How Long Can I Stay In Canada As A Tourist? Can I Get An Extension?

[Seagulls_13]

Hi,

I am a British citizen with a Canadian fiancé. We are applying for my residency through spousal sponsorship (probably leaning towards an Outland application at the moment).

This year I have spent 2 months in Canada from mid-December to mid-February, followed by a week at the start of May and 3 weeks at the start of June (after trips to the USA and Peru), so about 3 months in total. I am in England now but I wish to return to Canada in September.

As a Brit I don't need an actual visa to enter as a tourist, but I believe that I'm allowed to be in Canada for 6 months out of the year. I'm not sure how they monitor that as I only ever get entry stamps (never with a date to leave by, so far) and have never been stamped on exit (although perhaps they scan the passport and it registers on their computer system?).

Does anyone know how long I can stay in Canada for or how long I have to leave for before I can come back and get another six months with the clock being re-set as it were? Also, how likely is it to be able to get a visa extension if I apply for one whilst in Canada as a tourist?
It seems from what I have read so far that a lot seems to be at the border officer's discretion and there may be no exact answer to this.

Thanks very much

 

[scylla]

Correct - there is no exact answer. It's entirely at the officer's discretion.

You most likely won't have any trouble re-entering Canada in September and being granted a six month visit since you are visa exempt. It's always a good idea to have proof with you that demonstrates you have strong ties to your home country (e.g. property owed, business, etc.) in case asked by the officer. You should also be able to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to pay for your visit.

Once you return to Canada you can certainly apply to extend your visit from within Canada.