When planning your journey to Canada, distinguishing between visas and permits is crucial. A visa authorizes you to enter Canada and stay for a specified period. It’s essentially a stamp or endorsement in your passport. In contrast, a permit grants you the legal status to work or study in Canada. It outlines your permitted activities and duration of stay.
Common Visa Types for Foreigners
- Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs): These are typically required by foreign nationals seeking to visit, study, or work in Canada. They can be single-entry or multiple-entry visas.
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Citizens of visa-exempt countries can obtain an eTA online before traveling to Canada. It’s a digital travel authorization linked to your passport.
Key Visa Questions and Answers
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Can I Pay for a Visa or eTA in My Local Currency?
- While many visa offices accept local currency payments, it depends on your country of residence. Use IRCC’s website to find the visa office processing applications from your country and check their payment options.
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Should I Apply for an eTA or Visa Simultaneously with My Work/Study Permit?
- IRCC advises against applying for an eTA or visa at the same time as your work or study permit. These documents will typically be issued together if your application is successful.
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Can I Leave and Re-enter Canada with a Temporary Resident Visa?
- The ability to re-enter depends on the type of visa you have:
- Single-entry visa: You can generally re-enter only if you’re traveling to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon and returning to Canada before your approved stay expires.
- Multiple-entry visa: You can leave and re-enter multiple times within the visa’s validity period.
- The ability to re-enter depends on the type of visa you have:
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How Do I Know When My Temporary Resident Status Expires?
- Your work or study permit will indicate your expiration date. For tourists, check the stamp in your passport or any additional documents issued by the CBSA officer at the port of entry. If no specific date is mentioned, your temporary status generally expires six months from your arrival date.
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Can I Use a Visa in My Old Passport After Obtaining a New One?
- Yes, you can use the visa in your old passport if it’s still valid. However, it’s recommended to obtain a new visa in your new passport to avoid potential border delays.
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Can I Bring My Family Members to Canada on My Work or Study Permit?
- Yes, you may be able to bring your family members to Canada under certain conditions. You’ll need to apply for a dependent visa or work permit for them. The specific requirements vary depending on your type of permit and family relationship.
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What Happens if My Visa or Permit Gets Lost or Stolen?
- If your visa or permit is lost or stolen, you should report it to the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate as soon as possible. You may need to apply for a replacement document.
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Can I Change My Status from Visitor to Student or Worker While in Canada?
- In some cases, it’s possible to change your status while in Canada. However, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria and apply for a new permit. It’s important to consult with IRCC or an immigration professional to determine if you’re eligible for a status change.
Additional Tips
- Plan Ahead: Apply for your visa or eTA well in advance of your planned travel to avoid delays.
- Provide Accurate Information: Ensure that all information provided in your application is accurate and up-to-date.
- Check Visa Requirements: Regularly check the specific visa requirements for your nationality and purpose of travel.
- Understand Visa Extensions: If your temporary resident status is nearing expiration, explore options for extending your visa or permit.
- Stay Informed: Keep updated with the latest immigration news and regulations to ensure a smooth experience.
By understanding the nuances of Canadian visas and following these tips, you can navigate the immigration process effectively and make your journey to Canada a successful one.
