Business Phone
Canada appeals to travellers, students, and working professionals due to its picturesque views, vibrant lifestyle, commendable public services, and high quality of life. The visitor visa—the temporary resident visa (TRV)—has seen a lasting surge, letting foreigners into the country to work, explore, or visit family for years. The increase in foreigners in Canada is currently at its peak with the launch of the Digital Nomad Visa in 2023 and the constant evolution of Canadian visa pathways.
This blog will detail how to cruise the road to obtaining the TRV, discussing who is eligible for the procedure and how long it takes.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before obtaining a TRV, it is essential to check one’s eligibility. Canada is very particular about the genuineness of a TRV applicant to ensure they will abide by the laws and regulations and exit the country once the authorized period is over. Here are some factors to consider:
Intent: You must show that your intent to stay in Canada is genuine and temporary and prove that you will leave by the date your TRV expires.
Financial Capabilities: You must show enough evidence of being able to provide for yourself financially during your stay.
No Criminal History: Canada is very particular about the background of people they let in with a TRV. The applicant must not have any criminal records.
Health: You might need to undergo certain medical tests to prove that you are healthy and possess no illness that can threaten public safety in Canada.
Passport: You must have a valid passport throughout your entire stay in Canada.
Step 2: Gather Important Documents
Once the eligibility is confirmed, you must gather the supporting documents for your application. Some of the important documents for a TRV include:
Application Form (IMM 5257): Fill in the particulars of the primary TRV form.
Financial Proof: You must show sufficient resources to support your stay in Canada by providing bank statements, pay stubs or sponsorship letters.
Previous Travelling Proofs: If you have travelled internationally, produce previous records if available. This proves you have followed all the rules and regulations in other countries.
Passport Photos: Canada has particular photo specifications. Follow them to avoid delays or rejections in your application.
Proof of Relationship with Your Home Country: To prove that your visit to Canada is only temporary and that you have commitments to your home country, gather property ownership documents, family ties and employment proof.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Submitting a TRV application involves three important steps. First, it can be filled out online or manually. Applicants find the online application more convenient. Second, the form is available on the IRCC website. All particulars must be completed, and the required documents must be attached. Third, a processing fee must be paid before successfully hitting the submit button.
The current processing fee is around 100 CAD; an additional 85 CAD may be required for biometrics. It is essential to make the payment on time to avoid processing delays.
Step 4: Biometrics and Medical Examination (if required)
Whether an applicant is required to submit biometrics depends on their country of origin. It includes submitting your fingerprints and photos at a VAC (Visa Application Center) or any authorized center recognized by the immigration authorities.
If the applicant is from a country with higher health risks, they may be required to take specific medical tests. The IRCC will notify you well in advance whether biometrics or medical examination is necessary for the applicant. If a medical test is needed, an appointment must be made with an approved panel physician.
Step 5: Wait for the Processing and Tracking of Application
Canadian immigration officials will process your application once it is submitted. The processing time may differ depending on several factors, including:
Country of Residence: The IRCC website has a dedicated page listing the processing timelines for various countries. Ensure that you check the website to determine the waiting period.
Completeness of Application: Ensure your application is completed properly and without missing information or documents. If you have missed anything, your application might be delayed.
Seasonal Demand: Peak seasons like summer see a spike in visa applications, which can lead to longer waiting periods.
Step 6: Receiving the Decision
You will be notified once the decision has been made. Your TRV will be placed in your passport if your application is approved. It will become your authorized proof to enter Canada. Applicants may need to appear for an interview to clarify the details they provided on the application.
The IRCC will send a letter stating the reasons for denial for rejected applications. This will allow you to reapply and remind you to be careful with marked issues in your future applications.
Processing Times for TRVs and Other Visa Options
A TRV takes the least processing time but may face delays depending on the applicant’s country of residence, health issues, or the application season. Here are some timelines to consider:
Standard Processing
A TRV takes a minimum of eight and a maximum of twenty weeks to process. However, it may take less time for applications from countries that follow a streamlined process.
Expedited Processing
Canadian immigration professionals sometimes prioritize urgent applications in medical emergencies, family crises, or time-sensitive situations.
Digital Nomad Visa Processing
After COVID-19, Canadian visa programs and the Digital Nomad Visa, intended for remote workers, are still progressing. The processing times vary for each visa, depending on the demands of various seasons.
You can check the processing times for your application specified on the IRCC website for regular updates.
Tips for a Smooth TRV Application Process
To ensure your application gets processed faster, here are some essential tips to follow:
Apply way ahead of your intended travel date. It reduces the stress of rushing through the application and missing important details. You can fill in the application with a less stressful mind and avoid possible delays.
Before submitting your application, check all columns several times to avoid missing important details that can lead to delays or rejections.
The Canadian immigration process is challenging. If you are a first-time applicant and are confused by it, it is advisable to seek the help of an immigration consultant or lawyer. They can simplify the process and help you avoid delays and rejections.
You can track your application on the IRCC portal. Regularly check the website to stay updated.
Conclusion
Understanding the Canadian immigration system is not easy. Researching various pathways and visa options is advisable to find the most suitable choice for applicants. A TRV is the fastest way for individuals planning a temporary stay in Canada to enter Canada. However, recently launched pathways like the digital nomad visa allow remote workers to travel and explore the country while they work at their convenience.
In this blog post, we have discussed the TRV application process and the necessary steps to ensure a successful application. While we have discussed the eligibility requirements for a TRV, you may need to meet additional requirements for Canada’s Digital Nomad Visa or other visa pathways. For instance, applicants might need to prove they can work remotely, including previous freelance work or other remote proof of employment.
With the growing popularity of new immigration pathways, there might be a rising demand for certain visa types, leading to longer processing timelines. Our immigration lawyers can help you successfully file a TRV by understanding the requirements. Smoothen your journey to getting a temporary visa and explore Canada with our expertise.