Is a visitor record the same as a visa, and does it let me re-enter Canada?

A visitor record is a document that changes or extends the conditions of your stay inside Canada, such as how long you can remain. It is not an entry document and does not by itself authorise re-entry.

If you leave Canada, you need a valid entry document, such as a visitor visa or an eTA, to return. A visitor record alone does not guarantee re-entry, so confirm you hold the right entry document before travelling.