Canada is a great country to visit, study, work, or live in, but sometimes you may want to stay longer than your authorized period. Whether you are a visitor, a student, a worker, or a temporary resident, you have options to extend or renew your stay in Canada, depending on your situation and eligibility. Here are some tips on how to do that.
- Apply for an extension or renewal before your current status expires: The most important thing to remember is that you must apply for an extension or renewal at least 60 days before your current status expires. This will ensure that you have enough time to process your application and receive your new document by mail. If you apply after your status expires, you will lose your legal status in Canada and may face removal or deportation.
- Apply online for a visitor record, a study permit, or a work permit: Depending on the type of status you have, you will need to apply online for a different document to extend or renew your stay in Canada. For example, if you are a visitor, you will need to apply for a visitor record; if you are a student, you will need to apply for a study permit; and if you are a worker, you will need to apply for a work permit. You will need to fill out an online application form, pay the required fees, and submit the necessary documents and evidence to support your application.
- Meet the eligibility requirements and follow the instructions: To be eligible for an extension or renewal of your stay in Canada, you will need to meet certain requirements and follow the instructions carefully. For example, you will need to show that you have a valid reason for staying longer in Canada, such as continuing your studies, completing your work contract, visiting your family or friends, or exploring more of the country. You will also need to show that you have enough funds to support yourself and your dependents during your stay, that you have no criminal record or security issues, that you have medical insurance coverage, and that you plan to leave Canada at the end of your authorized period.
- Check the processing times and the status of your application: After you submit your application online, you will receive an acknowledgement of receipt and a confirmation number. You can use this number to check the processing times and the status of your application on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You can also sign up for email notifications or create an online account to receive updates on your application. The processing times may vary depending on the type of document you are applying for, the volume of applications received by IRCC, and the complexity of your case.
- Receive your new document and comply with the conditions: Once your application is approved, you will receive your new document by mail. This document will have an expiry date and some conditions that you must comply with during your stay in Canada. For example, you may have restrictions on where you can study or work, how many hours you can work per week, or whether you need to report any changes in your situation to IRCC. You must follow these conditions and respect the laws of Canada. If you fail to do so, you may lose your status and face penalties.
These are some of the steps on how to extend or renew your stay in Canada as a temporary resident. If you need more information or assistance with your application, contact Empire Fly today for a free consultation. Empire Fly is a reliable and certified Canada immigration agency serving individuals across Africa, including countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa. Whether you want to visit, study, work, or live in Canada permanently, Empire Fly can guide you through the process and make it easier for you. Contact Empire Fly today and start planning your future in Canada!