A visitor visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is a document that allows foreign nationals to travel to and enter Canada. Unless you are from a country that is exempt from visa requirements, you will need a visitor visa to enter Canada, regardless of whether you are coming as a student, temporary worker, or simply visiting.
Canadian visitor visas come in two forms: single entry and multiple entry. A single-entry visa allows a foreign national to enter Canada only once, while a multiple-entry visa allows the holder to enter and leave Canada as many times as they wish while the visa is valid. The default option is a multiple-entry visa, which is issued unless specific circumstances call for a single-entry visa.
Multiple entry visitor visas grant the holder the ability to travel to Canada for up to six months at a time, as many times as desired, as long as the visa is still valid. These visas can be valid for up to 10 years, but the exact validity period is determined by the visa officer issuing it. If you hold other status documents such as a study permit or work permit and are not visa-exempt, you will automatically be issued a visitor visa that allows you to enter Canada to receive your permit. This is typically a multiple entry visa. If you choose to leave Canada temporarily during your studies or temporary work, you will not need to apply for a new visitor visa to re-enter Canada as long as your permit and visa are still valid.
A Visitor Visa: Who Requires One?
If you are not a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or from a visa-exempt country, you will need a visitor visa to enter Canada. This applies to travelers who are coming as students, temporary workers, or simply visiting. Canadian permanent residents are not eligible to apply for a visitor visa, even if their permanent resident card has expired. Instead of applying for a visitor visa, Canadian permanent residents must apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to enter Canada.
Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, are not permitted to apply for a visitor visa and must travel with a valid Canadian passport. Business travelers transiting through or visiting Canada may require a business visitor visa.”
Visa-Exempt Countries
Individuals who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents and are from visa-exempt countries do not need a visitor visa to enter Canada. These countries have agreements with Canada that allow their citizens to visit Canada for up to six months without a visa. However, if these foreign nationals wish to enter Canada by air, they will need to have a valid electronic travel authorization (eTA). If they enter by land or sea, only a valid passport from a visa-exempt country is required.
Citizens of the United States are an exception to this restriction and may enter Canada with a valid U.S.. passport for stays of up to six months without a visitor visa or eTA. U.S. permanent residents, also known as Green Card holders, are also visa-exempt regardless of their citizenship, but they do need an eTA if they are flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport. They must also present a valid Green Card and passport when entering Canada.
Application procedures for a visiting visa to Canada
Obtaining a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), also known as a visitor visa, to enter Canada is generally a simple procedure for many applicants. However, it is crucial to be aware of the necessary criteria and to follow the application process meticulously to guarantee a smooth and successful application. Here are some helpful tips on how to easily secure a visitor visa to Canada:
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Many visitors from visa-exempt countries can apply for an eTA, which is an electronic document that allows them to travel to Canada by air. The eTA is linked to the passport and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Visa application centers: Many countries have visa application centers where applicants can submit their visa applications and supporting documents. These centers provide assistance with the application process and can help ensure that all required documents are submitted.
Online application: The Government of Canada’s website allows visitors to apply for a visitor visa online. The website offers comprehensive instructions on how to complete the application form and what paperwork is needed.
Gather the required documents: The most important document for a visitor visa application is a valid passport. It is also important to gather financial documents such as bank statements or pay stubs to demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada.
Provide a detailed itinerary: Providing a detailed itinerary of your trip can help demonstrate that you have a genuine reason for traveling to Canada and that you have a plan for your time there.
Proof of ties to your home country: In order to be approved for a visitor visa, you must demonstrate that you have ties to your home country that will ensure your return after your visit. Examples of ties include a job, a family, or a home.
Proof of a round-trip ticket: To be approved for a visitor visa, you must also demonstrate that you have a round-trip ticket, or that you have enough money to buy one.
By following these steps and providing the necessary documentation, you can increase your chances of having a successful visitor visa application to Canada. Keep in mind that the visa application process may vary depending on the country of origin and individual circumstances, it’s always recommended to check the Government of Canada’s website for the most up-to-date information and guidance.
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