Whether you are visiting family, attending a business meeting, or exploring Canada as a tourist, you may need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter the country. This guide explains the difference between the two, common refusal reasons, the Super Visa option for parents, and how to extend your stay in Canada.
TRV vs. eTA: Which Do You Need?
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is required for citizens of countries that are not visa-exempt. The TRV is a physical document (vignette) placed in your passport that authorizes travel to Canada. An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for citizens of visa-exempt countries who are flying to Canada. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for five years or until your passport expires. Citizens of the United States do not need either a TRV or an eTA.
TRV Application Requirements
When applying for a TRV, officers assess whether you meet the basic requirements: a valid passport, proof of financial support for your stay, ties to your home country demonstrating your intention to return, a clear purpose of visit, no criminal inadmissibility, and good health (a medical exam may be required). The officer must be satisfied that you are a genuine visitor who will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.
Common Refusal Reasons
Visitor visa refusals are among the most common negative immigration decisions. Frequent reasons include insufficient proof of financial support, weak ties to the home country (no employment, property, or family obligations), inconsistent or unclear travel history, concerns about the purpose of the visit, and previous immigration violations in Canada or other countries. Each refusal reason should be addressed specifically in any re-application.
The Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents
The Super Visa is a special category of visitor visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows stays of up to five years per visit and is valid for up to 10 years. Requirements include a letter of invitation from the child or grandchild in Canada, proof that the inviter meets the minimum income threshold, Canadian medical insurance with at least $100,000 coverage, a medical examination, and the standard TRV requirements. The Super Visa is an excellent alternative for families waiting for the Parents and Grandparents Program lottery.
Extending Your Stay in Canada
If you are already in Canada as a visitor and want to stay longer, you must apply for an extension before your authorized period of stay expires. If you apply before expiry, you can remain in Canada on implied status until a decision is made. If your stay has already expired, you may need to apply for restoration of status (within 90 days of expiry) or leave Canada and apply for a new TRV from abroad.
If you need a visitor visa to Canada or have been refused, contact BridgePoint Law for professional guidance on your application.
