What is the best response to the reason why I'd like my visitor's visa extended?

[Jinny11]

Hi all,
I'm an American who came to Canada mid-April, left for a week in August, returned to Canada then went back to the US from the beginning of September until a few days ago. I am now back in Canada and am wondering what the time limit is for me to stay here? Some say every visit is a NEW visit, therefore 6 months from the last entry, but I'm wondering if it's actually 6 months altogether, regardless of when I entered. Please clarify as I would need to apply for an extension of my visa soon if the latter is the case.

Also, what would be the best responseto why I'm requesting an extension? I'm here with my Canadian girlfriend who is working and going to school full-time. Me being here makes things a little less stressful and more bearable, as she has no help with childcare. I will also apply for Permanent Residency soon, but not within the time that my visitor status will require me to leave. I've heard that stating that I'm just here to be with my girlfriend or that we are planning to get married, won't grant me an extension. Anyone with experience with this??

Thanks!

 

[scylla]

Unless you were told otherwise and your passport stamped accordingly, you were allowed in for six months when you returned a few days ago.

 

[amikety]

I've told CIC I was/am here with my boyfriend/husband. The first two VRs I stated we were saving for a wedding. Third VR I told them we were in processor filing the PR app as we got married (I "visited" for 15 months before getting married.) We included copies of my husbands paystubs each time. This last time, we also include items such as tracking number for my FBI clearance and offered to send copies of my medicals if needed.

You're American. Unless you're also secretly into crime (or you get a VO having a very bad day) they will let you stay.

 

[Jinny11]

Passport was never stamped on any entry. So I have six months from this last crossing in October even though I stayed here for 4 months in the summer? I want to make sure I'm legal because I was told 182 days is the max.