Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV)
A Canada Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows individuals from eligible countries to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, business purposes, or other short-term stays. A visitor visa is generally issued for up to 6 months, but the length of stay can be decided by Canadian immigration officers upon your entry into Canada.
Key Features of the Canada Visitor Visa (TRV)
- Tourism: You can visit Canada to explore its natural beauty, cities, and cultural experiences.
- Visit Family and Friends: The visitor visa allows you to visit family or friends living in Canada.
- Business Purposes: Attend business meetings, conferences, or explore business opportunities in Canada.
- Multiple or Single Entry: You can apply for a multiple-entry visa (valid for up to 10 years) or a single-entry visa, depending on your travel plans.
- Temporary Stay: The visitor visa generally allows you to stay in Canada for up to 6 months per visit.
- Extend Your Stay: You may be able to extend your visitor visa while in Canada if you meet certain conditions.
Eligibility Requirements for the Canada Visitor Visa
To apply for a Canada Visitor Visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria to ensure you are a genuine visitor and intend to leave the country at the end of your stay.
- Valid Travel Document
You must hold a valid passport or travel document.
- Proof of Funds
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to cover your stay in Canada, including travel, accommodation, and living expenses.
- Ties to Your Home Country
You must prove that you have strong ties to your home country, such as a job, property, family, or financial commitments, to ensure you will return at the end of your stay.
- No Criminal Record
You must provide a police clearance certificate if requested, to prove you have no criminal background and pose no security threat to Canada.
- Good Health
You may be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure that you are in good health, especially if you are planning to stay in Canada for an extended period or come from a country with certain health risks.
- Intent to Leave Canada
You must demonstrate that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay and not intend to overstay your visa.
Required Documents for the Canada Visitor Visa (TRV)
When applying for a Canada Visitor Visa, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Valid Passport:
- A passport that is valid for the duration of your stay in Canada and beyond (preferably at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date).
- Proof of Financial Support:
- Bank statements, letters of employment, proof of property, or other documents showing that you can support yourself during your stay in Canada.
- Travel Itinerary:
- Details of your planned trip, such as flight bookings, accommodation reservations, and travel plans while in Canada.
- Invitation Letter (if applicable):
- If you are visiting family or friends, an invitation letter from your host in Canada, along with proof of their status (e.g., a Canadian passport or permanent resident card).
- Purpose of Travel:
- A letter explaining the purpose of your trip to Canada (e.g., tourism, family visit, business meeting).
- Ties to Your Home Country:
- Documents that show you have strong ties to your home country, such as employment contracts, property ownership, or family obligations.
- Medical Examination (if required):
- A medical exam report if you are required to undergo a medical examination based on your country of residence or the length of your stay.
- Police Clearance Certificate (if required):
- A police clearance certificate to prove you have no criminal history.
Application Process for the Canada Visitor Visa (TRV)
The process for a Canada Visitor Visa involves several clear steps:
Submit Your Application
Apply online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or submit a paper form. Online is faster.
Pay the Application Fee
The Visitor Visa fee is CAD 100. If biometrics are required, pay an extra CAD 85 for fingerprints and photo submission.
Provide Biometrics
Once you apply, you’ll get a request to give biometrics at a local visa center. Some applicants may be exempt.
Await Decision
After submitting your application and biometrics, IRCC will review your file. Processing takes 2 weeks to 2 months.
Receive Your Visa
If approved, you’ll get your Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) stamped in your passport. The port of entry officer decides your stay—usually up to 6 months.
Visa Types: Single-Entry vs. Multiple-Entry
Single-Entry Visa
This visa allows one-time entry to Canada. If you leave, you’ll need a new visa—unless you visit the U.S. or St. Pierre and Miquelon, where re-entry is allowed.
Multiple-Entry Visa
This visa lets you enter and exit Canada multiple times. It's valid for up to 10 years or until your passport expires. It's perfect for frequent travelers.
Extending Your Stay in Canada
If you wish to stay in Canada beyond the authorized period (typically up to 6 months), you must apply to extend your visitor visa before your current status expires. You can apply for an extension online, and if approved, you will be granted a Visitor Record, which allows you to stay longer.
Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents
For those looking to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada for an extended stay, Canada offers the Super Visa. The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit Canada for up to 2 years at a time without the need to renew their visa status.
Costs for the Canada Visitor Visa
The fees associated with the Canada Visitor Visa include:
- Visitor Visa Application Fee: CAD 100 per applicant.
- Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 (if required).
- Super Visa Application Fee: CAD 100 (with additional requirements like medical insurance).
How We Can Help
At A Square Migration Services, we provide expert assistance to ensure that your Canada Visitor Visa application is processed smoothly and efficiently. Our services include:
- Visa Application Support: We help you gather and submit all the necessary documents for a successful visitor visa application.
- Tailored Guidance: Whether you are traveling for tourism, family visits, or business purposes, we provide customized advice for your unique situation.
- Application Tracking: We track the progress of your application and provide updates on any additional requirements from IRCC.
Visit Canada and Explore Its Beauty
Canada offers stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique cultural experiences for visitors. At A Square Migration Services, we help you navigate the visitor visa process so you can enjoy everything Canada has to offer. Whether you’re visiting family, exploring Canada’s beauty, or attending business meetings, we are here to make your travel plans a reality.
Contact us today to start your Canada Visitor Visa application and begin your journey to Canada!