An overstay can affect future immigration benefits, but the impact depends on how long you overstayed and whether you accrued unlawful presence. Short overstays may not trigger formal bars, but they are still considered in future applications. Officers will look closely at whether you respected immigration laws overall and whether the overstay was intentional. Full disclosure is critical, as failing to mention the overstay can lead to misrepresentation findings. In some cases, waivers or alternative strategies may be available, but careful planning is necessary before reapplying.

Leaving voluntarily after an overstay is generally better than being removed, but it does not erase the violation. Future visa officers may question your intent more closely. The key is showing that you understand the mistake and have taken steps to comply with the law going forward. Depending on your immigration goals, legal advice can help determine whether waiting, applying from abroad, or pursuing waivers is the best option.