If you already have a visitor visa (also called a Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) for Canada, that's essentially your permission slip to enter Canada. Think of it as your ticket to get through the door. When you arrive at the Canadian border, the border officer will typically give you permission to stay for up to 6 months.

A visitor record, on the other hand, is something different. It's like asking for an extension on your house party after you're already inside! You would apply for a visitor record if:

·      You're already in Canada

·      Your authorized stay is about to expire

·      You want to stay longer than the date stamped in your passport when you entered.

So, If you're planning to stay within the time the border officer gave you when you arrived (usually up to 6 months), you don't need a visitor record. Your visitor visa and the stamp in your passport are all you need!
But if you're having such a great time in Canada that you want to extend your stay beyond what the border officer initially gave you, that's when you'd apply for a visitor record.

Key Points About Canadian Visitor Record

·      Apply early! Submit your visitor record application at least 30 days before your current stay expires.

·      While waiting for a decision, you have "implied status" if you applied before your authorized stay ended.

·      Visitor records aren't guaranteed – officials assess each application individually.

·      You'll need to prove you have enough funds to support yourself during the extended stay.

·      You must demonstrate ties to your home country and your intention to leave Canada.

·      Multiple extension requests may raise concerns with immigration officials.

·      A visitor record doesn't change the temporary nature of your visit – it's not a path to permanent residence.

 

For any help with your application reach out to us @ www.tmsimmigration.com

 

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