Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)/Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). You may use the following IRCC link to see whether you require a TRV, eTA, or just your passport to travel to Canada.

TRV is also referred to as a “visitor visa” or “entry visa”. It is a stamped travel document placed in your passport and is used for entering or re-entering Canada. (See image below).

TRV is usually issued for the same duration as your study permit or work permit. A TRV grants you permission to travel to Canada, while a study permit allows you to study in Canada. Please check here to determine whether or not you need a TRV.

If your TRV has expired, it is recommended that you apply for a new TRV upon receiving your new study permit, especially if you plan to leave Canada and re-enter in the near future.

There’s only one exception to this. You may be able to re-enter Canada with an expired visitor visa (not an expired eTA) if:

you only visit the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon and
you return to Canada before your study permit expires.

When applying for a TRV, you may require a Confirmation of Enrolment Letter – Special Purpose Letter. Please meet with an International Student Advisor if you require this letter.

How to apply for TRV?

When applying for your TRV, please refer to the following video and resources.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA. You do not need an eTA for travel within Canada. For more information, please check here.

For steps on how to apply for an eTA, visit IRCC’s website.