A Visitor Record is a status document (similar to a work permit or study permit), but it does not allow you to partake in volunteering, working or studying. A Fleming College student may have to apply for a Visitor Record if they want to remain in Canada without studying.
*A Visitor Record is not a Visitor Visa.
A Visitor Record is a status document which allows you to visit Canada but it does not allow you to work or study. A Visitor Visa (formally named a “Temporary Resident Visa”) is an entry document that allows visa required citizens to cross the border by land, sea or plane and enter Canada.
What is the difference between a visitor visa and a visitor record?: https://www.ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1452&top=16
If you are in Canada under a study permit but have not studied for OVER 150 days you must:
- Apply for a Visitor Record; or
- Leave Canada
Study permits: Assessing compliance with study permit conditions
Visitor Record Application Guide:
Visitor Record Applications:
- Form: IMM 5708 Application Form: Application to Change Conditions, Extend my stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor
- Letter of Explanation: A letter explaining who you are and why you are applying for a Visitor Record
- Status document: A copy of your current or most recent Study Permit
- Proof of Funds: Provide proof of how will you support yourself in Canada if you are not authorized to work
- Fees: Pay the application fee of $100.00
How to Apply Online:
- Create a Government of Canada account: Sign in to your IRCC account – Canada.ca – log in and “Start an application”
- Complete the Eligibility Questionnaire which will lead to an application center and an application form (IMM5708) to complete.
- Upload the Required Documents (see the application guide for more details below): Guide 5551 – Applying to Change Conditions or Extend Your Stay in Canada – online application – Canada.ca
- Pay the application fee of $100.00
- Submit
Note: You are required to “submit” your application. Uploading the files to your GCKey account does not mean you submitted them.
Sometimes IRCC will request additional documentation from you. Please monitor your email and GCKey account respecting the deadline outlined in their communication for submission of additional documentation if needed.
Check processing times: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html
FAQ:
Question: My application won’t be processed until after I return to classes. Should I still apply for a Visitor Record?
Answer: The visitor record processing time is quite lengthy (almost one calendar year). It is important to still apply for the visitor record if you have a long gap away from studying because:
a) You are required to do so to physically stay in Canada if you are not going to meet your study permit conditions;
b) The submission confirmation letter of your Visitor Record application is proof that you are trying to maintain your status while physically in Canada (even though you might return to your studies before the application is approved); and
c) Once you have submitted a Visitor Record Application, you may be able to continue to use your original study permit when you return to school.
If you are currently out of school, or have plans to be out of school for more than 150 days, please book a meeting with an International Student Advisor to discuss the Visitor Record process and how gaps in your studies will affect your immigration status and future applications. See https://department.flemingcollege.ca/iss/same-day-advising-hours/
The Government of Canada can change rules, regulations, policies, and eligibility requirements at any time. The contents of this webpage were based on policies and legislation of the drafting date. Students are responsible for ensuring that they are in compliance with all Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regulations at all times during their studies and while in Canada. Fleming College staff are not authorized to provide advice or guidance on immigration-related matters, other than our International Student Advisors. Applicants and students should consult the IRCC website at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada.html or contact the IRCC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 to confirm or clarify immigration-related information and requirements.