How long can visitor stay? 6 months per calendar year? Or 6 months from first date of entry?

[mcybr]

Hi all!

I got a visitor visa for my mom last year. She arrived June 2021, and stayed 2 months, leaving in August 2021. She came back to Canada in December 2021. I know visitors can stay for 6 months in one year, but was wondering when the 6 months restart? Does it restart in January 2022 (aka she can now stay until June 2022)? Or does it restart in June 2022 (meaning she can only stay till April 2022, which would make it 6 months total since her first arrival in June 2021)?

Also, I'd like to apply for an extension for her to allow her to stay here longer, but was wondering whether this extension would allow her to leave briefly (to visit the US for instance) and come back to Canada? Or if it's one entry only?

Thanks!

 

[ypaul]

I believe it is at most 6 months continuously after entering Canada, after that person has to leave Canada but can come back anytime soon. Check if when she entered Canada, did any immigration officer enter an exit date by when she should leave.

I am not an expert , wait for other people's reply too.

 

[YVR123]

Unless an earlier exit date is stamped in her passport, It's 6 months after the day of entery into Canada.

There is no "reset" on the new year day.

File and extension for her visitor status before the 6 months from her entry day (in her case December 2021). Once she filed an extension, she will have implied status as a visitor until the decision is made.