COW – Consequences of Expired Visas – May 28, 2026
- A temporary resident visa allows someone to travel to Canada. It does not determine how long they can stay.
- Someone can have an expired visa and still have legal status in Canada.
- What matters is whether someone still has valid immigration status.
- For students and workers, status is tied to their permit that authorizes them to study or work in Canada.
- For visitors, status is tied to the period authorized when they enter Canada, and is usually up to six months, unless the border services officer authorizes a stay for less or more time, or they apply for an extension.
Consequences of expired status (overstays)
- Temporary residents must leave Canada when their authorized stay ends, unless they apply to extend or restore their status.
- People who overstay or work or study without authorization are inadmissible under Canada's immigration laws.
- Consequences can include removal from Canada and restrictions on returning in the future.
- Non-compliance can also affect future immigration applications, including permanent residence.
- Canada Border Services Agency is responsible for immigration enforcement, including investigations, detentions, and removals.