Apply to extend your stay

Canada Post is currently in labour negotiations. Failed negotiations could lead to delays in:

  • receiving applications mailed within or to Canada
  • sending mail to you

If you’re planning on traveling to Canada or submitting an application, (including for a passport or other travel document) apply early.

Visit Canada Post for more information before sending any application by mail. We’ll keep you updated as we learn more.

In Canada applicants

You are temporarily exempt from giving biometrics for your extension application until 2019. This is when biometrics collection points will be established in Canada.

Apply online

Save time and get case updates online!

  • No courier fees or mail delivery time – we get your application instantly.
  • Avoid processing delays. Incomplete applications are returned to you. Applying online helps ensure your application is complete before you submit it.
  • If we need to ask for more documents, you can quickly submit them online.
  • Get updates on the status of your application directly in your online account.

Ready to get started?

To apply online, you need a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents, and a valid credit or debit card.

Credit cards and prepaid cards

We accept credit cards and prepaid cards from:

  • Visa®
  • MasterCard®
  • American Express®
  • JCB®
  • UnionPay® (for online applications only; debit cards not accepted)

If you use a prepaid credit card, keep it for at least 18 months after you pay to make refunds easier. Find more on prepaid cards.

We also accept all Visa Debit cards.

The card you use doesn't have to be in your name. The cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt but it does not need to match your application.

Debit cards

It must:

  • be from a Canadian bank using INTERAC® Online, and
  • be registered for online banking through your bank’s website.

We also accept all Debit MasterCard® and Visa® Debit cards. If your card has the Visa Debit logo on it, alone or with the INTERAC® Online logo, select Visa Debit as your payment method.

The card you use does not have to be in your name. The cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt but it does not need to match your application.

Apply on paper

Please follow steps 2 to 4 below.

1. Get the application package

The package includes the application guide and all the forms you need to fill out. Download the application package.

Read the guide carefully before you complete the application form. The fee for processing your form is not refundable, so make sure you are eligible to extend your stay before you apply.

The application form contains instructions. Read those instructions, and be sure to provide the required documents. If information or documents are missing, your application may be delayed.

Make sure you explain why you want to extend your visit in Canada. Collect all the documents you need. See the Application Guide for more information.

2. Pay your application fees

  • Check the fee list for the most up to date application fees.
  • The fee is payable in Canadian funds only.
  • Learn about the payment methods.

3. Submit your application

Submit your completed application to the address given in the application package. Make sure you include the fee receipt and all the necessary documents.

Processing times

You can find information on how long it will take to process your application.

If you submitted your application to an office outside Canada, please note that the Call Centre does not have information about your application.

If it has been longer than the time shown since you applied, you may contact us by using this Web form.

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