What is the difference between a temporary resident visa and a temporary resident permit?

An electronic travel authorization, or eTA is a document that is designed to simplify the process of entering Canada by air. When presented to an immigration official at a port of entry, it allows travellers to enter Canada an unlimited number of times for up to six months per visit. Your eTA is electronically linked to your passport, which means it can only be used with the same passport that is listed on your eTA confirmation.

Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada (IRCC) deems certain persons inadmissible to Canada on the grounds of criminality or health, or if they are deemed a threat to Canadian security. Inadmissible individuals will, in most cases, not be issued with a TRV and they will be denied entry to Canada.

From time to time, however, an immigration officer may find that the individual has a compelling reason to be in Canada, and a temporary resident permit will be issued in spite of the inadmissibility. Examples of circumstances in which a temporary resident permit might be issued include serious illness or death of a close family member, or pressing business matters that require the presence of the individual.

Temporary resident permits may be issued to individuals who are under a removal order. This can happen when it is not possible immediately enforce the removal order, or if the applicant can show a need to remain in Canada. In these circumstances, the temporary resident permit does not negate the removal order, nor does it allow for a restoration of status.

What are the eligibility criteria for a temporary resident permit?

A temporary resident permit may be issued to an applicant who meets all of the following criteria:

• The applicant would normally be deemed inadmissible to enter or remain in Canada, and is not eligible for a restoration of status
• The immigration officer is satisfied that the applicant has a genuine need to be in Canada
• The immigration officer is satisfied that the applicant’s need to be in Canada outweighs the risk of his or her presence to Canada and Canadians
• The applicant pays a non-refundable fee of $200

What terms and conditions apply to a temporary resident permit?

If you hold a temporary resident permit, you must abide by the following conditions:

• If you are outside of Canada and your temporary resident permit allows re-entry to Canada, you must apply to your local Canadian visa office for a counterfoil that will allow you to re-enter Canada.
• Once in Canada, you must leave before the permit expires. The permit can be valid for anywhere between one day and three years, depending on the circumstances.
• The permit does not allow re-entry to Canada once you have left.

Can my temporary resident permit be renewed?

In general, the temporary resident permit is valid for a limited time that depends on the circumstances. Once you have left Canada, you cannot use your temporary resident permit to re-enter unless otherwise stated. In some cases, you may be able to apply for an extension as long as you do so at least thirty days prior to the expiry date on your permit.

Can temporary resident permit holders apply for permanent residence?

If you are a protected temporary resident – a status generally granted to refugees – you can become a permanent resident of Canada at no cost when your application has been processed, as long as you are deemed to be admissible, and if you meet the requirements for continuous residence. Note that if you leave and re-enter Canada while you hold a temporary resident permit, this continuity is broken and you may be deemed ineligible for permanent residence.