Overview
This guide explains what IRCC currently expects for a visitor visa (also called a temporary resident visa or TRV). It is a reference checklist, not a guarantee of approval, and not advice for a specific refusal or complicated travel history.
Common situations
Visiting family or friends for a short trip
Most applicants need a clear purpose, proof of funds, and strong ties to return home. An invitation letter can help explain the visit but does not replace a visa decision.
Tourism or short business meetings
Business visitors still need to show they will not enter the Canadian labour market and will leave on time. Use IRCC’s visitor visa pathway for your situation.
Parents considering a longer stay
If you are a parent or grandparent planning to stay more than 6 months with a child or grandchild who is a citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian, compare a regular visitor visa with a Super Visa.
Already in Canada and need more time
Extending stay inland usually means applying for a visitor record, not a new TRV. See IRCC’s extend your stay page.
Visitor visa vs visitor record
| Document | What it does | What it is not |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor visa (TRV) | Shows you met requirements to travel to Canada; placed in your passport | Not proof of how long you may stay after entry |
| Visitor record | Can extend how long you may stay as a visitor inside Canada | Not a visa (IRCC’s wording) |
A border services officer still decides whether you may enter and for how long, even with a valid visa.
Who can apply (core requirements)
According to IRCC’s eligibility page, you must:
- have a valid travel document, such as a passport
- be in good health
- have no criminal or immigration-related convictions (admissibility rules still apply)
- convince an officer you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets, or family—that will take you back to your home country
- convince an officer you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
- have enough money for your stay (amount depends on length of stay and whether you stay in a hotel or with friends or relatives)
You may also need a medical exam and a letter of invitation from someone in Canada.
Fees
IRCC currently lists:
- visitor visa processing fee: $CAN 100 per person
- family rate: $CAN 500 for 5 or more people applying together
- biometrics: often $CAN 85 per person (family maximum may apply)
Fees change. Confirm on the live IRCC fee list when you pay.
What officers typically weigh
Beyond the basic list, officers look at whether you appear to be a genuine temporary visitor: purpose of travel, travel history, family and finances, and consistency across forms and documents.
Tamara can review purpose of travel, ties, funds, and invitation documents before you submit to IRCC.
Application steps
- Confirm whether you need a visitor visa or an eTA.
- Gather identity, funds, ties, itinerary, and invitation documents if relevant.
- Check visa-office instructions for your country.
- Apply online through IRCC and pay fees (including biometrics when required).
- Give biometrics after you receive instructions, if applicable.
- If approved, still prepare for questions at the port of entry.
When to get help
Consider a licensed RCIC review if you have a prior refusal, weak or complex funds, limited travel history, mixed family status in Canada, or you are choosing between a visitor visa and a Super Visa.
Common mistakes
- Confusing a TRV with a visitor record
- Treating an invitation letter as a visa approval
- Showing purpose of visit that does not match funds or itinerary
- Ignoring country-specific visa-office document lists
- Assuming visa validity equals authorized stay length after entry
Related guides
- Visitor Visa Document Checklist
- Visitor Visa Proof of Funds
- Invitation Letter
- Visitor Visa vs Super Visa
This guide summarizes official IRCC sources listed above. Requirements change. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.
Before you apply
- Confirmed whether you need a visitor visa or an eTA
- Checked passport validity and identity pages
- Prepared proof of funds for the planned stay
- Gathered evidence of ties to your home country
- Reviewed invitation letter needs (if invited)
- Confirmed processing and biometrics fees on IRCC
Frequently asked questions
- What is a visitor visa / TRV?
- IRCC calls it a visitor visa or temporary resident visa. It is an official document stuck in your passport showing you meet the requirements to travel to Canada as a temporary resident (visitor, and in other contexts also linked to study or work travel).
- Is a visitor visa the same as a visitor record?
- No. A visitor visa (TRV) helps you travel to and enter Canada. A visitor record is an inland document that can extend how long you may stay as a visitor. IRCC states a visitor record is not a visa.
- How long can I stay with a visitor visa?
- On arrival, a border services officer usually authorizes a stay of up to 6 months unless they set a different date. Visa validity (how long you can travel) is separate from how long you may stay after each entry.
- What is the visitor visa fee?
- IRCC currently lists a processing fee of $CAN 100 per person, or $CAN 500 for a family of 5 or more applying together. Biometrics fees may also apply. Always re-check before payment.
- Do I need an invitation letter?
- Sometimes. IRCC may ask for a letter of invitation. An invitation letter does not guarantee a visa.
- Is this legal advice?
- No. This guide summarizes official IRCC guidance. Outcomes depend on your full facts and officer assessment.
See also
References
- Visitor visa (temporary resident visa)
- Who can apply (eligibility)
- How to apply for a visitor visa
- Letter of invitation
- Extend your stay (visitor record)
- Visit Canada
Note: This guide is general information, not legal advice. Outcomes depend on your facts and IRCC’s assessment. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.