The Canadian Visa Queries process can be complex, especially for foreign workers, international students, and tourists. Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter Canada.
This guide will provide crucial information and answer common questions to help you understand the distinctions between visas and permits, the payment process, and other essential details.
The Difference Between a Visa and a Permit:
| Work and Study Permits | Visas |
| Work and study permits are vital documents for foreign nationals who want to live, work, or study in Canada. These permits grant legal status and outline the duration and activities allowed in the country. | Visas are documents that enable entry and re-entry into Canada. They demonstrate the holder’s legal status and permission to enter the country. |
| Work Permits: Open Work Permits (OWPs): These allow you to work for any employer in Canada. Closed Work Permits: Linked to a specific employer, often requiring a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Study Permits: Allow international students to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. | Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs): For workers, students, and tourists. Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): This is for those who don’t need a TRV but still need entry approval. |
Payment Methods for Visa/eTA Applications:
You can often pay for your visa or eTA in your local currency. To check if this option is available, visit the IRCC visa office page to find the visa office handling applications from your country.
Applying for an eTA or Visa with Your Work/Study Permit:
Timing Your Applications:
Do not apply for an eTA or visa separately when submitting a work or study permit application. Successful applicants will receive their eTA or visa concurrently with their work or study permit.
Re-Entry with a Temporary Resident Visa:
Single-Entry vs. Multiple-Entry Visas:
| Single-Entry Visas | Multiple-Entry Visas |
| Require a new visa for re-entry unless travelling to the U.S., St. Pierre, or Miquelon and returning before the approved stay ends. | Allow multiple re-entries within the visa validity period. |
Checking Your Temporary Resident Status:
| Expiry Dates | Entry Stamps |
| Work/Study Permits: Check the expiry date on your permit. Visitor Visa/eTA: This may expire before establishing your temporary resident status. If so, apply for an extension or renewal. | Upon arrival, tourists receive a stamp on their passport indicating their entry date. If no date is specified, your status expires six months from the entry date |
Visit the links below to find out more information about your temporary resident status
Using a Visa in an Old Passport:
If your valid visa is in an expired passport, you can still use it to enter Canada. Bring both your old passport with the valid visa and your new passport. However, getting a new visa using your current passport is advisable to ensure the earliest possible delays.
Understanding these key aspects of the Canadian visa process can help you better prepare for your journey. Whether you’re a worker, student, or tourist, this guide aims to simplify your experience and answer the most common Canadian Visa Queries.
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