Discover How to Easily Extend Your Stay in Canada

Introduction: Are you planning to extend your stay as a visitor in Canada? Before you dive into paperwork, there's important information you need to know to ensure a smooth application process. Here is a detailed guide to help you with your application.

I. Book Biometrics Collection Appointment

When it comes to biometric collection appointments, early booking is crucial. Avoid processing delays by scheduling your appointment as soon as possible. However, if you missed the deadline to book an appointment, don't worry. There may still be options available for you through temporary measures put in place to help applicants.

II. Online Application

Applying online is a faster and more convenient option for extending your stay in Canada. Benefits of applying online include a faster processing time and reduced courier fees and mail delivery times. You'll also have access to additional features such as submitting documents online if requested by the authority and receiving updates on your application status directly in your online account. To apply online, you'll need a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents, and a valid debit or credit card. Before completing your application online, make sure to read the instruction guide, which provides step-by-step guidance.

III. Expiring Passport

If your passport has expired and you're applying for a visitor visa, study permit, work permit, or to extend your stay as a temporary resident in Canada, don't fret. Simply add five years to the printed expiry date on your passport and enter it in the expiry date field of the application form. Along with this change, make sure to include a letter of explanation to state that you're a Venezuelan national with a Venezuelan passport, which has been extended for five years. It's essential to note that if your passport is still expired after adding five years to the printed expiry date, it's considered invalid, and you'll not be eligible to submit an application with that passport.

IV. Applying for Visitor Record

Before you can upload your forms, you must answer questions provided in the online tool. The authorities will use your answers to create a personalized document checklist for you. Answer the first question, "What would you like to do in Canada?" with "Visit" and select "Canada" when asked, "What is your current country/territory of residence?". You need an account to apply online, which you can use to pay your fees, submit your application, and check your status. However, if you're unable to apply online due to a disability or problems with the application, you can still opt for a paper application.

V. Payment Options

You'll need to have an accepted method of payment when applying for a visitor record in Canada. Credit and prepaid cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, and UnionPay, are accepted. If you use a prepaid credit card, keep it for at least 18 months after you pay to make refunds easier. Additionally, Canadian bank Interac Online is also accepted, along with Visa Debit cards. Consequently, it's unnecessary for the card to be in your name, even though the cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt.

Conclusion: You now have comprehensive information on extending your stay in Canada. Remember to schedule your biometric collection appointment, apply online for faster processing, read the instruction guide carefully, include a letter of explanation if your passport is expired, and have a valid payment method. Good luck with your application!