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Visitor visas & eTA

Canadian Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa / TRV)

For a traveller who is not visa-exempt who wants to visit Canada temporarily for tourism or to see family. It is an official document placed in your passport.

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Canada government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
Route type
Short-stay visa
Maximum stay
Usually up to 6 months per visit
The border services officer at the port of entry decides the exact period you can stay.
Validity
Can be issued for up to 10 years
Or until your passport or biometrics expire, whichever comes first.
Number of entries
Single or multiple entry
Cost
CAN$100 processing fee per person
Plus an CAN$85 biometrics fee per person (families applying together pay a maximum of CAN$170 for biometrics).
Where to apply
Online through the IRCC secure account / portal, before you travel
You cannot get a TRV on arrival in Canada.

Who can apply

  • Foreign nationals who are not visa-exempt and want to visit Canada temporarily
  • People visiting family or friends in Canada
  • Tourists and other short-term visitors

What you can do

  • Visit Canada temporarily for tourism
  • Visit family or friends

Requirements

  • Satisfy an immigration officer that you have ties to your home country — such as a job, home, financial assets or family — that will take you back
  • Satisfy an officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorised stay
  • Show you have enough money to support yourself (and any family members with you) during the visit and to return home; the amount depends on the length of your stay and whether you stay in a hotel or with family or friends
  • Not intend to work or study in Canada unless separately authorised to do so
  • Be law-abiding with no record of criminal activity, and be admissible to Canada
  • Provide a medical exam if required, and a letter of invitation from a Canadian host if requested

How to apply

  • Confirm you need a TRV (rather than an eTA) using the official IRCC 'Check if you need a visa or an eTA' tool
  • Create or sign in to your IRCC secure account and complete the visitor visa application online
  • Pay the CAN$100 application fee and, if applicable, the CAN$85 biometrics fee
  • Give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a Visa Application Centre if instructed — biometrics stay valid for 10 years once collected
  • Submit and wait for a decision; if approved, send your passport as instructed so the visa can be placed inside it

Documents you may need

  • A valid passport
  • Proof of funds to support your stay and return travel
  • Evidence of ties to your home country (employment, property, family)
  • A letter of invitation from your host in Canada, if applicable
  • Photographs meeting IRCC specifications
  • Results of a medical exam, if required for your situation

Frequently asked questions

  • No. A Temporary Resident Visa must be obtained before you travel — you cannot apply for or receive one on arrival at a Canadian port of entry.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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