upon arriving in canada, how many months can i stay?

Answer 1

When I arrived in Canada on the train at Niagara. I was given an entry visa for 90 days. I am a UK citizen and perhaps different countries have different limits.

Answer 2

It depends on how (or more accurately why) you're entering the country.

Tourist visas (which mean you're here to see the sights, spend money, but not work or study) are usually the shortest, not to exceed 3 months.
Student visas (which mean you can study, but not work) are typically for the duration of one year's study, not to exceed twelve months.
Working visas have a much wider range - anywhere from days to a calendar year. Remember that most working visas do not allow you to study (or your dependents to work or study, for that matter).

The issuance of the visa is at the discretion of the border authority/customs agent who handles your case. They set the duration according to what they know of the situation - and can outright refuse you entry on a number of grounds.

Answer 3

You are allowed to stay in Canada, without a visa, for three months. If you want to stay longer, you'll need a visitor's visa which allows you to stay for up to six months. The draw back is, you must apply for the visa before you travel.