Extending Your Stay in Canada: Visitor Records, TRV Stamping & Status Restoration

Learn how to maintain legal status in Canada if you need to extend your stay as a visitor, worker, or student, and what to do if your authorized stay is approaching expiration.

Maintaining legal status is the most critical obligation for anyone residing in Canada on a temporary visa. Understanding the distinction between a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and a Visitor Record ensures compliance with Canadian immigration law.

TRV vs. Visitor Record: The Difference

• Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): The counterfoil sticker in your passport that permits you to enter or travel to a Canadian port of entry.
• Visitor Record: A status document issued by IRCC or CBSA that defines how long you are legally permitted to remain inside Canada.

Applying for an Extension Before Expiry

If you submit an extension application before your current status expires, you benefit from Maintained Status (formerly Implied Status), allowing you to legally remain in Canada under your previous conditions until a decision is rendered.

Restoration of Status

If your status expires before an extension application is submitted, you may have up to 90 days from the expiry date to apply for Restoration of Status. Prompt action with proper legal documentation is crucial.