How to Legally Extend Your Stay in Canada After Work Permit Expires
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With Canada revising its immigration plans for 2025-2027 and focusing on lowering the temporary resident population, many workers nearing the end of their work permits are seeking legal ways to extend their stay. One viable option is switching to visitor status through a Visitor Record, which allows them to remain in the country lawfully.
A Visitor Record (VR) serves as an official document granting legal status as a visitor after a work permit expires. Understanding the process of applying for VR is essential for those wanting to stay longer in Canada. This blog provides a step-by-step approach to making a smooth transition with a VR.
What is a Visitor Record (VR)?
A Visitor Record (VR) is a document that allows you to stay in Canada legally after your work permit expires. However, it doesn't grant permission to work or study during this time.
Here’s what you should know about the Visitor Record.
- It is a status document, which extends your legal stay in Canada but does not authorize employment or education.
- You must apply for it before your work permit expires to maintain your status in Canada.
- It is only valid within Canada and does not allow you to re-enter the country if you leave unless traveling to the U.S. or St. Pierre and Miquelon under the contiguous territory rule.
Also Read: IRCC Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan 2025 - 2027
Applying for a Visitor Record
Staying in Canada legally after your work permit expires requires careful planning and timely action. To avoid complications, it's essential to follow the right procedures and provide strong supporting documents when applying for an extension. Here’s what you need to do.
- Apply Before Your Work Permit Expires: Submitting your application on time allows you to maintain legal status under "Maintained Status" or "Implied Status," letting you stay in Canada while your request is processed.
- Submit Your Application Through the IRCC Secure Account: To ensure accuracy and avoid errors, use your IRCC Secure Account to file a Visitor Record (VR) application. Keep in mind that applying for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) via the IRCC Portal will not serve this purpose.
- Prove Your Temporary Stay Intentions: To strengthen your application, provide evidence that you do not plan to stay in Canada permanently -
- Ties to Home Country: Submit documents such as property ownership records, job commitments, or strong family connections to demonstrate your intent to return.
- Financial Resources: Bank statements or proof of financial backing will show that you can support yourself without working.
- Departure Plans: A clear and well-documented exit strategy will reinforce your commitment to leaving Canada when your visitor status expires.
Check Out: IEC 2025 First Draw: 10,274 Canada Work Permits Issued
Understanding Maintained (Implied) Status
Once you submit a VR application, you are granted a period of legal stay known as implied status (sometimes referred to as applied status). During this time:
- You can lawfully remain in Canada while your application is being processed.
- If your permit expires before a decision is made, your stay continues to be legal under this status.
- Temporary residents should submit their extension requests at least 30 days before their current permit expires to avoid disruptions.
Important Restriction: If you are transitioning from a work permit to visitor status, you must stop working once your work permit expires. You cannot continue employment under implied status in this case.
Also Read: 4 New Canada PR Pathways for Skilled Professionals in 2025
Understanding Legal Provisions for Extending Your Stay
When your work permit nears expiry, understanding Canada’s immigration regulations can help you navigate the extension process smoothly. Certain legal provisions allow temporary residents to remain in the country under specific conditions.
- Key Regulations: Sections 183(5) and 186(u) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) outline the rules governing extensions and continued stay.
- Automatic Extension: If you submit your application before your current permit expires, you may be allowed to stay legally while awaiting a decision on your visitor record (VR) application.
Restoring Your Status
If your temporary resident status has expired, you must act quickly and meet specific conditions to apply for restoration.
Key Points on Restoration of Status:
- 90-Day Window: According to Regulation 182 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR), you have up to 90 days from the date your status expires to submit a restoration request.
- Application Requirements: Your application must be accurate, fully completed, and submitted with all necessary fees, including a CAD 200 restoration fee per application. Additional processing fees may also apply.
- Eligibility Limitations: Not all cases of non-compliance qualify for restoration. For instance, students who failed to maintain enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) under Regulation 220.1(1) are ineligible to restore their student status.
Quick Read: Government of Canada Hiring: Job Openings Nationwide
Extend Your Work Permit in Canada Seamlessly with GetGIS!
If your work permit expires, acting quickly and following the legal steps for extension is crucial to maintaining your status in Canada. Ensure your application is complete and meets all requirements for eligibility. By staying informed and proactive, you can extend your stay and continue your journey in Canada legally.
Connect with the immigration experts at GetGIS to navigate the process of extending your stay in Canada with ease. Their expert guidance ensures you meet all legal requirements, submit accurate applications, and explore the best options for restoring or extending your status.
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