Temporary Resident Visas
As a Canadian Immigration Agency, we are experts in the matters of legal and immigration services.
Temporary Resident Visas are one of the applications that we help our clients the most. A temporary resident visa (TRV) is an official document issued by the Canada Immigration and Visa Services, that allows foreign nationals to enter Canada for a temporary period. It is commonly referred to as a “visitor visa”. The TRV is typically issued as a stamp or a counterfoil in the individual’s passport.
The temporary resident visa is required for individuals from countries that are not exempt from the visa requirement. It is intended for individuals who wish to visit Canada for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, attending conferences or events, or conducting business on a temporary basis.
The TRV is usually issued for a specific duration, allowing the individual to stay in Canada for a limited period. The duration of stay is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry or by the visa officer during the application process. It is important to adhere to the authorized period of stay and leave Canada before the visa expires to comply with Canadian immigration laws.
As a Vancouver Immigration Consultant, Messia Ditshimba, notes that the temporary resident visas are different from other types of visas in Canada, such as study permits or work permits, which allow individuals to engage in specific activities or stay for longer durations.
HOW TO START THE APPLICATION PROCESS?
To start the process of obtaining a temporary resident visa (visitor visa) for Canada, Messia, as a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, advice on following these steps:
- Determine if you need a visa: Check if you require a temporary resident visa to enter Canada. Citizens of certain countries are exempt from the visa requirement. You can find a list of visa-exempt countries on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Gather required documents: Review the document checklist provided by IRCC to ensure you have all the necessary documents. Typically, you will need a valid passport, proof of financial support, a letter of invitation (if applicable), and other supporting documents.
- Complete the application form: Fill out the application form for a temporary resident visa. The form is called the “Application for Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)” and is available on the IRCC website. Provide accurate and up-to-date information.
- Pay the application fee: Pay the required visa application fee. The fee amount varies depending on the type of visa and your country of residence. Refer to the IRCC website for the current fee.
- Submit the application: Submit your application form, along with the supporting documents and the application fee, to the designated visa application center (VAC) or embassy/consulate responsible for processing Canadian visas in your country. Some countries may require you to apply online through the IRCC website.
- Biometrics appointment: In some cases, you may be required to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph. If this applies to you, you will receive instructions on how to schedule a biometrics appointment at a VAC.
- Wait for processing: The processing time for temporary resident visa applications can vary depending on factors such as the volume of applications and your country of residence. Check the current processing times on the IRCC website. During this period, it is advisable to avoid making any non-refundable travel arrangements until you receive your visa.
- Decision on your application: Once the visa office has processed your application, you will be informed of the decision. If approved, your temporary resident visa will be stamped in your passport. If refused, the reasons for the refusal will be provided.
It is important to note that the application process and requirements may change over time, so it’s always best to refer to the official IRCC website or consult with an immigration professional for the most up-to-date information and guidance specific to your situation.
EXTENSION OF TEMPORARY RESIDENT STATUS
As a Canadian Immigration Agency, we can advise you on how to extend your temporary resident status in Canada. To state a general idea, you would typically need to apply for an extension before your current status expires. Temporary resident status includes visas such as visitor visas, work permits, and study permits.
Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Determine eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria for the specific type of temporary resident status you hold. Make sure you meet the requirements for extending your status.
- Application package: Gather the necessary documents for your extension application. The required documents may vary depending on your status, but common documents include a completed application form, a valid passport, proof of financial support, and any supporting documents relevant to your specific status (such as a job offer or acceptance letter from a Canadian educational institution).
- Submitting the application: Submit your application to the appropriate immigration office or online portal. Make sure to include the required fees with your application. The application process can be completed online or through a paper-based application.
- Processing time: The processing time for extension applications can vary depending on the type of temporary resident status and current processing volumes. It’s advisable to submit your application well in advance of your current status expiration to allow for processing delays.
- Decision: Once your application is processed, you will receive a decision on your extension request. If approved, you will be granted an extension to your temporary resident status. If your application is refused, you may have to leave Canada before your current status expires.
As a Canadian Immigration Agency, we point out that the specific process and requirements can change over time, so it’s always recommended to visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or consult us for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding your situation.