How long can I go to Canada for a visit?
#1
Forum Regular
Thread Starter
Joined: Nov 2017
Location: United Kingdom
Posts: 39
How long can I go to Canada for a visit?
I’ve tried to get all visas/permits possible and failed. This is all because I wanted to be able to have a job in Canada to support me. But now I just want to go (I’ve got somewhere to live with my god parents who are permanent residents) and stay there as long as I can, BUT I’m not getting a job. The question is, how long can I stay as a visitor? Is there a limit? Can the limit be extended, will they allow it?
Thank you, Callum.
Thank you, Callum.
#2
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Nov 2011
Location: Somewhere between Vancouver & St Johns
Posts: 19,847
Re: How long can I go to Canada for a visit?
I’ve tried to get all visas/permits possible and failed. This is all because I wanted to be able to have a job in Canada to support me. But now I just want to go (I’ve got somewhere to live with my god parents who are permanent residents) and stay there as long as I can, BUT I’m not getting a job. The question is, how long can I stay as a visitor? Is there a limit? Can the limit be extended, will they allow it?
Thank you, Callum.
Thank you, Callum.
Normally its for up to 6 months and can be longer and can be extended.
Reasons for visiting?
#3
Forum Regular
Thread Starter
Joined: Nov 2017
Location: United Kingdom
Posts: 39
Re: How long can I go to Canada for a visit?
I would like to stay for as long as possible to get the feel of living in Canada (far away from home I guess) to see if it’s for me. That’s the ultimate goal/reason. More than 6 months for definite! Other reasons - to see more of British Columbia where I will be staying, adding to my last 2 week visit! Just a change to life to make it more fulfilled!
Last edited by calsholty; Apr 8th 2018 at 9:21 pm. Reason: I didn’t answer the replyers question fully
#4
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Nov 2011
Location: Somewhere between Vancouver & St Johns
Posts: 19,847
Re: How long can I go to Canada for a visit?
Thank you for replying!
I would like to stay for as long as possible to get the feel of living in Canada (far away from home I guess) to see if it’s for me. That’s the ultimate goal/reason. More than 6 months for definite! Other reasons - to see more of British Columbia where I will be staying, adding to my last 2 week visit! Just a change to life to make it more fulfilled!
I would like to stay for as long as possible to get the feel of living in Canada (far away from home I guess) to see if it’s for me. That’s the ultimate goal/reason. More than 6 months for definite! Other reasons - to see more of British Columbia where I will be staying, adding to my last 2 week visit! Just a change to life to make it more fulfilled!
Essentially you have to convince a CBSA officer that you won't work or overstay your visit and are a bona fide visitor.
The reasons given in just 2 posts would make me as a CBSA officer somewhat suspicious of your intentions and would likely restrict the amount of time you could stay.
How old are you? Do you have a job? Do you have an employer that would allow you 6 months even plus off work?
IMHO you need to temper your expectations about staying for a prolonged time just to see if you like Canada and if its for you.
#5
Forum Regular
Thread Starter
Joined: Nov 2017
Location: United Kingdom
Posts: 39
Re: How long can I go to Canada for a visit?
But if you are ineligible to work how will you support yourself?
Essentially you have to convince a CBSA officer that you won't work or overstay your visit and are a bona fide visitor.
The reasons given in just 2 posts would make me as a CBSA officer somewhat suspicious of your intentions and would likely restrict the amount of time you could stay.
How old are you? Do you have a job? Do you have an employer that would allow you 6 months even plus off work?
IMHO you need to temper your expectations about staying for a prolonged time just to see if you like Canada and if its for you.
Essentially you have to convince a CBSA officer that you won't work or overstay your visit and are a bona fide visitor.
The reasons given in just 2 posts would make me as a CBSA officer somewhat suspicious of your intentions and would likely restrict the amount of time you could stay.
How old are you? Do you have a job? Do you have an employer that would allow you 6 months even plus off work?
IMHO you need to temper your expectations about staying for a prolonged time just to see if you like Canada and if its for you.
Thank you, Callum.
#7
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Nov 2011
Location: Somewhere between Vancouver & St Johns
Posts: 19,847
Re: How long can I go to Canada for a visit?
I believe you have applied for the IEC programme. If not selected for this year there is always next year and if selected you would get a 2 year open work permit.
If not on the IEC and just visiting then there are no guarantees on how long of a stay you will get.
If not on the IEC and just visiting then there are no guarantees on how long of a stay you will get.
#8
Re: How long can I go to Canada for a visit?
Assuming that by 'more than enough' you mean £10k or so, then you may be granted 6 months. But note that it's up to six months, and if you don't have any ties to the UK (which it sounds like you won't as you will have quit your job) then be prepared to be given less, as you may not look like a genuine visitor. But if you go with an itinerary, return ticket, proof of funds to support yourself and not need to work, then you might be ok. Take proof of whatever ties you can as well, do you rent a property? If so, take proof of that. Unfortunately, there's no way of knowing in advance (although in case you're not aware, do notes that FL is a CBSA officer, so if he says your situation may "likely restrict the amount of time you could stay" do listen to him!).
Got to say, I think you'd be better off just being patient and waiting for the IEC, even if you don't get it this year (admittedly, not likely), then if you apply as soon as next year's program opens you'll be in with a really good chance. Personally I'd wait, work hard and save up, and then go properly rather risk being refused entry and having that on your record.
Got to say, I think you'd be better off just being patient and waiting for the IEC, even if you don't get it this year (admittedly, not likely), then if you apply as soon as next year's program opens you'll be in with a really good chance. Personally I'd wait, work hard and save up, and then go properly rather risk being refused entry and having that on your record.