Temporary Resident visa?

A temporary resident visa is an official document issued by a visa office abroad that is placed in your passport to show that you have met the requirements for admission to Canada as a temporary resident (either as a visitor, student, or worker).

A valid temporary resident visa is not a guarantee of entry into Canada; an officer at the port of entry will decide if you still meet the requirements for admission when you arrive. If there has been a change in circumstances between the date of your application and your arrival in Canada or if subsequent information is given which was not originally available to the visa office, you may be refused entry.

A visa may be for a single entry, for multiple entries, or for transit purposes.

A single entry visa allows you to enter Canada only once. This visa may also be used for repeated entries into Canada from the USA or St. Pierre and Miquelon provided you do not enter another country. Such entries must occur within the time validated for your stay in Canada. (e.g.. You may be given six months from the date you enter Canada at the Port of Entry).

A multiple entry visa allows you to enter Canada from any country multiple times during the validity of the visa.

A transit visa is required for travel through Canada to another country by those persons who need a temporary resident visa and whose flight will stop in Canada for less than 48 hours. To obtain a transit visa you must provide specific evidence of your travel arrangements from your transportation company or travel agent.

Do I need a temporary resident visa?

Persons who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada may require a visa to enter Canada. The requirement for a visa also applies to temporary residents who are in transit through Canada.

When should I apply?

Applications should be made at least one month before your intended departure date.

Note: If you are mailing your application, allow up to eight weeks for it to be received as mail services can vary.

What requirements must I meet for a temporary resident visa?

You must show the officer that you meet the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations and that you will be in Canada for a temporary stay. You must also:

• satisfy an officer that you will leave Canada

• show that you have enough money to maintain yourself and your family members in Canada and to return home;

To apply for a transit visa, you may be asked to show your travel tickets as part of the evidence of your travel arrangements.

• not intend to work or study in Canada unless authorized to do so;

• be law abiding and have no record of criminal activity (you may be asked to provide a Police Clearance Certificate);

• not be a risk to the security of Canada;

• produce any additional documents requested by the officer to establish your admissibility;

• be in good health (complete a medical examination, if required).

Note: Citizens and residents of certain countries require additional formalities which could add three weeks or more to the normal processing period. The visa office will advise you further if such requirements apply to you.

What documents do I need to apply for a temporary resident visa?

Complete the application form and include the documents listed below.

You must provide the following documents for yourself and any accompanying family members.

Proof of identity

• a valid passport or travel document that guarantees re-entry to the country that issued it;

• two recent passport size photos for each family member (the name and date of birth of the person should be written on the back of each photo); and

Proof of financial support

• proof of funds available to support yourself and family members during your stay and to enable you to leave Canada, such as a bank statement, pay stubs, proof of employment or proof of travellers' cheques.

In addition, note that:

• if you are not a citizen of the country in which you are applying, you must provide proof of your present immigration status in the country of application;

• if the government that issued your passport or travel document requires a re-entry permit this must be obtained before you apply for a Canadian visa; and

• additional documents may be required

FEES

*Temporary Resident Visa –  Single entry -  $75

*Temporary Resident Visa –  Multiple Entry -  $150

*Temporary Resident Visa –  Family Rate - $400

You must contact the local visa office responsible for your area, for information on fees and methods of payments. Visa offices cannot accept fee payment receipts from banks in Canada.