🧾 Possible Scenario Recap

• The applicant may/may not previously on a study permit
• Obtained a work permit (likely a PGWP or employer-specific WP or SOWP)
• Work permit is expiring soon / next month
• They now want to apply for a Visitor Record to stay in Canada legally

🔍 Step 1: Understanding What a Visitor Record Is

A Visitor Record is not a visa — it’s a document issued by IRCC that:

• Extends or changes the conditions of stay in Canada; and
• Allows a person to remain in Canada as a visitor (without work or study authorization).

🕒 Step 2: When to Apply

According to IRCC policy and program delivery guidance:

• The applicant must apply before their work permit expires.
• Best practice: apply at least 30 days before expiry.
• Once the application is submitted, they will have maintained status (formerly “implied status”) under IRPR s.183(5) and can legally remain in Canada as a temporary resident until a decision is made.

⚠️ However, they cannot continue to work after the work permit expires, unless they have applied for another work permit that gives maintained work authorization.
A visitor record application does not authorize work.

✅ Step 3: Good (Acceptable) Reasons to Support a Visitor Record Application

To be approved, the applicant must satisfy IRCC that:

1. They will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay, and
2. They have legitimate reasons to remain temporarily as a visitor.

Here are examples of acceptable reasons:

1. Transition Period Between Permits

“I am applying for a visitor record to remain in Canada legally while exploring further study or work opportunities.”

This is common when:

• PGWP is expiring, and the person is preparing to apply for PR or another program.
• The applicant wants to stay with their spouse, family, or settle personal matters before leaving.

2. Waiting for Next Immigration Step

“I am waiting for the outcome of a PR application or a nomination under a PNP, and would like to remain in Canada lawfully as a visitor.”

If the applicant has a pending PR application (Express Entry, PNP, etc.), this is a legitimate ground.

3. Visiting Family or Tourism Purpose

“I would like to remain as a visitor to spend time with family/friends or visit Canada before departing.”

This is acceptable if they can show:

• Financial ability to support themselves without working, and
• A clear plan and timeline for leaving.

4. Winding Up Affairs or Travel Constraints

“I need additional time to arrange departure, sell belongings, or finalize logistics due to personal or travel-related reasons.”

This can also be valid if supported by evidence.

📑 Step 4: Supporting Documents

A well-prepared visitor record application should include:

• Letter of explanation clearly stating reasons for wanting to remain as visitor.
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, sponsor letter, etc.).
• Copy of current work permit and passport bio-data page.
• Proof of maintained status application (if applicable).
• Travel plan or intent to leave (return flight, proof of ties to home country, etc.).
• Evidence of next step (e.g., PR/PNP file number if pending).

 

For further reference, I strongly recommend to read the direct article from IRCC website and / or hire your preferred legal counsel to avoid any possible mistake.

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/extend-stay/eligibility.html

 

Disclaimer: The above writing is not intended to be a source of legal advice. Please seek legal advice and use your own good judgement before choosing to act on any information provided above. If you choose to rely on this article, you do so entirely at your own accountability.

If you find any information is untrue or misleading or think you deserve the credit for the write-up, please reach out to me at: mdsiddiqur.rahman@queensu.ca and I will adjust as per your request when you are right.