Visitor Visa

Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

Visitor Visa: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Canada

A Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It allows foreign nationals to travel to Canada for short-term stays such as tourism, family visits, or business purposes.

Who Needs a Visitor Visa?

You may require a Visitor Visa if you:

  • Are from a country that is not visa-exempt.
  • Plan to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or short-term courses (less than six months)..
  • Need to transit through Canada.

Types of Visitor Visas

  • Single-Entry Visa: Permits entry to Canada once. Becomes invalid after departure, except for specific travel to the US or St. Pierre and Miquelon.
  • Multiple-Entry Visa: Allows multiple entries to Canada for up to 10 years or until passport expiry.
  • Super Visa: Designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing extended visits for up to five years at a time. See more...
  • Transit Visa: Required for travelers passing through Canada on their way to another country and who will be in Canada for less than 48 hours.
  • Business Visitor Visa: For individuals coming to Canada for temporary business activities, such as meetings, training, or conferences, without entering the Canadian labor market. See more...

What a Visitor Visa Does NOT Allow

  • No Work Rights: Employment in Canada is not permitted.
  • Not for Permanent Residency: It’s for temporary stays only.
  • Stay Limitations: Generally limited to six months per visit.
Visitor Visa Application

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a visitor visa to Canada, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Good Health: You may be required to undergo a medical exam, depending on your country of residence.
  • No Criminal Record: You must not have any criminal or immigration-related convictions. A police certificate may be required.
  • Ties to Your Home Country: You must demonstrate strong ties to your home country—such as a job, property, family, or financial commitments—that will ensure your return.
  • Proof of Funds: You must show you have enough money to support yourself (and any accompanying family members) during your stay in Canada. The amount depends on the length of stay and whether you’ll stay with family, friends, or in a hotel.
  • Purpose of Visit: You must explain the reason for your visit and show you will leave Canada at the end of your stay.
  • Invitation Letter (if applicable): If you are visiting family or friends, an invitation letter from your host in Canada may be required.
  • No Intention to Work or Study: Visitors are not allowed to work or study in Canada unless authorized.

Required Documents

You will need the following to apply:

  • Valid Passport: Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay.
  • Application Forms (IMM 5257 & IMM 5645): Completed and signed forms required for the visa process.
  • Proof of Funds: Show you can cover travel and living expenses in Canada.
  • Letter of Explanation: Describe your travel purpose and plans in Canada.
  • Passport-Sized Photos: Recent photos that meet Canadian visa photo requirements.
  • Travel Itinerary: Include flight and hotel reservations, if available.
  • Proof of Ties to Home Country: Documents like job letters, property, or family ties to show you’ll return home.
  • Invitation Letter (if applicable): From a host in Canada with their details and relationship to you.
  • Medical Exam / Police Certificate (if required): Needed based on your country of residence or trip length.
  • Visa Fee Receipt: Proof of payment for the visa application.

Benefits and Considerations

There are several benefits of obtaining a Visa, but also some important considerations.

Benefits of a Visitor Visa

  • Cultural Experience: Explore Canada's landmarks and culture.
  • Family Reunions: Visit family and loved ones.
  • Business Opportunities: Attend conferences, trade shows, or meetings.
  • Travel Flexibility: Multiple-entry visas offer convenience for frequent visitors.

Important Notes

  • Overstaying your visa may lead to serious consequences, including removal or bans on future entry.
  • Decisions on entry are made at the port of entry by Canada Border Services officers.

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Additional Services We Offer

Application Assistance

  • Guidance on filling out forms and preparing required documents.
  • Online application submission support.

Specialized Visa Services

  • Super Visa applications for long-term visits.
  • Reapplications and visa extensions.

Pre- and Post-Arrival Support

  • Tips for smooth entry and immigration compliance.
  • Help with extending stays or resolving visa-related issues.

Why Choose Our Services?

  • Expert Guidance: Navigate complex processes with confidence.
  • Time-Saving: Minimize delays with professionally prepared applications.
  • Higher Approval Chances: Comprehensive support ensures your application meets IRCC standards.