August 25, 2025
Visitor, Student, or Worker? Here’s How to Extend Your Status in Canada
Extension of Stay in Canada: What Visitors, Students, and Workers Must Know
If your temporary resident status in Canada is about to expire, you may be wondering how you can legally stay longer in Canada. This process is called an Extension of Stay.
An extension of stay in Canada means applying to extend the same immigration status you currently hold (visitor, student, or worker). It does not allow you to switch status (for example, from a worker to a student).
At MyWorld Immigration, we help clients successfully extend their stay and maintain their legal status. Here’s a breakdown of your options depending on your situation.
Extension for Visitors – Apply for a Visitor Record
If you are in Canada as a visitor, you may apply for a Visitor Record.
A Visitor Record is not the same as a Visitor Visa. It allows you to remain in Canada legally for up to 6 months.
You must provide proof of funds and other documents to show you qualify.
You cannot work or study on a Visitor Record.
As of August 2024, visitors in Canada can no longer change status to a work permit holder from inside Canada.
If you travel outside Canada during this period, a Visitor Record alone does not guarantee re-entry—you still need a valid Visitor Visa or eTA.
Extension for Students – Renewing Your Study Permit
If you are an international student in Canada, you must apply for a Study Permit extension before your current permit expires.
To extend, you will need:
- Letter of enrollment from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Proof of tuition payment (fees receipt)
- Proof of funds to support yourself during studies
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) (if required)
Many students choose to enroll in a new program to extend their stay. While this can be costly, it provides additional years in Canada and helps strengthen your profile for Permanent Residency (PR).
Extension for Workers – Renewing Your Work Permit
If you are working in Canada on a work permit, you must extend your status before it expires. Options include:
- A new job offer
- Closed work permit (LMIA-based)
- LMIA-exempt permits (e.g., intra-company transfer, CUSMA)
- Spousal open work permit (if eligible)
Important: To remain on implied status (meaning you can legally continue working while waiting for a decision), you must apply for an extension before your current permit expires.
Never pay an employer for an LMIA — it is illegal. Instead, work with your employer to complete the proper process.
What If Your Extension Is Refused?
If your application is refused:
- You have 90 days from the refusal date to apply for Restoration of Status.
- During this time, you cannot work or study until IRCC approves your restoration.
If you are unable to extend or restore your status, it may be best to return to your home country and strengthen your profile (for example, by gaining more work experience to boost your CRS score for Express Entry).
How MyWorld Immigration Can Help
Applying for an extension of stay in Canada requires careful planning, strong supporting documents, and timely filing. Mistakes can result in losing your status or harming your chances at Canada PR.
At MyWorld Immigration, we:
- Assess your eligibility for an extension or restoration of status
- Prepare and file a strong application with the right documents
- Guide visitors, students, and workers on the best pathway to remain in Canada
- Help you plan long-term strategies for Permanent Residency
Don’t risk your status — let us guide you through your extension process.
WhatsApp: +1-672-399-0000
Website: www.myworldimmigration.com
Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
Instagram: @myworldimmigration
Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
Instagram: @myworldimmigration