Temporary Resident Visa Canada (TRV) – How to Apply & Get Stamped

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is a formal document provided stamped in individual’s passport, that shows that individual can be enter in Canada as a visitor or worker.

Why do we need Temporary Resident Visa?

Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) are needed to at the port of entry to ensure compliance with immigration laws and provide documentation that individual holds a valid status for being temporary resident in Canada, this status could be worker or visitor.

If you have gotten you Post graduate work permit and your study permit on passport is expiring soon, you would need TRV on your passport to have your status valid and use to enter in Canada. You can check below, how you can apply for TRV after getting PGWP.

If you are extending your stay as a student then also you would need TRV.

If you come from visa-exempt country you wouldn’t need TRV or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter in Canada.

Eligibility Requirements for TRV

1. Valid Passport: Applicants must have a valid passport that will remain valid for the duration of their intended stay in Canada.
2. Purpose of Visit: Applicants must demonstrate a legitimate purpose for their visit to Canada, such as tourism, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings, or studying.
3. Sufficient Funds: Applicants must prove they have enough funds to cover their expenses during their stay in Canada, including accommodation, transportation, and living expenses.
4. Ties to Home Country: Applicants must demonstrate strong ties to their home country, such as employment, property ownership, family relationships, or other commitments, to ensure they will return home after their visit to Canada.
5. Health and Security: Applicants may need to undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates to demonstrate they are in good health and do not pose a security risk to Canada.
6. Intent to Depart: Applicants must demonstrate their intention to leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay, such as having a return ticket or proof of onward travel.

How to Apply TRV?

1. Apply TRV In Canada

If you’re living in Canada and want to extend your stay or you have received PGWP and want to get TRV, you will have to follow these steps below:

1. Check Eligibility: Visit the Government of Canada’s website under the Immigration tab and complete the “Find out if you need a visa” survey to determine your eligibility for a TRV.
2. Create an Account: Save the reference code provided and create an account on the same website using your bank account details or a Government of Canada login (GCKey).
3. Submit Application: Use your reference code to access the application forms and fill them out online. Pay the application fees around $100.
   • Form IMM5257E – Application for Temporary Resident Visa.
   • Form IMM5645 or IMM5707 – Family information.
4. Wait for Processing: After submitting your application, you will get confirmation within few days. And once you get the confirmation of application you will get TRV in around 30 days.
5. Respond to Additional Requests: If requested, attend a visa interview and/or provide biometric information at the scheduled time.
6. Send Passport for Stamping: Once your TRV is approved, you’ll receive notification on your online account or from the Embassy.
7. Receive Stamped Passport: The Consulate will process your passport, stamp it, and return it to you either by mail or in person. If mailed, it may take a few days to arrive.

Application and Processing Time for TRV

The application fees for TRV is $100 and $85 for biometrics (if applicable). You may have to pay additional $30-$60 for mailing it to visa office for getting your passport stamped.

Processing time may vary depending on the profile, The average processing time for TRV is 30 days but you can check the latest processing times on IRCC website.

2. Apply TRV Outside Canada

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet TRV requirements outlined by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
2. Gather Documents: Collect required documents such as passport, photos, and financial proof.
3. Complete Form: Fill out TRV application form online or download PDF.
4. Pay Fee: Submit application fee for processing your TRV application.
5. Submit Application: Send completed form and documents to Canadian visa office or VAC.
6. Biometrics (if needed): Schedule appointment for biometric data (fingerprints, photo).
7. Wait for Decision: Await processing of application by IRCC.
8. Receive Decision: Notification of approval or rejection will be provided.
9. Travel Planning: Arrange travel to Canada with approved TRV.

Documents required for TRV

Here are the documents required for a TRV application:

1. Recent Education Transcript: Provide current academic records or explain if not available yet.
2. Canadian Study or Work Permit: Include a scanned copy of your valid permit.
3. Letter of Enrolment: Obtain from SSC or advisor; explains program details and completion timeline.
4. Proof of Financial Support: Show funds for expenses, e.g., bank statements, sponsor letters.
5. Passport: Submit scanned bio-data and stamped pages showing travel history.
6. Digital Photo: Comply with specifications; can be taken at designated centers.

Optional Documents:

1. Letter of Explanation: Clarify application details or unusual circumstances.
2. Medical Exam (if applicable): Required based on residency or field of work.
3. Schedule 1 Form (if applicable): Complete if certain questions are answered affirmatively.
4. Biometrics (if needed): Submit fingerprints and photo at Service Canada if required.

How to Send your passport for TRV stamp in Canada

If you have already gotten your TRV approved and now you want to mail it for getting stamped, you can follow these steps to mail your passport after getting TRV approved.

1. Purchase Envelopes: Get two prepaid 24×32 cm Xpresspost-National envelopes from any Canada Post store.
2. Envelope Setup: Place one envelope inside the other. The second one is for returning your passport.
3. Track Numbers: Note down the tracking numbers for both envelopes.
4. Include Documents: Put in all required documents, including the application approval letter.
5. Complete Mailing Info: Fill out your full mailing address as the recipient. Use the return address for the Case Processing Centre-Ottawa post office box.
6. Mail: Drop off the sealed envelope at any Canada Post location for delivery.
7. Monitor Delivery: Keep track of the tracking numbers to monitor delivery status.

Here’s video explaining the steps:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is a TRV valid for?

The validity of a TRV depends on various factors, including the purpose of the visit and your status in canada. TRVs are typically issued for a specific period, allowing temporary entry into Canada for that duration.

Can I extend my TRV while in Canada?

In some cases, it may be possible to extend a TRV while in Canada. However, extensions are not guaranteed, and individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria and follow the proper application process.

What should I do if my TRV application is refused?

A TRV alone does not authorize you to work or study in Canada. If you wish to work or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate permits in addition to the TRV.

Is a TRV the same as a visa?

Yes, a TRV is often referred to as a visitor visa. It allows individuals to enter Canada temporarily for a specific purpose and duration.