The purpose of these changes is to ensure the integrity of the immigration system, while still providing real travellers an opportunity to live legally in the country under the right circumstances.
Why change?
(IRCC), The Canadian Immigration Department has seen an increase in visa dispensation abuse. Many individuals have submitted unfair applications to extend their stay, often for no valid reasons. It has expressed concern about the system’s misuse to avoid returning home.
To address the issue, the government has revised its policy, making the rules stricter while still supporting those who meet the requirements to extend their stay.
What situation is maintained?
Suppose you are applying to extend your visitor visa before it expires. It is referred to as the maintained position (also known as the first earned position).
However, the new rules that were launched in mid-2012 provide significant changes in how the situation works:
- If you present a proper extension request with valid documentation, you are still preserved during the maintenance situation.
- If you repeatedly request extensions without a strong justification, the IRCC may view it as an attempt to abuse the system.
What happens if you’re done?
Oversight: A visitor visa means that you remain in Canada beyond the authorised time limit without proper legal permission. Under new rules:
- If your visa has expired and you have not applied for an extension promptly, you will lose your legal status.
- You may still be able to restore your position within 90 days, but this is not guaranteed and requires a strong justification.
- Future visa reductions or removal orders can occur as a result of overvoltage without action.
Extending Your Stay: How to Do It Right
If you are a visitor in Canada and wish to extend your stay, here’s how to stay compliant under the new rules:
- Apply before your visa expires – ideally 30 days in advance.
- Submit strong documentation:
- A clear reason for your extension (family visit, travel, medical treatment, etc.)
- Proof of financial support
- Return flight ticket (if available)
- Travel insurance
Avoid filing repeated extensions unless your situation truly requires it.
What’s Different Now?
The major shift in the updated policy is IRCC’s scrutiny of multiple extension applications. In the past, applicants could repeatedly apply for extensions while maintaining their status. Now, this behaviour can raise red flags, and your legal status may no longer be protected if the intent appears questionable.
Put:
- One justified application = Protected
- Multiple unjustified applications = Risk of losing status
Who Is Affected Most?
These changes mostly impact:
- Visitors are staying for long periods without clear reasons.
- International students are trying to buy time by switching to visitor status.
- Individuals waiting for other visa processes who file unnecessary extensions
If you are in Canada and visitors are considering expanding migration, it is necessary to follow the new guidelines strictly. Otherwise, you may be forced to leave the country or face complications with future visa applications.
Last view
Canada continues to welcome visitors who follow the rules and apply responsibly. The visa length policy is not to prevent the journey, but to prevent the system from behaving. Suppose your intentions are real and that you seek perfectly with complete openness. In that case, there is a good chance of approval in your extension request, even if you exceed the originally scheduled amount.
If you are unsure of your situation or need help to prepare a solid visa extension request, it is recommended that you consult a licensed immigration adviser or legal advisor.
