What happens if my visitor visa expires in Canada?

Overstaying a Canadian Visitor Visa: Consequences and Mitigation

A visitor visa allows individuals to enter Canada temporarily for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, or business. Adhering to the visa’s validity period is essential, as overstaying can result in severe consequences.

Consequences of Overstaying

Overstaying a Canadian visitor visa can lead to serious repercussions, including:

• Loss of Status: The visa holder immediately loses their authorized status in Canada and becomes an illegal immigrant.
• Rejection of Future Visa Applications: Overstaying a visa damages an individual’s credibility, making it highly unlikely that future visa applications will be approved.
• Enforcement Measures: Immigration officers may detain or remove overstayers from Canada.
• Criminal Charges: In some cases, overstaying can result in criminal charges, such as misrepresentation or fraud.

Mitigating the Consequences

Prompt action is crucial if you realize that your visitor visa is about to expire. Here are steps you can take:

1. Apply for an Extension: If you have a valid reason for staying longer, such as unexpected circumstances or medical reasons, you can apply for an extension before your visa expires.
2. Leave Canada and Re-Enter: If an extension is not granted, the safest course of action is to leave Canada and re-enter on a new visa. This requires applying for a new visa from outside Canada.
3. Contact the Immigration Office: If you are unable to leave Canada before your visa expires, contact the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) or Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) immediately. They may consider granting an exception or offering other options.

Importance of Compliance

Compliance with the validity period of a visitor visa is paramount. Overstaying can have far-reaching consequences that can impact an individual’s ability to travel to Canada in the future. By taking prompt action to avoid overstaying, individuals can protect their immigration status and maintain a positive relationship with Canadian immigration authorities.