Canada Visitor Record

What Is a Canada Visitor Record?

A Canada Visitor Record is a document issued by IRCC that allows a visitor to stay in Canada beyond the period originally granted at entry. It is not a visa and does not allow travel outside Canada, but it confirms that the individual has legal visitor status for a longer period under specified conditions. People who need more time in Canada for personal, family, or travel-related reasons often use it.

Who Needs a Canada Visitor Record?

Visitors already in Canada who want to stay longer than their allowed entry time require a Canada Visitor Record. This usually applies to visitors whose current status is about to run out and who want to stay in Canada legally without leaving the country.

In some cases, individuals consult a Canada immigration consultant to confirm eligibility and avoid overstaying their legal status.

When Should You Apply for a Visitor Record?

You should apply for a Canada Visitor Record before your current visitor status expires. If you apply early, you will be able to stay in Canada legally while IRCC looks over your application.

If you send in your application before the deadline, you can stay in Canada as “maintained” status until a decision is made, even if your original stay period ends while your application is being processed.

Validity of a Canada Visitor Record

The validity of a Canada Visitor Record is decided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on a case-by-case basis. It is usually given for a certain amount of time based on the reason for the stay and the information in the application.

The visitor record will clearly show the expiration date. To stay in Canada legally, you must leave the country or apply for another extension before that date.

Canada Visitor Record vs Visitor Visa

• A Canada Visitor Record and a Visitor Visa serve different purposes and are not the same.
• A Visitor Visa allows you to enter Canada. It is placed in your passport and is used only for travel and entry into the country.
• You can enter Canada with a Visitor Visa. It goes in your passport and is only good for travel and getting into the country.
• If you already live in Canada, a Visitor Record lets you stay longer. If you leave Canada, you can’t come back in. It is a separate document that shows how long you are allowed to stay.

What is Permitted and Not Permitted by a Canada Visitor Record

A Canada Visitor Record lets you stay in Canada longer legally, but there are clear limits to how long you can stay.

What it allows:

• Stay in Canada beyond your original authorized period.
• Remain in Canada under legal status while awaiting a decision (if applied on time).
• Travel within Canada domestically.

What it does not allow:

• Work in Canada.
• Study in Canada.
• Re-enter Canada if you leave the country.
• Replace a visitor visa or travel document.

How to Apply for a Canada Visitor Record

Applying for a Canada Visitor Record involves a few structured steps:

1. Find out if you qualify: Check that you are already in Canada and that your visitor status is still satisfactory.
2. Fill out the application form: To stay longer, fill out the IRCC form [IMM 5708].
3. Get your supporting documents ready: These should show your current status, your financial situation, and why you need an extension.
4. Pay the Processing Fee: As part of your application, pay the fee online.
5. Send in the Application: You can send your application to IRCC online or by mail.
6. Wait for a Decision: While IRCC reviews your application, keep a copy of it and stay legal.

To ensure accuracy and timely submission, applicants can either independently complete the process or seek assistance from a Canada immigration consultant.

Documents Required for Canada Visitor Record

To apply for a Canada Visitor Record, you will generally need the following documents:

• A valid passport or travel document.
• Proof of current status in Canada (e.g., your visitor visa or entry stamp).
• Application form (IMM 5708) completed and signed.
• Proof of financial means to support your stay in Canada.
• A letter explaining the reason for your stay extension.
• Any additional documents requested by IRCC, such as ties to your home country or evidence of ongoing commitments.

Canada Visitor Record Processing Time & Fees

The time it takes to process visitor records depends on how complete they are and how busy the IRCC is. The official IRCC guidelines don’t give a specific time frame.

Fees

• The official Canada government fee for a Visitor Record extension is currently CAD 100 per person.
• If biometrics are required, an additional fee (generally CAD 85) may apply, per other credible sources.

Why Choose Immigration Consultants for Canada Visitor Record Application?

Immigration consultants can make the Canada Visitor Record application process smoother and less stressful. They help make sure your application is complete, help you get the right documents, and talk to IRCC for you if you need them to. Working with a Canada immigration consultant in Dubai  like CanApprove can reduce errors, avoid delays, and increase confidence that your application meets all requirements.