IMM 5708 - Visitor Status Restoration - Date fields for Current Country of Residence and Intended Stay

[lulumodola3]

Hi everyone
I am filling out the IMM 5708 form to restore my status as a visitor in Canada. My work permit expired and my extension was refused (due passport expiration date, they've already extended so they couldn't extend it more ) making me out of status as of June 17, 2026. I have not worked since that date and I am applying for restoration within the 90-day window.

I have two questions about dates on the form:

1. For the Current Country of Residence section, where it asks for my status and the From-To dates — I have selected 'Other' with the explanation 'Restoration of status.' What dates should I put in the From-To fields? Should the 'To' date be my 90-day deadline (September 15, 2026), today's date, or something else?
2. For the Intended Duration of Stay section, I am requesting approximately one year as a visitor while I study French, take a language exam, and await an invitation through Express Entry. Should the 'From' date be June 17 (when I became out of status) or today's date (when I am submitting the application)? And is requesting one year reasonable for this situation? Or should I add less?

No judgement, please. It's been a pretty hard period and I'm just looking to have this done in the best way possible. I appreciate you guys help already

 

[Ayomide101]

Sorry you're going through this. Since you're applying for restoration within the 90-day period and you've stopped working since losing your status, you're taking the right approach.

For the "Current Country of Residence" section, selecting "Other" and writing "Restoration of status" is appropriate. I would use the date you became out of status (June 17, 2026) as the "From" date. For the "To" date, many applicants either leave it blank if the form allows or use the expected end date of the status they're requesting if required. I wouldn't use the 90-day restoration deadline, as that's simply the deadline to apply, not the end of your requested status.

For the "Intended Duration of Stay," I would use the date you're submitting the application as the "From" date since that's when you're requesting visitor status to begin. Requesting up to one year isn't unreasonable, especially if you explain in your letter that you intend to study French, prepare for your language test, and await potential Express Entry invitations. Just remember that requesting one year doesn't mean IRCC will automatically grant it—they may approve a shorter period based on your circumstances.

I'd also include a clear letter of explanation describing why your work permit extension was refused, confirming that you stopped working immediately after losing status, and explaining your plans and how you'll support yourself financially during your stay. A well-written LOE can make it much easier for the officer to understand your situation.

Wishing you the best with your restoration application. Hopefully everything works out for you.