CanadaVisitor Visa (TRV)
A temporary resident visa to visit family, travel, or attend business in Canada for up to six months.
Who this is for
- Visiting family or friends in Canada
- Tourism or a personal trip
- Business meetings, conferences, or trade shows
- Transiting through Canada for more than 48 hours
Eligibility at a glance
- Hold a valid passport with at least six months' validity
- Show strong ties to your home country that you will return to
- Have enough money for your stay and return travel
- Be in good health and have no criminal or immigration inadmissibility
- Convince an officer you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
This is a summary of the requirements, not legal advice. Requirements change, so always check the official IRCC page before you apply.
Documents you will need
The guide includes a template for one of these, and explains every one.
How long it takes, by country
IRCC service standard for this service is 14 days. Published figures move weekly.
| Applying from | Current processing time |
|---|---|
| India | 29 days |
| Pakistan | 65 days |
| Nigeria | 103 days |
| Philippines | 24 days |
| United States | 18 days |
| I am already in Canada | 12 days |
Questions people actually ask
Will I get a multiple-entry visa?
Not automatically. Since November 2024 the officer decides whether to issue a single- or multiple-entry visa, and for how long, up to ten years or until your passport or biometrics expire. A well-documented purpose and strong ties to home improve your chances of a longer, multiple-entry visa.
Does a refusal hurt a future application?
Any prior refusal, from any country, must be disclosed. Hiding one is misrepresentation, which can bar you from Canada for five years and is far more damaging than the refusal itself. Since July 2025 most refusal letters include the officer's notes, so you can see what to fix.
Can I extend my stay once I'm here?
Yes, by applying for a visitor record from inside Canada before your authorised stay ends. It is a separate application from the visa.