Overview of Temporary Residence Visas

Temporary residence visas provide a legal framework for individuals and families to visit, study, or work in a foreign country for a limited duration. These visas cater to various needs, such as tourism, family visits, education, and employment. The primary categories include Visitor Visas, Super Visas, Study Permits, Post Graduate Work Permits, Temporary Resident Permits, and Work Permits, each serving distinct purposes and requirements. Understanding these options is crucial for applicants to choose the appropriate visa type based on their intentions and circumstances.

Visitor Visa and Super Visa

A Visitor Visa, or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows individuals to enter a country temporarily for activities like tourism, family visits, or business. It is usually valid for six months, with options for single or multiple entries. Extensions can be requested for prolonged stays, requiring proof of financial stability and valid reasons for the extension. The Super Visa, specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, offers multiple entries over ten years, with each visit lasting up to five years and can be extended for up to two more years. Applicants must meet income requirements and have Canadian medical insurance coverage of $100,000  for at least one year.

​Open Work Permits and Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) based Work Permits 

Open Work Permits authorize foreign nationals to work in  Canada for any employer for a specific period. On the other hand, LMIA-based work permits authorize foreign nationals to work for a specific occupation and a designated employer in the host country. These permits often require a job offer and are tied to the employer’s ability to demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the local labor market. The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a critical document for many work permit applications. It verifies the need for a foreign worker and ensures that no local workers are available to fill the position, maintaining the balance in the domestic job market. A positive LMIA supports the work permit application, enabling the foreign national to legally work in the host country.

Study Permits and Post Graduate Work Permits

Study Permits enable international students to pursue education at designated learning institutions in Canada. Requirements include an acceptance letter, proof of funds, GIC , proof of medical exams . If students need more time to complete their studies, they can apply for extensions by proving continued enrollment and academic progress. Post Graduate Work Permits (PGWP) allow graduates to work in Canada for up to three years,  gaining valuable work experience. The duration of the PGWP depends upon the number of years of education , the student had in Canada.  The PGWP is an open permit, providing flexibility in employment opportunities, contingent on the length and level of the completed study program.