When to apply for visitor extension

[Stevin]

My American boyfriend will be arriving in Canada in August as a visitor. How soon can we apply for a visitor visa extension. I already know that I would like him to remain longer that the 6 month allowable time. How long of an extension is typically granted??

Thank you in advance for any information.

 

[scylla]

You should apply towards the end of his allowable visit - make sure CIC receives the extension application before his current visit expires. Extensions are typically six months - but could be less.

 

[Stevin]

You should apply towards the end of his allowable visit - make sure CIC receives the extension application before his current visit expires. Extensions are typically six months - but could be less.

As always Scylla, your advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
My partner arrives here in early Aug, we plan on applying for an extension early Jan/16, if it is only extended for 6 more months (until Aug 2016) would we have to apply for another extension or would we be able to just go ahead and apply for 'common-law' sponsorship. (We will have all the proper documentation).

Thank you