What is a Temporary Resident Visa? 

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), also referred to as a visitor visa, is an official document issued by a Canadian visa office that is placed in your passport to show that you have met the requirements for admission to Canada as a temporary resident (either as a visitor, a student, or a worker). While the word resident maybe confusing, this is just a visitor’s visa and not a right to stay indefinitely. This is the document that allows certain Visitors entry into Canada typically for tourism, visiting friends and family etc.   

Single vs. Multiple Entry 

A single entry visa will allow you to enter Canada once during the authorized time. If your temporary resident visa (TRV) has been approved for a three month period and you decide to leave one month into your stay in Canada, you will not be able to enter again using the same visa. 

A multiple entry visa provides you the opportunity to enter Canada as many times during the duration of your visa. Therefore, if you receive a temporary resident visa for two months, you are eligible to come and go from Canada during that time without having to make another application. 

From February 6, 2014, all visa applications are automatically considered for a multiple entry visa. Therefore, even if you apply for a single entry visa, you may qualify for a multiple entry. 

What are Biometrics? 

You may (and any other accompanying foreign visitors) be required to have fingerprints and photographs taken at a biometric service collection point. It is important to note that you cannot have your biometrics taken prior to submitting your application. Either: 

• Submit your application online or by mail and then visit a biometric service collection point only once you get a biometric instruction letter (BIL) 
• Submit your application in person and complete your biometric together at a visa application center. You can also give you Biometrics on a separate day with an appointment. 

Find out if you need to give biometrics. 

You need to book an appointment to give your biometrics at one of these official biometric collection service points. 

Note that you only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years. You don’t need to give your biometrics again until the 10-year period expires. Find out if your biometrics are still valid and when they expire by using the Check Biometric Status Tool.  

What are the requirements you must meet for a TRV? 

You must demonstrate to the Visa Officer that you meet the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations and that you will be in Canada for a temporary stay. A key component to this application would be providing evidence of strong ties to your home country such that you will return there after your visit to Canada.  

As part of your application you must also: 

• satisfy an officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your stay, 
• show that you have enough money to maintain yourself and your family members in Canada and to return home, 

• not intend to work or study in Canada unless authorized to do so, 
• be law abiding and have no record of criminal activity, 
• not be a risk to the security of Canada, 
• provide any additional document requested by the officer to establish your admissibility, and 
• be in good health (complete a medical examination if required) 

Do I have to apply separately for my family members? 

Family members must complete their own application forms. However, you may submit your applications together online or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) and use one payment receipt for the total amount. 

Your spouse or common-law partner and children must meet all of the requirements for temporary residence in Canada.