FREQUENT QUESTIONS ASKED FOR TEMPORARY VISAS
Immigration law
11 Mar
Work, study, and tourist visas are like the golden tickets of the immigration journey for those who need them. In this article, we will cover the most frequently asked questions by about visas – because who doesn’t love a good FAQ, especially when it involves paperwork?
Another burning question that needs clearing up: what is the difference between a visa and a permit? It’s like asking what the difference is between a passport and a plane ticket is Eh! Trust me, there is a big one.
Permits grant legal status to the holder, outlining what they can do in the country and for how long. These essential documents allow foreign nationals to work, study, and live in Canada for the duration of their permit's validity, clearly defining their rights and activities during that time.
On the other hand, Visas essentially grant holders the power to cross a border, serving as proof that they’ve been granted legal status and are authorized to enter or re-enter Canada. Work, study, and visitor visas (the ones tourists use to visit Canada) are commonly referred to as temporary resident visas (TRVs).
However, for those lucky enough to have a passport that does not require a TRV (thanks to their nationality), you will likely need an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead. It's like a VIP pass, but for travel – no red carpet, though!!!
There are two types of temporary resident visas: single-entry and multiple-entry visas.
Temporary residents (such as students, workers, and tourists) with a single-entry visa will need to apply for a new visa if they want to re-enter Canada. The same conditions apply to those trying to re-enter Canada with an expired visitor visa. However, you can use your original single-entry visa to return under certain conditions:
- if you're traveling to the United States, St. Pierre, or Miquelon
- plan to return to Canada before your approved stay ends.
On the other hand, temporary residents with a multiple-entry visa can come and go from Canada as often as they like, like the ultimate 'in-and-out' privileges, as long as it’s within the validity period of their visa.
Many people moving to Canada can pay for their visas or eTAs in their own currency. To check if this is true for you, visit the IRCC website to find out which visa office will handle your immigration application based on where you live. This will help you figure out if you can pay in your local currency.
When applying for a work or study permit, the IRCC recommends not applying for an eTA or visa at the same time, depending on your citizenship. If you are approved for a work or study permit, the eTA or visa will be issued along with it. Also, if you need a work or study visa, you will have to send your passport to a Canadian visa office to get the visa stamped in your passport.
If you have received a new passport, but your valid visa is in your old one, you can still use the visa in your old passport to enter Canada. To do so, you will need to bring both your old passport (with the valid visa) and your new valid passport or travel document.
While this approach is allowed, the IRCC recommends that newcomers try to obtain a new visa in their valid passport to avoid any potential delays at the border. Additionally, you might need to explain why your old passport or travel document is no longer valid. Just make sure your story is more convincing than "I left it in my other jacket" - the border officers might not buy that one!
If you are a newcomer in Canada on a work or study permit, you must check the document to see when your temporary resident status will expire. It's always good to know when the clock is ticking.
In some situations, your visa or eTA may expire before your temporary resident status does. This could happen if your visitor record or permit shows a longer stay. In such cases, you might need to apply for an extension of your visa or renew your eTA to maintain your legal status in Canada.
For tourists entering Canada, a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer will stamp your passport with a note or give you a new document showing your entry date. Think of it as a souvenir that says, 'Welcome to Canada' - but with way more authority.
Officers may also include a small note beneath the stamp that specifies the exact date your temporary status will end. If there is no stamp, note, or new document in your passport, your temporary status will automatically expire six months from the date you arrived in Canada.
RRM Law can assist newcomers to Canada by offering expert legal advice and guidance on immigration matters, including work and study permits, visas, and eTAs. You can get help to ensure that your application process goes smoothly, providing support in understanding expiration dates, document requirements, and extensions.
If you encounter any challenges, like needing to renew your visa or explain issues with your passport, RRM Law can offer professional advice and help resolve any legal concerns, with their expertise, you can feel confident that your immigration journey is in good hands.
Book consultation with immigration lawyer in Brampton today!