Can a US Citizen Stay in Canada as a Visitor?
Generally, US citizens do not require a visitor visa to enter Canada. However, they do require a Visitor Visa if they plan to stay in Canada for 6 months or more. If your plans have changed to prolong your visit while in Canada, you will have to apply for a visitor visa. You need to have a valid explanation for your plan to stay in Canada. You must also establish that you have strong ties to your home country and have the intention of returning. This can be done by showing proof of a family back in US, property, or a business. While in Canada on a Visitor Visa, you cannot pursue unauthorised work.
Extension on Visitor Visa
If you have a valid reason to extend your stay in Canada while on a Visitor Visa, you can apply for extension. The application must be made before the expiry of the visitor visa. In case, the Visitor Visa has already expired, you will have an implied status in Canada while your application of extension is getting processed. If your get an approval, you can continue to stay in Canada on a new Visitor Visa. However, if you are denied, you will have to leave Canada within a stipulated period of time.
It is always better to make extension application via a professional law firm. Why take chances when you can get expert consultation to make things easy for you.
Can Visitor Visa be Extended Twice?
There is no defined limit to limit the extension on a Visitor Visa as per the Canadian Immigration Law. The only defining factor for the extension on a Visitor Visa is the reason for your extended stay. The immigration officers, in such case, focus on details that can establish that you do not plan to stay permanently in Canada. If the applicant can establish that they have intention of returning, they can get any number of extensions on their Visitor Visa. However, this depends on the case and the history of the applicants. Always consult a lawyer before making this kind of an application as it requires to be error-free and consistent t be convincing.
