC during the extension or restoration process.
Actions if Application is Refused
Appeal or Reapply
Depending on the reasons for refusal, some decisions can be appealed, or the applicant can rectify issues and reapply if within the eligible timeframe.
We recommend applying at least 30 days before your current status expires. If you apply before expiry, you generally have implied status to remain in Canada while your extension is processed.
Status restoration lets you apply to regain visitor, worker, or student status if you fell out of status, generally within 90 days of it expiring. We assess your situation quickly since this window is time-sensitive.
If you're outside the restoration window, your options become more limited and may include leaving Canada and reapplying from abroad, or in some cases pursuing other applications. We review your specific circumstances to identify the best path forward.
If you applied for your extension before your current permit expired, you typically maintain your existing conditions (work or study) under implied status until a decision is made.