Visitor Visa Canada (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV)
Canadian Visitor Visas are issued to tourist or business visits to Canada where the foreign worker will not enter or participate in the Canadian labour market.
Travel, Visit, or Explore Business Opportunities in Canada
A Canadian Visitor Visa (also known as a Temporary Resident Visa – TRV) allows foreign nationals to come to Canada for a short stay, whether for tourism, visiting family and friends, or business purposes.
This visa does not allow you to work or study in Canada but gives you the opportunity to experience Canadian life for up to 6 months at a time.
Through this visa, millions of visitors enjoy Canada each year — from sightseeing in Toronto and Vancouver, to family reunions, to exploring business opportunities.
Why Apply for a Canadian Visitor Visa?
- Tourism and family visits → Travel across Canada’s breathtaking destinations or spend quality time with loved ones.
- Business trips → Meet Canadian companies, attend events, or explore opportunities without entering the labour market.
- Flexibility → Options for single-entry, multiple-entry, or eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) depending on your nationality.
- Pathway to longer stays → Possibility to extend your status or apply for a Super Visa (for parents and grandparents).
Types of Visitor Visas
Multiple-Entry Visa
- Valid up to 10 years (or 1 month before passport expiry).
- Allows unlimited entries to Canada, for stays of up to 6 months each visit.
- Most applicants are automatically considered for a multiple-entry visa.
Single-Entry Visa
- Grants entry to Canada only once.
- Usually issued in specific circumstances (e.g., official visits, special events, or country-specific restrictions).
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
- Required for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling by air.
- Simple online application, costs $7 CAD, valid up to 5 years (or until passport expiry).
Super Visa
- For parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
- Allows long-term stays in Canada — up to 5 years at a time.
- Requires proof of sufficient funds and private medical insurance.
TRV vs. eTA: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) | Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A visa sticker placed inside your passport | An electronic authorization linked to your passport |
| Who needs it | Citizens of countries not visa-exempt (e.g., India, China, Philippines, Nigeria) | Citizens of visa-exempt countries (e.g., UK, France, Germany, Japan, Australia) traveling by air |
| Application process | Apply online or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC); requires documents and sometimes biometrics | Apply online in a few minutes; no documents or biometrics needed in most cases |
| Cost | CAD $100 + biometrics fee (if required) | Around CAD $7 (depending on the currency) |
| Processing time | Weeks to months depending on country | Often approved within minutes, up to a few days |
| Validity | Up to 10 years or until 1 month before passport expiry | Up to 5 years or until passport expiry |
| Length of stay | Up to 6 months per visit | Up to 6 months per visit |
Who is Eligible for a Visitor Visa?
Who is Eligible for a Visitor Visa?
To qualify, you must:
- Have a valid passport.
- Prove you will leave Canada at the end of your visit.
- Show sufficient funds to cover your stay (amount depends on family size, length, and accommodation).
- Provide evidence of ties to your home country (job, family, property, financial assets).
- Have no criminal convictions and not be a security or health risk.
You may not be eligible if you:
- Have a criminal record or past immigration violations.
- Pose a medical risk or require excessive health/social services.
Required Documents
When applying, you generally need:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity).
- Completed Visitor Visa application form (IMM 5257).
- Recent passport-sized photos.
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, pay slips, host’s support letter).
- Proof of ties to home country (employment, family, property).
- Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family).
- Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservations, event registration).
Additional documents may be requested depending on your situation (minor children, representative forms, etc.).
Application Process
- Check Eligibility – Confirm if you need a TRV or an eTA.
- Gather Documents – Collect forms, financial proof, travel itinerary, and invitation letters.
- Apply Online or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) – Submit forms and pay fees.
Visitor visa: $100 CAD per person.
Biometrics (if required): $85 CAD per person. - Provide Biometrics – Fingerprints and digital photo (ages 14–79).
- Wait for Processing – Varies by country (from weeks to several months).
- Receive Decision – If approved, you’ll get your TRV stamped in your passport.
Important Note: Having a valid visa does not guarantee entry. Border Services Officers make the final decision at the port of entry.
Extending or Restoring Your Status
- Visa Extension → Apply at least 30 days before expiry. Fee: $100 CAD. Approved extensions issue a Visitor Record.
- Restoration of Status → If your visa has expired, you may apply within 90 days to restore your visitor status. Fee: $229 CAD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Up to 6 months per visit, unless otherwise stated by the officer at entry.
No. You need a valid work or study permit for that.
You must apply for an extension before your status expires.
There is no fixed amount, but you must prove you can cover your travel, stay, and return.
Yes, the Super Visa is specifically for parents and grandparents and allows longer stays (up to 5 years).
Yes, you can travel to Canada with your dependents, such as your spouse or minor children. However, each family member must submit their own visitor visa application and pay the applicable fees. If you are applying together, it is recommended to submit all applications at the same time (online or through a Visa Application Centre). This way, your file will be processed as a family unit, making it easier for immigration officers to review your case.
Take the Next Step
Book a Consultation – Get personalized guidance from our licensed immigration experts.
Free Eligibility Assessment – Find out if you qualify for a Visitor Visa today.