A Canadian visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa, or TRV) is required for citizens of many countries who want to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or short business trips. This guide explains who needs one, how to apply, and how to avoid common refusals.
Do You Need a Visitor Visa?
Citizens of some countries can visit Canada without a visa — they only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA, $7 CAD) when flying into Canada. Citizens of the United States are exempt from both the eTA and the TRV when crossing by land, sea, or air. Citizens of most other countries need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) before entering Canada. Check IRCC's country list to determine whether you need a TRV, an eTA, or neither based on your nationality.
How Long Can You Stay?
A visitor is typically authorized to stay in Canada for six months from the date of entry, though the border officer at the port of entry determines the actual authorized stay and stamps your passport accordingly. Your visa may be valid for multiple entries over several years, but each visit is subject to the six-month (or officer-determined) limit. If you want to stay longer than your authorized period, you must apply for a visitor record extension before your current authorized stay expires.
Applying for a TRV Online
Apply online through the IRCC portal. Required documents: valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Canada), digital photos meeting IRCC specs, proof of financial support (bank statements, employment letter, proof of assets), a clear purpose of visit (invitation letter from Canadian host if visiting family or friends, itinerary or conference registration if for tourism or business), and biometrics (required for most nationalities — book a biometrics appointment at a VAC after submitting your application). The application fee is $100 CAD.
Common Refusal Reasons
The most common reason for visitor visa refusals is that the officer was not satisfied that you would leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay — in other words, insufficient ties to your home country. Strong ties include: stable employment or self-employment, family members (spouse, children) remaining in your home country, property ownership, and financial assets in your home country. Other refusal reasons include: insufficient funds to cover your visit, a previous immigration violation in Canada or another country, an incomplete or inconsistent application, and failure to demonstrate the purpose of the visit clearly.
Reapplying After Refusal
A TRV refusal is not permanent. You can reapply at any time, but your new application must address the specific reasons for the previous refusal. A generic reapplication with the same documents is unlikely to succeed. If you received a refusal letter, read it carefully — IRCC is required to provide the reasons. Strengthen your application by addressing those specific concerns: stronger proof of ties, more financial documentation, a clearer invitation letter, or an explanation of any previous immigration issues.
Visitor Visa vs Super Visa
If you are a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or PR, the Super Visa is a better option than a regular TRV — it allows stays of up to five years per entry rather than the standard six months. The Super Visa requires Canadian medical insurance and an income threshold from the Canadian child, but offers significantly more flexibility for long-term family visits.