Canada, renowned for its natural beauty and diverse cultural offerings, attracts millions of visitors each year. Whether it’s to explore the stunning landscapes, reunite with family and friends, or explore opportunities for permanent residency, visitors to Canada must navigate the intricacies of immigration regulations to ensure a smooth and legal stay in the country.
What are the entry documents required?
Before planning a visit to Canada, it’s essential to understand the various types of entry documents available. For travellers from visa-exempt countries, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is typically required for air travel to Canada. With an eTA, visitors can stay in Canada for up to six months per visit, subject to approval by border officers upon arrival.
Alternatively, visitors from non-exempt countries must obtain a visitor visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), to enter Canada. TRVs can be single-entry or multiple-entry, with durations of up to six months per visit. Additionally, individuals with family ties in Canada may qualify for a Super Visa for parents and grandparents, allowing stays of up to two years at a time.
What are the visa-exempt countries?
Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belgium
- British citizen
- Overseas British National
- Overseas British National citizen (re-admissible to the United Kingdom)
- British Subject with a right of abode in the United Kingdom
- Brunei Darussalam
- Bulgaria
- Chile
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, must have a passport issued by Hong Kong SAR.
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Mexico
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Papua New Guinea
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania (electronic passport holders only)
- Samoa
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Solomon Islands
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Arab Emirates
- Lawful permanent resident of the United States
- Vatican City State, must have a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican
What to do if you want to extend your stay?
For those already in Canada, extending your stay is possible through a Visitor Record issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). A Visitor Record grants authorization for an individual to legally stay in Canada for a specified period, typically to extend their initial authorized stay or make changes to their conditions of stay, such as transitioning to worker or student status.
Business visitors and work permits
Business travellers to Canada may require a Business Visitor Visa, distinct from temporary work permits for foreign workers engaging in the Canadian labour market. It’s essential to distinguish between these documents to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and avoid legal complications during your visit.
Visitor records vs. visitor visas
While both Visitor Records and Visitor Visas authorize individuals’ presence in Canada as visitors, they differ in purpose and issuance process. Visitor Visas, obtained from Canadian visa offices abroad, allow entry into Canada for a limited period, usually up to six months. In contrast, Visitor Records are applied for and obtained from within Canada, typically for extending stays or changing conditions of stay.
Conclusion
The duration of stay authorized by Visitor Records and Visitor Visas varies based on individual circumstances and immigration regulations. Whether you’re entering Canada for leisure, business, or family visits, understanding the authorized period of stay is crucial for compliance with immigration laws and maximizing your enjoyment of your time in Canada.
As a visitor to Canada, navigating the immigration landscape can seem daunting. However, by understanding the different types of entry documents, extension processes, and compliance requirements, individuals can ensure a smooth and legal stay in this beautiful country. Whether you’re exploring the majestic Rocky Mountains, experiencing vibrant city life, or connecting with loved ones, Canada welcomes visitors from around the world to create unforgettable memories and experiences.
If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at +1 778 239 7861 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.
