Top 5 Ways to Get a TRV for Canada [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) allows short-term stays in Canada for tourism, business, or family visits. The fastest ways include applying online with complete documents (processing takes 14-30 days), using the CAN+ program for prior Canada/US travelers, or opting for a Super Visa for parents/grandparents. Always check IRCC's latest processing times before applying.

What is a TRV for Canada?

A TRV (Temporary Resident Visa) is an official document placed in your passport showing you meet entry requirements. According to IRCC's visitor visa page{:target="_blank"}, it's required for citizens of visa-required countries who want to visit Canada temporarily.

Key facts:

• Not needed for visa-exempt nationals (e.g., U.S. citizens)
• Typically valid for up to 6 months per stay
• Costs CAD$100 per applicant (free for children under 18)
• Processing takes 14-30 days for online applications

Use Evola AI's Success Predictor{:target="_blank"} to assess your approval odds based on travel history and ties to home country.

Who Needs a TRV to Visit Canada?

Citizens from visa-required countries must obtain a TRV before traveling. IRCC's official country list{:target="_blank"} specifies which nationalities require one.

Exceptions include:

• Diplomatic passport holders
• Travelers with valid Canadian study/work permits
• Those eligible for the CAN+ expedited program

Pro Tip: Even if exempt, consider applying for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) if arriving by air.

What Are the 5 Best Ways to Get a TRV?

1. Standard Online Application

The most common method via IRCC's online portal{:target="_blank"}. Evola AI's document checklist feature helps avoid missing items that cause 42% of rejections.

2. CAN+ Program

Expedited processing (often <7 days) for applicants who:

• Visited Canada/US in last 10 years
• Have no criminal record
• Provide previous visa copies

3. Super Visa (Parents/Grandparents)

Allows multiple entries for up to 5 years per visit. Requires:

• Proof of child/grandchild's Canadian PR/citizenship
• Medical insurance coverage
• Minimum income threshold (LICO + 30%)

4. Business Visitor Visa

For meetings/conferences. Strengthen your application with:

• Invitation letter from Canadian host organization
• Evidence of business activities abroad
• Conference registration proof

5. Visa Application Centre (VAC) Submission

Available in 150+ countries for those preferring in-person support. Fees include:

• CAD$100 visa fee
• VAC service charge (~$30-50)
• Optional biometrics collection

How Much Bank Balance is Required for a TRV?

No fixed amount, but IRCC officers typically expect CAD$1,500-$2,000 per month of stay. According to internal guidelines, strong applications show:

• 4+ months of bank statements
• Consistent income deposits
• Assets like property deeds (translated)
• Sponsorship letters if funds come from Canadian hosts

Evola's AI analyzes your financial docs against successful cases to suggest optimal proof amounts.

Can I Extend My TRV While in Canada?

Yes, by applying for a visitor record before your status expires. Key requirements:

• Submit request 30+ days before current expiry
• Pay CAD$100 extension fee
• Prove continued temporary intent (return tickets, employment letters)

Processing takes ~120 days (as of 2024), but you maintain implied status while waiting.

What Are Common TRV Refusal Reasons?

Based on IRCC's GCMS refusal notes{:target="_blank"}, top causes are:

1. Weak Home Ties (64% of refusals)

   • Solution: Show employment contracts, property ownership, or family dependents

2. Insufficient Funds (22%)

   • Use Evola's CRS Calculator{:target="_blank"} to model different financial scenarios

3. Vague Travel Purpose (11%)

   • Submit detailed itineraries with hotel bookings

4. Previous Overstays (3%)

   • Include explanation letters for any past violations

Ready to Apply?

Whether you're visiting family, exploring Canada's landscapes, or attending business meetings, a well-prepared TRV application makes all the difference. For personalized guidance, try Evola AI's 24/7 immigration assistant to navigate forms, documents, and policy updates with confidence.

Start Your TRV Journey Today →{:target="_blank"}