Nothing checked off yet

First visit? Here's how the map works.

Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Find out what you actually need

Visitors and eTAWhile you're hereStep 5 of 5

BlockedUsually 6 months · RequiredYou are here

5. Know the date you have to leave by

Most visitors may stay up to six months.

Waiting on: Arrive: the border officer decides

Open this step

The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 5 of 5 · RequiredClose

Know the date you have to leave by

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepVisitor visa: how long you can staycanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

Most visitors may stay up to six months. The officer can grant more or less, and writes the date you must leave by in your passport or on a visitor record. With no stamp at all, six months runs from the day you entered, or until your passport or biometrics expire, whichever comes first.

Why it's required: Overstaying costs you your status and can affect future applications. The no-stamp rule catches people out: no stamp doesn't mean no deadline.

Usual length6 monthsThe officer may allow more or less, and will write the date down.

No stamp?Still 6 monthsCounted from your entry date. You can ask an officer for a stamp.

Super visa5 yearsFor parents and grandparents entering after 22 June 2023.

Documents you'll need

The stamp in your passport, or your visitor record
The date you entered Canada, if there is no stamp

Before this step

BlockedArrive: the border officer decides

Finishing this unlocks: Extend your stay, if you need to