If you are planning to travel to Canada, you may be wondering about the requirements for entering the country. Two common documents that allow foreign nationals to enter Canada for a temporary stay are a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). In this blog post, we will explore the differences between these two documents, as well as the process for obtaining them.
What is a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)?
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is a paper document that is placed in your passport. It is issued to foreign nationals who wish to enter Canada for a temporary stay, such as tourism, study, or work. A TRV is required for citizens of certain countries, while others may be exempt. The list of countries whose citizens require a TRV can be found on the Government of Canada's website.
To obtain a TRV, you must submit an application, which can be done online or on paper. The application requires personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and passport details, as well as information about your purpose of travel, your financial situation, and your ties to your home country. You may also need to provide additional documents, such as a letter of invitation or proof of your enrolment in a study program.
What is an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?
An electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an electronic document that is linked to your passport. It is required for foreign nationals who are visa-exempt and wish to enter Canada by air. The list of countries whose citizens are eligible for an eTA can also be found on the Government of Canada's website or here on VisaCake.
To obtain an eTA, you must apply online. The application requires personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and passport details, as well as information about your purpose of travel, your financial situation, and your ties to your home country. You may also need to provide additional documents, such as a letter of invitation or proof of your enrolment in a study program.
What are the differences between a TRV and an eTA?
The main difference between a TRV and an eTA is that a TRV is a paper document that is placed in your passport, while an eTA is an electronic document that is linked to your passport. Additionally, a TRV is required for citizens of certain countries, while an eTA is required for citizens of other countries who are visa-exempt and wish to enter Canada by air.
Another difference is the processing time. A TRV application can take several weeks or even months to process, while an eTA application can usually be processed within minutes.
Finally, a TRV allows you to enter Canada for a temporary stay, while an eTA is only valid for short-term visits. If you wish to study, work, or stay in Canada for an extended period, you will need to obtain a different type of visa or permit.
In summary, if you are planning to travel to Canada, you may need to obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), depending on your country of citizenship and your mode of transportation. Both documents require an application and personal information and may also require additional documents depending on your purpose of travel. It is important to carefully review the requirements and application process to ensure a smooth entry into Canada.
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