Visitor visa - Planned 12 month stay

[andyshephard]

Hi all,

I was recently rejected from the IEC program as I entered details incorrectly on the application site.
As a UK national, I know that I am able to obtain a visitor visa for Canada for up to 6 months (with the option of extension - I hope).

The thing is, I have flights booked, but it is only a 2 month period before the return journey.
UK -> Canada = 30th June.
Canada -> UK = 31st August.

How I can ensure that I obtain a 6-month visitor visa? Would I have to purchase another flight with a further return flight date, or could I just explain that my flight date can be extended to the immigration officer? I have sufficient funds to last me 12 months and I will be sure to arrange health insurance before-hand also. Just wondering if those flight dates could be a potential blocker.

Any feedback on this?

Thanks,
Andy.

 

[scylla]

There is no way to guarantee that you will be granted a six month visit.

I would leave the flights as is and hope you are given the six month default visit length. I would not attempt to explain to the officer that the ticket can be extended and you might stay longer. This may make the officer suspect that you are not a genuine visitor but instead have plans to remain in Canada long term and possibly work without authorization.

If you are only granted a two month visit based on your return flight, then I would apply for an extension once you are in Canada and close to the end of your authorized visit.

 

[andyshephard]

And if I were to be granted the six month visit, am I able to exit Canada (to visit family in the UK, go on holiday to US etc.) and come in again no problem? For example, as a visa-exempt citizen, would I just permanently be on a single-entry sort of system, or would it be more of a multiple-entry style?

 

[scylla]

No - that's not how it works. The six month visit is generally only good as long as you remain in Canada. During that six month visit, you can visit the US and then re-enter Canada provided to return prior to the end of your visit. However if you fly home to the UK (or go anywhere other than the US), then when you return to Canada, you will be entering as a visitor from scratch and will be assessed by immigration just as you were the first time.

 

[andyshephard]

Ah okay, understood.
Many thanks for the info, much appreciated!