A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) in Canada, commonly known as a visitor visa, is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to enter Canada for temporary purposes such as tourism, visiting family, or business visits. The TRV is required for citizens of countries that do not have a visa exemption or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) agreement with Canada.
Key aspects of the Temporary Resident Visa include:
- Types of TRVs:
- Single Entry Visa: Allows the visa holder to enter Canada once. After leaving Canada, except for travel to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, a new visa is required to re-enter Canada.
- Multiple Entry Visa: Allows the visa holder to come and go from Canada for six months at a time, without having to reapply for a new visa, for up to 10 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Applicants must show that they intend to leave Canada at the end of their visit.
- They must have enough money to support themselves and any accompanying family members during their stay and for their return home.
- They should not have any criminal or immigration-related convictions.
- They must be in good health (a medical exam may be required).
- They must convince the immigration officer that they have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets, or family—that will take them back to their home country.
- Application Process:
- Application Submission: Can be done online or through a paper application submitted to a Visa Application Centre.
- Documents Required: Typically includes passport, photographs, proof of financial support, itinerary, and sometimes a letter of invitation from someone living in Canada.
- Fees: There are fees associated with the application, which vary depending on whether a single or multiple entry visa is requested.
- Duration and Validity:
- The duration of stay in Canada is typically up to six months, as determined by the border services officer at the point of entry. The visa itself may be valid for a longer period allowing for multiple entries.
The TRV does not permit foreign nationals to work or study during their stay in Canada—separate permits are required for these activities. It is primarily intended for those who wish to visit Canada temporarily for leisure, family visits, or business activities like attending conferences or meetings.