Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) vs. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): Know the Differences

Sep 15, 2023 / 2 min readShreya Udani

Temporary Resident Visa vs. Permit: Know the Distinctions

Many people confuse the Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) and the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) because both allow temporary entry into Canada. However, they serve very different purposes.
Choosing the right one depends on your situation, eligibility, and reason for visiting Canada.
Below is a simple breakdown to help you understand the key differences.

Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)

A TRP allows someone who is inadmissible to Canada to enter the country for a justified reason.
It is designed for special situations where the need to enter Canada outweighs the risks.

Eligibility

You may qualify for a TRP if Canada considers you inadmissible for reasons such as criminality, medical concerns, or past immigration violations.

Ineligibility

You cannot apply for a TRP if:

  • Your refugee claim is being processed
  • Your refugee claim was refused in the last 12 months
  • You qualify for a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA)

Application Process

You can apply at:

  • A Canadian visa office before traveling, or
  • A border or airport (Point of Entry)

Required Documentation

You must show:

  • A clear and necessary reason for entering Canada
  • That the benefit of allowing your entry outweighs any risk
  • That you will leave Canada when your permit expires
  • That you will not work or study without legal permission
  • That you will follow all Canadian laws

Validity

TRPs can last from one day to three years, depending on the officer’s decision.

Single or Multiple Entry

Officers decide whether your TRP allows one entry or several.

Renewal

You cannot renew a TRP.
You must leave Canada and apply again.

Cost

The fee for a TRP is $200 CAD per person.

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

A TRV is a sticker placed in your passport that shows you meet Canada’s entry requirements as a temporary visitor, student, or worker.

Eligibility

Most foreign nationals need a TRV unless they are visa-exempt.

Application Process

You must apply before entering Canada.
Unlike a TRP, you cannot get a TRV at the border.

Required Documentation

You must prove that you:

  • Plan to leave Canada at the end of your stay
  • Have enough money to support yourself
  • Will not work or study without authorization
  • Have no criminal history
  • Are in good health
  • Will follow all Canadian laws

Single or Multiple Entry

Officers may issue either option depending on your travel needs.

Renewal

You can renew a TRV from inside Canada if needed.

Cost

The fee for a TRV is $100 CAD per person.

TRP vs. TRV: The Simple Difference

  • A TRP is for people who are inadmissible but still need to enter Canada for a valid reason.
  • A TRV is for people who are admissible and want to visit, study, or work temporarily.

Both documents have different requirements, costs, and approval procedures.
Therefore, choosing the correct option is essential for a smooth entry into Canada.

Need Help Choosing the Right Option?

SPS Canada Immigration can help you understand which temporary entry option suits your situation.
We review your case carefully and guide you through each step so you can visit Canada confidently.

Visit www.spscanada.com for expert assistance.
Your Canadian dream is possible—let us help you achieve it.

 

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