Visitor Visa Canada (TRV) or Visa Canada

Visitor Visas and Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) for Canada

Whether you're planning a vacation, visiting family and friends, or exploring business opportunities, understanding the intricacies of obtaining a Visitor Visas and Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) for Canada can significantly impact your travel plans. Let's embark on a comprehensive journey through the world of visitor visas and TRVs, exploring their importance, application process, benefits, and more.

Introduction to Visitor Visa:

A visitor visa serves as your gateway to Canada, granting temporary entry into the country for tourism, family visits, business engagements, or other permissible activities.

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV):

The Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or visa for Canada is the official term for the visitor visa issued by the Canadian government. It acts as a legal authorization for individuals to enter Canada temporarily. TRVs are typically valid for up to six months, allowing visitors to enjoy an extended stay in the country.

Visitor Visa to Canada:

Securing a visitor visa to Canada is a crucial step for anyone wishing to travel to Canada. Whether you're planning a short-term visit or an extended stay, obtaining the necessary documentation is essential for smooth entry into the country. The visitor visa application process involves several steps, including filling out forms, providing supporting documents, and attending an interview (if required).

Benefits of a Multiple Entry Visa:

For frequent travelers to Canada, a multiple entry visa offers added convenience and flexibility. Unlike single entry visas, which permit only one entry into Canada, multiple entry visas allow visitors to come and go from the country as needed within the visa's validity period. This means you can travel back and forth between Canada and your home country without the hassle of reapplying for a visa each time. Whether you're a business professional attending meetings in Toronto, a student exploring academic opportunities in Montreal, or a tourist soaking in the natural beauty of Vancouver, a multiple entry visa ensures seamless travel experiences.

Canada Visa Application Process:

Navigating the visitor visa application process requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific requirements set forth by IRCC. Applicants must complete the appropriate forms, such as the IMM 5257 application for a temporary resident visa, and provide supporting documents to substantiate their purpose of visit, ties to their home country, and ability to finance their trip. Additionally, applicants may need to undergo a medical examination, provide biometric data, or attend an interview at a Canadian consulate or embassy.

Tips for a Successful Canadian Visa Application:

To increase your chances of obtaining a visitor visa or TRV, it's essential to approach the application process with thorough preparation and attention to detail.

1. Plan Ahead: Begin the visa application process well in advance of your intended travel dates to allow ample time for processing and potential delays.
2. Provide Accurate Information: Ensure all information provided on your application forms is accurate and consistent with supporting documents.
3. Submit Complete Documentation: Include all required supporting documents, such as passport copies, travel itineraries, financial statements, and letters of invitation, to strengthen your application
4. Demonstrate Ties to Your Home Country: Highlight your connections to your home country, such as employment, property ownership, family relationships, and community involvement, to demonstrate your intention to return after your visit to Canada.
5. Show Financial Stability: Provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover your travel expenses, including transportation, accommodation, meals, and other associated costs, to assure Canadian authorities of your ability to support yourself during your stay.
6. Be Honest and Transparent: Answer all questions truthfully and transparently, providing explanations for any discrepancies or issues that may arise during the application process.
7. Seek Professional Assistance if Needed: If you're unsure about any aspect of the application process or require guidance, consider seeking assistance from Akrami & Associates Immigration Law firm where we have over 15 years of experience dealing with visitor visa applications.

Common Questions and Answers

Who Qualifies as Visitors?

Visitors encompass individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents of Canada but are granted legal authorization to enter the country for various purposes, such as:

• Vacationing in Canada,
• Visiting family members,
• Engaging in business activities, etc.

Visitors are subject to specific conditions and restrictions regarding their length of stay.

Do I Need a Temporary Resident Visa?

Individuals who are neither Canadian citizens nor permanent residents may need a visa to enter Canada. This requirement extends to temporary residents who are transiting through the country. Determining whether you require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa is essential.

In instances where a visa isn't necessary for entry into Canada, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) might be required. It's imperative to ascertain whether an eTA is necessary.

What Constitutes a Temporary Resident Visa?

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), commonly known as a visitor visa, is an official document issued by a Canadian visa office. It is placed in your passport to signify that you've met the prerequisites for admission to Canada as a temporary resident, whether as a visitor, student, or worker.

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) must be obtained before departure. It cannot be acquired upon arrival in Canada.

What Criteria Must You Fulfill for a TRV?

When applying for a TRV, you must demonstrate to the officer that you meet the requirements outlined in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and its accompanying regulations. Additionally, you must convince the officer that:

• You intend to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay,
• You possess sufficient funds to sustain yourself and your accompanying family members during your stay in Canada and to facilitate your return home,
• You do not plan to engage in unauthorized work or study in Canada,
• You have a clean criminal record and pose no security risk to Canada,
• You can furnish any additional documents requested by the officer to establish your admissibility, and
• You are in good health,

and willing to undergo a medical examination if deemed necessary.

What if You Were Previously Granted Permanent Resident Status?

Individuals who have previously been granted permanent residence or landed immigrant status in Canada may still retain their permanent resident status. Consequently, a TRV cannot be issued if you hold permanent residency.

In such cases, you might consider applying for a Travel Document (Permanent Resident Abroad). If you meet the eligibility criteria for a travel document, you can return to Canada as a permanent resident.

However, if you no longer wish to maintain your permanent resident status or are aware that you do not meet the requirements to retain it, you have the option to voluntarily relinquish (renounce) your permanent residency to apply for a TRV.

May I engage in work or study while in Canada while on visitor Visa?

Visitors are generally prohibited from working or studying in Canada unless they have been authorized to do so under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations. In most cases, obtaining a work or study permit is necessary.

Furthermore, a temporary resident may enroll in a study program lasting up to six months without requiring a study permit.

Introduction to the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa:

Super visa is a visitor visa for parents and grandparents only.  The multiple-entry super visa offers parents and grandparents the opportunity to enter Canada multiple times. With a Super visa, you can stay in Canada for up to five years with each entry.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Super Visa?

To apply for a super visa, you must be either the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada. It is important to note that dependent children cannot be included in this application. If your spouse or common-law partner wishes to accompany you, they must submit a separate application.

How Can I Apply for a Super Visa?

To initiate the super visa application process, you must submit an application to a visa office. Additionally, you need to provide a letter of invitation written and signed by your child or grandchild, committing to providing financial support for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.

Documentation indicating your host child or grandchild's family composition, including dependents, such as a spouse, children, or other relatives financially dependent on your host child or grandchild.

You also need to demonstrate that your child or grandchild meets the minimum low income cut-off (LICO) by providing a recent copy of their federal income tax notice of assessment. Alternatively, if your child or grandchild does not possess a paper copy of their notice of assessment, they can access and print their tax returns and other personal tax information through the Canada Revenue Agency’s My Account online service. Also, they can provide an original letter from your child’s or grandchild’s employer stating their job title, description, and salary. The child or grandchild’s employment insurance benefit statements. A letter from an accountant confirming annual income if self-employed. Proof of other sources of income, such as pension statements or investment documentation.

Obtaining a visitor visa or a super visa for Canada is a vital step for individuals wishing to visit friends and family, explore business opportunities, or embark on leisurely travels in the country. While the visitor visa grants temporary entry into Canada for various purposes, the super visa offers a unique opportunity for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to enjoy extended stays in the country. Both visa options require careful consideration of eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and adherence to the application process. By understanding the intricacies of these visa programs and providing thorough documentation, applicants can enhance their chances of a successful application and look forward to memorable experiences in the diverse and welcoming landscapes of Canada.

In navigating the complexities of obtaining a visitor visa or super visa for Canada, Akrami & Associates Immigration Law Firm stands ready to assist. Our experienced team of immigration consultants is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the application process, ensuring that your documentation is thorough and your application is submitted with confidence. With our expertise and personalized support, you can trust Akrami & Associates to help you achieve your goal of visiting or reuniting with loved ones, conducting business ventures, or exploring the wonders of Canada. Contact us today to begin your journey with peace of mind and assurance.