Visitor Visa Expired in Canada? How to Apply for Restoration and Avoid Deportation

If your visitor visa or visitor record has expired while you are still in Canada, you must act quickly. IRCC allows eligible individuals to apply for restoration of status, but the process is time-sensitive. Failure to restore your status can lead to loss of legal status, removal orders, and long-term immigration consequences.

This guide explains:

• • What happens if your status expires
    
  • Who is eligible for restoration
    
  • Step-by-step instructions to apply
    
  • Government fees
    
  • Tips to improve your application
    
  • What to do if you are refused
    

What Happens When Your Visitor Status Expires

When your visitor visa or record expires, you no longer have legal immigration status in Canada. Staying beyond the expiry date may result in:

• • A removal order
    
  • Difficulty applying for future visas or permits
    
  • Ineligibility for permanent residency or work permits
    

If your overstay is less than 90 days, you can apply for restoration. If more than 90 days have passed, you must leave Canada and apply for a new visa from abroad.

What Is Restoration of Status?

Restoration of status is a one-time opportunity provided by IRCC for individuals who have lost their temporary resident status to regain legal stay in Canada. You may apply if:

• • Your status expired less than 90 days ago
    
  • You did not violate the conditions of your visa (such as working without authorization)
    
  • You continue to meet the eligibility requirements of your original status
    
  • You pay the full restoration fee
    

You are not guaranteed approval. IRCC assesses each case individually.

Who Is Eligible to Restore Visitor Status

You may apply to restore your visitor status if:

• • You held valid visitor status that expired less than 90 days ago
    
  • You respected the terms of your stay
    
  • You have not worked or studied without authorization
    
  • You can demonstrate you remain a genuine visitor with temporary intent
    

This does not apply to those who held Temporary Resident Permits or violated other immigration laws.

How to Apply for Restoration in Canada

1. Gather Your Documents

You will need:

• • Copy of your passport bio page and entry stamp
    
  • Expired visitor visa or record
    
  • Letter of explanation describing why your status expired and your reason for requesting restoration
    
  • Proof of financial support
    
  • Ties to your home country (job, family, property, etc.)
    

2. Complete the Application

Apply online through your IRCC secure account. Use the form IMM 5708 and choose the option to “Restore my status as a visitor.” Include your personal details, travel history, and reasons for your restoration request.

3. Pay the Required Fees

As of August 2025, the fees are:

• • Restoration of status fee: $239.75 CAD
    
  • Visitor visa processing fee (if needed): $100 CAD
    
  • Biometrics fee (if applicable): $85 CAD
    

Check your IRCC account for exact payment instructions and biometric requirements.

4. Submit Your Application

Upload all documents, pay your fees, and submit the application through your IRCC online account. Make sure everything is submitted before the end of the 90-day window.

While your application is in process, you are allowed to stay in Canada but cannot work or study unless IRCC grants you new authorization.

What Happens After Submission

IRCC will:

• • Review your application and documents
    
  • Determine if you meet eligibility for restoration
    
  • Issue a new visitor record if approved
    

If your application is refused, you must leave Canada immediately. Restoration is not appealable and can only be submitted once.

Helpful Tips to Avoid Refusal

• • Be honest and detailed in your letter of explanation
    
  • Explain any circumstances that led to the expiry of your visa
    
  • Demonstrate clear ties to your home country
    
  • Include updated bank statements and proof of accommodation
    
  • Submit well before the 90-day deadline
    

If You Missed the 90-Day Deadline

You cannot restore your status from inside Canada. You must:

• • Leave Canada voluntarily
    
  • Apply for a new visitor visa from your home country
    
  • Explain your previous overstay in your new application
    

Failure to leave may result in an enforcement action by CBSA or future bans.

What Is Maintained Status and Does It Apply?

Maintained status (formerly called implied status) applies only if you submitted an application to extend your stay before your visa expired. If you are on maintained status, you can remain in Canada under the conditions of your expired permit until a decision is made.

Restoration is different. It only applies if your status has already expired, and it must be applied for within 90 days of expiry.

Conclusion: Act Fast to Stay Legal in Canada

Losing your visitor status can be stressful, but restoration is possible if you meet the requirements and apply within the allowed timeframe.

To summarize:

• • You must apply within 90 days of expiry
    
  • You must not have worked or studied without permission
    
  • You must pay the correct fees and include all documents
    
  • You must remain in Canada while your application is processed
    
  • You cannot work or study unless you receive separate authorization
    

Need help with your restoration application?

At Can X Global, we assist clients with timely, accurate restoration applications, supporting documents, and legal strategy. Whether you’re facing expiry, missed a deadline, or unsure about your options, our team is here to guide you.