Understanding the Visitor Visa for Canada

A Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is an official document issued by a Canadian visa office and stamped in your passport to confirm your eligibility for temporary entry to Canada, whether it's for a visit, study, or work.

Crucial Details About Visitor Visas in Canada

Canada warmly welcomes millions of visitors annually, with over 35 million individuals exploring the country's diverse opportunities, including visits to family and friends. If your plans include temporary visits to Canada, such as for vacations, family reunions, or business trips, you may require a Temporary Resident Visa, unless you come from a "visa-exempt" country, such as the USA or Australia.

A Temporary Resident Visa is commonly referred to as a TRV. Typically, Form IMM 5257 is the application used for a TRV, which is used to seek temporary entry to Canada for purposes like tourism, family visits, or business.

Essential Documents for TRV Application

• Proof of ties to your home country
• Proof of adequate funds for your stay
• Valid identification (e.g., passport)
• An invitation letter from a Canadian host, if applicable
• Evidence of your intention for a temporary stay in Canada

Note: Additional documents may be necessary. It's important to obtain a TRV before leaving your home country; it cannot be acquired upon arrival in Canada.

Returning to Canada Before TRV Expiry

Visitor visas come with different features. Single-entry visas permit a single entry to Canada. If you leave Canada and wish to return, you must apply for another visa unless you are traveling to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon. Multiple-entry visas allow for multiple entries during their validity.

Extending Visitor Status in Canada

If you are in Canada on a visitor visa and wish to extend your stay, you can apply for visitor status at a Canadian immigration office before your current status expires. Upon your initial arrival as a visitor, you typically receive a six-month visitor status. If you are awaiting a renewal decision, you hold implied status. In the event of a refusal, there may be an option for restoration of status within 90 days of the refusal.

Processing Time for TRV

The processing time for TRV applications varies, and no guarantees can be made. To avoid disappointment, it is recommended to apply at least 2 months before your planned departure. Seeking professional immigration assistance can expedite the process. Factors influencing processing time include:

• Incomplete applications
• Required medical exams
• Background or security checks
• Criminal record checks
• Interviews
• Document verification

Extending a Canadian Visitor Visa

If you are in Canada and wish to stay longer than your visa's expiration date, you can apply for an extension using Form IMM 5708. An approved extension results in a visitor record:

• Specifies the permitted duration of your stay
• Includes an expiry date

Note: A visitor record does not guarantee re-entry; you will need a valid entry document.

Understanding Form IMM 5708

Form IMM 5708 is used by temporary residents to modify certain conditions of their residency. This form can be repeatedly used to extend a temporary resident permit as long as your stay remains temporary. Please note that this form does not affect student or work status in Canada; separate applications are required for those extensions.

Requirements for Extending a Canada Visitor Visa

• Must currently be in Canada
• Hold a valid passport for the duration of your stay
• Pay the associated fee for Form IMM 5708
• Ensure there are no conflicts with other permits (e.g., study or work) with your visitor permit

Other Important Information About Temporary Resident Visas: To qualify for a Temporary Resident Visa, you must demonstrate compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and Regulations, and show that your stay in Canada is temporary.

Additional Requirements

• Convince authorities that you will leave Canada
• Demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay and return
• Not have the intention to work or study (unless authorized)
• No criminal record
• No risk to Canadian security
• Good health (a medical exam may be required)

Who Requires a Canada Temporary Work Visa?

Anyone planning to work and earn a salary in Canada must obtain a Temporary Work Visa or Work Permit. A work permit is essential if:

• Your intention is to work in Canada with compensation
• Your income is derived from a registered Canadian business
• Your primary place of work is in Canada
• Your earnings are deposited in a Canadian bank account
If your work is based outside Canada, and your visit to Canada is short-term for work purposes, a work permit may not be necessary.

The Significance of Professional Immigration Assistance

While applying for a TRV might appear straightforward, many individuals risk refusal by attempting the process independently. Mistakes in form completion are a common reason for denials. Ensure that your dream of visiting Canada isn't hampered by minor errors. Professional immigration assistance can significantly increase your chances of approval.

Why Choose Us for TRV Applications

Many clients find relief from paperwork and government processes by entrusting their applications to our experienced immigration experts. We have assisted countless individuals in visiting Canada hassle-free. While no guarantees can be made, our extensive experience can enhance your chances of success