If you’re interested in experiencing Canada temporarily, whether for travel, family visits, or exploring potential permanent residence, you may need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), commonly known as a Visitor Visa.

A visitor visa is for temporary stays only, usually up to six months per entry, as decided by the border officer. You must show that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit. A visitor visa does not allow you to work, and visitors can no longer apply for a work permit from inside Canada (this option ended on August 28, 2024). A visitor visa can be valid for up to 10 years, but not beyond the expiry of your passport or biometrics; the officer decides whether to issue a single- or multiple-entry visa and may set a shorter validity. Citizens of visa-exempt countries need an electronic travel authorization (eTA) instead when flying to Canada.

Interested in a TRV?