COW – Consequences of Expired Visas – May 28, 2026
A temporary resident visa allows someone to travel to Canada. It does not determine how long they can stay.
Someone can have an expired visa and still have legal status in Canada.
What matters is whether someone still has valid immigration status.
For students and workers, status is tied to their permit that authorizes them to study or work in Canada.
For visitors, status is tied to the period authorized when they enter Canada, and is usually up to six months, unless the border services officer authorizes a stay for less or more time, or they apply for an extension.
Consequences of expired status (overstays)
Temporary residents must leave Canada when their authorized stay ends, unless they apply to extend or restore their status.
People who overstay or work or study without authorization are inadmissible under Canada's immigration laws.
Consequences can include removal from Canada and restrictions on returning in the future.
Non-compliance can also affect future immigration applications, including permanent residence.
Canada Border Services Agency is responsible for immigration enforcement, including investigations, detentions, and removals.
