FAQs about the Validity of Canada’s Tourist Visa

We answer 7 burning questions about your Canadian tourist visa, including how you can enter Canada using a tourist visa that is about to expire.

But before anything else, Canada doesn’t actually have a tourist visa. Rather, Canada has a temporary resident visa. A temporary resident visa is issued to foreign nationals (aka, non-Canadians) who have been approved to temporarily reside in Canada as a tourist, student, or worker. This article answers frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the validity of Canada’s temporary resident visa.

What is the maximum validity of Canada’s temporary resident visa?

A single entry visa is only valid for a one-time visit based on the purpose of your trip. A multiple entry visa can be valid up to 10 years, or up to one month before your passport expires, whichever is earlier.

How long can you stay in Canada per visit?

The duration of your stay in Canada is at the discretion of the border officer. In most cases, you can stay up to 6 months in Canada.

Can you extend your stay past 6 months in Canada as a visitor?

Yes, you can extend your stay as a visitor to Canada. You must apply for an extension of your stay before your status expires. It is advisable to apply at least 30 days before the end of your authorized stay.

Can you still use your visa to enter Canada even if it is expiring in less than 6 months?

Yes, you can. Even if it is valid for only one day more, you can use your visa to enter Canada. The purpose of the visa is to allow you to enter the country, and not to indicate when you can leave. You do not need an active visa to leave Canada.

Can you visit the US from Canada and then return to Canada if your visa has expired?

Yes, you can if you are returning within the period of your authorized stay in Canada. The same applies if you only visited St. Pierre and Miquelon.

How long can you stay in Canada when you re-enter the country after visiting the US or St. Pierre and Miquelon?

This would be at the discretion of the border officer. You may be granted admission for a new 6-month period or you may only continue on the initial granted period.

Are there any exceptions to the 6-month maximum allowable visit to Canada?

Yes. Students and workers can stay longer based on the duration of their studies or job offer. Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents can also stay up to 2 years at a time by applying for a super visa.

We hope this article has answered your questions! If you need anything else, you can:

• Contact us if you have more questions;
• Read about the temporary resident visa;
• Learn about studying or working in Canada; or,
• Find out how to apply for a parent/grandparent super visa.

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