Quick answer: a visitor visa (also called a temporary resident visa or TRV) is the official document IRCC places in your passport so you can travel to Canada as a tourist, to visit family or for business. Most travellers need a visitor visa; some nationalities can apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) instead when flying. At Linda Salas & Associates, we help you identify which document you need and prepare a complete application.
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Visitor visa or eTA: which one do I need?
According to IRCC, the document you need depends on the type of travel document you will use, the country that issued it, your nationality and how you will travel to Canada. Some nationalities can apply for an eTA instead of a visa when flying and meeting certain requirements.
Services we offer
- Tourist visa (TRV)
- Family visit visa
- Business visitor visa
- Multiple-entry visa
- eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
- Super Visa for parents and grandparents
- Extending your stay (visitor record) and change of status
What are the general requirements?
IRCC states that, to get a visitor visa, you must:
- have a valid travel document, like a passport;
- be in good health;
- have no criminal or immigration-related convictions;
- convince an immigration officer that you have ties (such as a job, home, financial assets or family) that will take you back to your home country;
- convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit;
- have enough money for your stay.
In some cases, a medical exam or a letter of invitation from someone who lives in Canada may also be required.
How long can I stay in Canada?
Most visitors can stay for up to 6 months. The border services officer decides at the port of entry and may allow a shorter or longer stay. If you want to stay longer, you need to apply for a visitor record, which is not a visa.
How we help
- Assessment: we review your profile, the purpose of your trip and your immigration history.
- Strategy: we identify the document you need and how to show your ties to your home country.
- Documents: you get a personalized checklist and we review every document, including invitation letters and financial proof.
- Application: we prepare forms and letters and submit your application.
- Follow-up: we support you until a decision is made and guide you if you need to extend your stay.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not clearly showing ties to your home country.
- Submitting incomplete or hard-to-verify financial information.
- Not clearly explaining the purpose and length of the trip.
- Reapplying after a refusal without understanding the reasons.
Why choose Linda Salas & Associates?
- Led by Linda Salas, Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC R510397). You can verify her registration with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants.
- More than 18 years of experience in Canadian immigration.
- Service in English and Spanish.
- Rated 4.7 across more than 280 Google reviews.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a visitor visa valid?
A visa officer decides. According to IRCC, it can be valid for up to 10 years, or until your passport or biometrics expire, whichever comes first.
Do I need a letter of invitation?
In some cases, yes, for example if you are visiting family or friends who live in Canada. We help you prepare it correctly.
Can I extend my stay in Canada?
Yes, by applying for a visitor record before your authorized stay ends. We review your case and tell you when and how to apply.
My visa was refused before. Can I apply again?
Yes, but it’s important to first understand and address the reasons for the refusal. We analyze your case before submitting a new application.
Do you guarantee approval?
No. No one can guarantee an approval: the decision belongs to IRCC. Our job is to prepare your application as completely and strongly as possible.
Ready to plan your visit?
Tell us about your situation and we’ll tell you which document you need.
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Official sources: IRCC – Visitor visa; IRCC – Eligibility; IRCC – Extend your stay. Last reviewed: November 2026. This page is for information only and does not replace individual advice.