What is the difference between a temporary resident visa and a temporary resident permit?

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) are both documents that allow foreign nationals to enter Canada temporarily. However, they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics:

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV):

1. Purpose: A TRV, often referred to as a visitor visa, is primarily intended for individuals who wish to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or other temporary purposes.
2. Eligibility: To obtain a TRV, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including demonstrating that they have sufficient ties to their home country and intend to leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay. They may also need to provide proof of funds to cover their expenses during their visit.
3. Validity: TRVs are typically issued for up to 6 months, but they can be granted for shorter or longer durations based on the purpose of the visit. Multiple-entry TRVs allow visitors to enter Canada multiple times during the validity period, while single-entry TRVs permit one entry.
4. Application Process: The application for a TRV can be submitted online or at a Visa Application Center (VAC) or Canadian consulate/embassy in the applicant’s home country.
5. Visa Exemptions: Citizens of visa-exempt countries do not require a TRV to enter Canada for short visits. However, they may need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) if traveling by air.

Temporary Resident Permit (TRP):

1. Purpose: A TRP is designed for individuals who are otherwise inadmissible to Canada due to criminal convictions, medical conditions, or other reasons but have a justifiable need to enter the country temporarily. It is considered an exception and is issued at the discretion of Canadian immigration authorities.
2. Eligibility: TRPs are typically granted in cases where applicants can demonstrate a compelling reason for their visit to Canada despite their inadmissibility. This may include urgent family matters, business obligations, or humanitarian reasons.
3. Validity: TRPs are usually issued for a specific period that aligns with the applicant’s intended purpose in Canada. They can be for single or multiple entries.
4. Application Process: The application for a TRP involves more rigorous documentation, including details of the inadmissibility issue, the reasons for the visit, and evidence to support the application. It is often recommended to seek legal advice when applying for a TRP.
5. Review Process: TRP applications undergo a thorough review by immigration authorities, who assess the applicant’s criminal rehabilitation, need for the visit, and any potential risks.

In summary, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is a standard document for temporary visitors to Canada, while a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is an exception made for individuals who would typically be inadmissible. TRPs are granted on a case-by-case basis, primarily for compelling reasons, and are subject to more stringent documentation and review processes. TRVs, on the other hand, are for routine temporary visits and are generally available to eligible applicants who meet specific criteria.