Canada TRV at a glance
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is required for many nationals to enter Canada as a visitor (tourism, family visit, business).
Required documents
- Passport – valid for at least the duration of your stay
- Application form – IMM 5257 (Visitor Visa)
- Passport-style photo – Canada photo specifications
- Proof of funds – bank statements (often 4–6 months), enough to cover your trip
- Purpose of travel letter – why you are going and what you will do
- Travel itinerary – dates, places, and (if relevant) accommodation
- Proof of accommodation – hotel bookings or invitation from host
Situation-based documents
- Employed – employment letter, leave approval, payslips
- Visiting family/friend – invitation letter from host in Canada (with their status and proof of address)
- Self-employed – business registration, tax documents, bank statements
Tips that help
- Ties to home country – job, family, property; show you will return
- Travel history – previous visas and compliance help
- No unexplained large deposits – explain any big sums in your account
If you have no travel history
Canada often asks for an explanation. A short letter saying this is your first trip, why now, and that you will return by X date can help. Use our Letter of Explanation or Ties to Home Country template.