Temporary Residence in Canada: The Options Available to Visit, Study or Work

Temporary residence status allows you to stay in Canada for a period of time for temporary purposes.

If you meet all the admissibility requirements to enter or remain in Canada as a visitor, student, or worker, then you have temporary resident status.

What are the Different Types of Temporary Residence Options Available to You?

There are different types of temporary residence programs available based on your specific situations:

Visitor Visa: A visitor visa is required by most foreign visitors wishing to enter Canada. A visitor visa can be issued for single or multiple entries. Most visitors can stay in Canada for up to 6 months, however, It is possible to extend your stay.

A single-entry visitor visa allows you to enter Canada only one time during the validity period. Multiple entry visitor visas allow you to reenter Canada many times during the validity period.

Another name for a ‘Visitor Visa’ is the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) If you are from a visa-exempt country, then you don’t need to apply for a TRV.

Study Permits: A study permit is required if you want to study at a Canadian institution. You can apply to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for a study permit if you want to enroll in a Canadian designated learning institution.

Work Permits: Temporary work permits are required if you wish to work in Canada for a period of time. The validity and type of work permit issued is based on your eligibility and whether a job offer is required. 

Open Work Permits: Open work permits are issued to individuals exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Open work permits allow you to work in Canada for any employer and in any location.

Super Visa: As a parent and grandparent of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, you can apply for a Super Visa. Super Visas allow you to live with your child or grandchild for an extended period. You can stay in Canada for up to 2 years without the need to apply for an extension. 

Business Visitor: As a business visitor, you are authorized to stay in Canada with the purpose of engaging in international business activities that do not directly contribute to the Canadian labour market.

Temporary Residence for World Athletes, Coaches, and Related Occupations: Canadian Temporary Visa Requirements for World Athletes, Coaches and Related Occupations depends on the purpose of their visit. You do not need to acquire a work permit if you are visiting Canada as a professional athlete or coach to participate in sporting activities or events. A visitor visa is sufficient.

Temporary Resident Permit: Temporary resident permits (TRP) could be granted if you are inadmissible or are denied entry to Canada, however your reason to travel to Canada needs to outweigh the risks of your inadmissibility.

Visa Extensions: Visa extensions are required if your current status as a visitor, study permit holder, or work permit holder is about to expire. You should apply for an extension 30 days before the date of expiration.