Changing your status after coming to Canada by temporary resident visa
Those who require a visa to come to Canada be informed that you cannot apply for a new Temporary Resident Visa from inside Canada.
Visa Validity Date
When you arrive at the port of entry in Canada, the Officer will stamp your passport or travel document and record the expiration date which is the date by which you must leave Canada. The visa expiration date is shown on the passport or traveling document along with the date the visa was issued. The time between when the visa issuance and the visa expiration date is called your visa validity. The issued visa does not mean that you can enter Canada but permits you to travel to Canada.
Temporary or Non-Immigrant Visa: Purpose of Visitor Visa
The purpose of the issuing visitor/tourist visa under the Canadian Immigration Act is to :
Allow the entry of an individual who wishes to visit Canada for the purpose of doing trade with Canadian companies, for tourism and to allow other foreigners to foster scientific and international understanding, while controlling entry of those who wish to involve in criminal activities in Canada or who are likely to put in danger, the health and safety of the Canadian society.
Who is a Visitor?
A definition of visitor is given under Sec. 2 (1) of the Immigration Act (Act) as a person who is lawfully in Canada as a visitor or who wishes to come into Canada for temporary purpose and who is not :
- A holder of minister’s permit;
- A Canadian permanent resident and citizen;
- An immigrant who is admitted into Canada as his/her examination cannot be concluded at the port of entry by the officer.
What is a Visitor Visa?
A definition of visitor is given under Sec. 2 (1) of the Immigration Act (Act) as a person who is lawfully in Canada as a visitor or who wishes to come into Canada for temporary purpose and who is not :
- A holder of minister’s permit;
- A Canadian permanent resident and citizen;
- An immigrant who is admitted into Canada as his/her examination cannot be concluded at the port of entry by the officer.
Are visitors allowed to extend their stay in Canada?
Visitors are not allowed to stay in Canada more than their validity visa period. But visitors may apply for extension to stay longer. If you decide to stay longer, you must apply for your visa extension 30 days before your temporary resident visa expires.
If you stay longer than the period you are allowed, you may lose your temporary resident status and you could be asked to leave Canada.
Visitor (Temporary Resident) Visa
To visit or transit Canada, all citizens of the countries need to apply for a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) if they do not fall in the list of visitor visa exemption countries.