Maple News reports that foreign nationals planning to visit or stay temporarily in Canada must determine whether they need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP), or neither, depending on their status and purpose of travel.
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is designed for individuals from visa-required countries who are admissible to Canada. This visa grants temporary access for tourism, business visits, study programs, or work assignments, usually for a length matching their permit or up to six months for visitors. Multiple-entry TRVs can remain valid for up to 10 years. The application process includes demonstrating ties to the home country, financial availability, and an intent to leave Canada after the temporary stay.
In contrast, a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is issued to individuals who are otherwise deemed inadmissible under Canadian immigration law—such as those with past criminal offences, including DUIs, medical, or financial inadmissibility, or immigration non-compliance. A TRP provides discretionary entry to Canada, granted on a case-by-case basis where the person’s presence is considered justified despite their inadmissibility. TRPs can last up to three years but must be renewed in advance to maintain legal status.
The application fees and validity periods also differ. A TRV costs $100 to apply, while a TRP comes with a higher cost of $239.75. Both require renewal applications to be submitted well before the current status expires—at least two months in advance for TRVs, and ideally three to six months ahead for TRPs.
Importantly, receiving a TRV or TRP does not automatically guarantee entry into Canada. The final decision always rests with the border services officer at the port of entry, who has the authority to allow or deny admission.
Applicants from visa-exempt countries do not need a TRV for entry by air but typically must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) prior to travel. This process is generally simpler than a TRV or TRP.
In both TRV and TRP applications, the onus lies on the applicant to prove their intent to enter Canada temporarily and leave at the end of their authorized stay. Submitting a clear, credible application with supporting documents is crucial for success.
Maple News advises foreign nationals to carefully assess their eligibility before applying, especially in cases involving prior legal or medical concerns, and recommends considering legal guidance if there’s uncertainty around admissibility.
For those unsure of their status or eligibility, understanding these two pathways can help streamline the process of entering Canada on a temporary basis—whether for leisure, work, family visits, or study.