1. Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)
This visa is for individuals who want to visit Canada for tourism, visiting family or friends, or for business purposes.
- Single-entry visa: Allows you to enter Canada once during the visa's validity period.
- Multiple-entry visa: Allows you to enter and exit Canada multiple times within the visa's validity period (up to 10 years).
- Duration: Typically allows stays of 6 months or less.
2. Study Permit
A study permit is required for individuals who wish to study in Canada for longer than 6 months.
- You must be accepted into a recognized Canadian educational institution.
- It is not a visa itself, but you will receive a study permit along with a temporary resident visa if needed, to enter Canada.
- You may also be allowed to work part-time while studying.
3. Work Visa (Work Permit)
A work permit allows you to work in Canada temporarily.
- Employer-specific work permit: Tied to a specific employer and job position.
- Open work permit: Allows you to work for any employer in Canada (not tied to a specific job or employer).
- Duration: Temporary work permits are usually valid for the duration of your job contract or for a specific period as approved by immigration authorities.
4. Express Entry Visa (Permanent Residency)
The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary method for managing applications for permanent residence for skilled workers.
- It’s based on a points system (Comprehensive Ranking System - CRS), which takes into account factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.
- Categories under Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- If you meet the criteria, you can apply for permanent residency in Canada.
5. Family Sponsorship Visa
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their family members to live in Canada.
- Eligible family members: Spouse, common-law partner, dependent children, parents, and grandparents.
- Permanent residence: This type of visa allows family members to gain permanent residency in Canada.
6. Super Visa (for Parents and Grandparents)
The Super Visa is for parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing them to visit Canada for an extended period (up to 2 years without the need to renew status).
- Applicants must provide proof of financial support and meet other criteria.
7. Transit Visa
If you are traveling through Canada en route to another country and will stay in Canada for a short period (typically less than 48 hours), you may need a transit visa.
8. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
The TRP allows individuals who are inadmissible to Canada (due to criminal convictions or other reasons) to enter Canada temporarily for a specific reason (e.g., business, family emergencies, etc.).
