How to Extend a Visa in Canada (2025): Step-by-Step Guide

If you are in Canada as a visitor, worker, or student and need more time to stay, you must apply for an extension before your current permit or status expires. The application process and requirements differ based on your status. Read on for the latest 2025 process and expert tips.

Visitor Visa Extension

• Apply Online: Use the official IRCC portal to request a visitor record—this document allows you to remain in Canada as a visitor beyond your initial authorized period. The visitor record is not a visa, but it extends your legal status.
• When to Apply: Submit your application at least 30 days before your current status expires. You may stay in Canada under maintained (implied) status while your application is being processed if you applied before your visa expired.
• What You Need:
  • Valid passport
  • Form IMM 5708 (Application to Change Conditions or Extend Stay as a Visitor)
  • Proof of funds
  • Letter explaining your reason for extension
  • Other supporting documents as requested
• Fees: Visitor extension costs $100 per person.
• If Already Expired: You may apply to restore your visitor status within 90 days if you continue to meet initial conditions (additional $239.75 fee).
• Processing Time: As of mid-2025, online applications take about 107 days.

Work Permit Extension

• Who Can Apply: If your Canadian work permit is expiring, apply online to extend or amend it at least 30 days before expiry. You need a valid job offer and must be compliant with your current permit conditions.
• Steps:
  1. Create/log into your IRCC account
  2. Submit a renewal application (employer-specific or open work permit, as eligible)
  3. Upload required documentation (valid passport, job offer/contract, proof of status, LMIA if needed)
  4. Pay applicable fees (usually $155 or more, plus $100 for open work permits)
  5. Continue working under the same conditions if you applied before expiry (maintained status)
• Processing Time: Average is 227 days in 2025, so apply as early as possible—even up to 180 days before expiration.
• Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP): This is usually non-renewable, but other streams like employer-specific work permits or PNPs may be options.

Student (Study Permit) Extension

• When to Apply: For an extension, apply at least 30 days before your current permit expires (processing times can be several weeks).
• Documents: Current study permit, school transcripts/enrollment letter, valid passport, financial proof, completed IMM 5709 form.

General Tips for All Visa Extensions

• Always apply before your status expires to benefit from maintained status.
• Submit complete, accurate documents to avoid delays or refusals.
• Track your application online through your IRCC account.
• Overstaying can result in loss of legal status, ineligibility for future visas, or removal from Canada. Restoration is possible, but must be done quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I travel outside Canada after applying for an extension? If you leave before a decision, you may have to reapply to enter.
• How many times can I extend my visa? There’s no set limit, but you must always provide a convincing reason and show strong ties to your home country.
• Can I switch from a visitor record to a different permit? In many cases, you must apply for the new status from outside Canada, but exceptions exist (e.g., study or open work permit pilot programs).

Why Apply Early?

• Processing times are long (visitor: 107 days, work permit: 227 days, study: up to 220 days), so plan ahead and apply as soon as you qualify.