Canada is a top destination for international students, skilled workers, and tourists looking to explore its vibrant cities and stunning landscapes. Understanding the different types of visas, permits, and entry requirements is crucial for a smooth experience. This guide answers common questions about Canadian visas and provides essential insights for those planning to visit, study, or work in Canada.
Understanding the Difference: Visa vs. Permit
A key distinction to understand is the difference between a visa and a permit. Many newcomers assume these terms are interchangeable, but they serve different purposes:
- Visa: A visa grants permission to enter Canada. There are different types of visas, including work, study, and visitor visas, all categorized under Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs). Some travelers may instead need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) based on their nationality.
- Permit: A permit allows an individual to work or study in Canada for a specified period. Holding a valid permit does not automatically grant the right to re-enter Canada; a valid visa or eTA is required for that purpose.
Types of Work and Study Permits in Canada
Work Permits
Canada offers two main types of work permits:
- Open Work Permit (OWP): This allows the holder to work for any employer in Canada (with a few exceptions) without requiring a specific job offer.
- Closed Work Permit (Employer-Specific Work Permit): This is tied to a particular employer and often requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the position.
Study Permits
A study permit allows international students to pursue academic programs at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada. While a study permit enables students to live and study in Canada, they may also be eligible to work part-time during their studies.
Visa and eTA Payment Methods
Many applicants wonder whether they can pay for their visas or eTAs in their local currency. In most cases, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website provides information on visa offices processing applications by country, detailing payment methods available.
Applying for a Visa or eTA Alongside a Work/Study Permit
Applicants do not need to apply separately for a visa or eTA when submitting a study or work permit application. If the application is approved, a visa or eTA is issued automatically. However, the applicant must submit their passport to a Canadian visa office to receive the required document.
Can I Leave Canada and Re-Enter with My Visa?
Canada issues single-entry and multiple-entry visas:
- Single-entry visa: Holders must apply for a new visa to return to Canada unless they are traveling to the United States, St. Pierre, and Miquelon, and return before their approved stay expires.
- Multiple-entry visa: Allows visa holders to leave and return to Canada multiple times during its validity period.
How to Check the Expiry of Your Temporary Resident Status
For Work and Study Permit Holders
The expiry date of a permit is mentioned on the document. However, sometimes, a visa or eTA expires before the permit. In such cases, individuals may need to apply for an extension or renewal before their temporary status lapses.
For Tourists
Visitors entering Canada receive a passport stamp with an entry date. If no specific expiry date is mentioned, the default period of stay is six months from the arrival date.
Using a Visa from an Old Passport
If a valid visa is in an old passport, travelers can still use it for entry by presenting both the old and new passports at the border. However, IRCC recommends applying for a new visa in the updated passport to prevent delays or complications at immigration checkpoints.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the Canadian visa process can be complex, but understanding the basics of visas, permits, and entry requirements ensures a smooth journey. Whether you’re a student, worker, or visitor, staying informed about the latest regulations and processing requirements will help you prepare effectively for your time in Canada. If you have further questions, consulting a qualified immigration professional or the official IRCC website is always advisable.
