Understand Temporary Residency in Canada: Everything You Need to Know
When it comes to visiting or working in Canada, understanding the concepts and processes surrounding temporary residency is crucial. This guide aims to provide you with all the essential information to navigate the requirements and legalize your temporary stay in Canada.
What is Temporary Residency?
Temporary residency is an immigration status granted by Canada's immigration officers to foreign nationals, allowing them to stay in the country for a limited period. This status is not permanent and contrasts with permanent residency, which offers indefinite stay rights.
As a temporary resident, you must adhere to the terms and conditions imposed by Canadian immigration officers, such as the duration of your stay, work authorization (if applicable), and study permissions.
Types of Temporary Residents
There are three primary categories of temporary residents:
1. Visitors
Visitors can enter Canada for various reasons, such as:
B1 Business Visitor: Engaging in international business activities without entering the Canadian labor market or gaining wages or commissions. B2 Business Visitor: Staying in Canada for non-work or study purposes, like tourism, vacations, or visiting friends and family.Upon entry, visitors are typically granted a 6-month stay, though the actual duration can vary based on documents received (visa stamp or Visitor Record).
2. Workers
Workers are allowed to enter Canada to engage in paid work activities. Some key points to consider:
Offers of employment must be for a temporary period, usually not exceeding 3 years. If your passport expires before the job term, your immigration officer might set your Work Permit to expire on your passport's expiration date.3. Students
Students can enter Canada to pursue academic, professional, vocational, or other educational programs. Key considerations:
study programs should not exceed 4 years. if your passport expires before your program ends, your immigration officer might set your Study Permit to expire on your passport's expiration date.Applying for Temporary Residency
To acquire temporary residency, you need to apply to the Canadian government. There are several ways to apply, including online, in person, or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC) outside of Canada.
Where to Apply
- Online: Via the Government of Canada's website (IRCC) for those residing in Canada.
- In Person: At a port of entry (air, sea, or land) for those requiring a TRV or eTA.
- At Visa Application Centres (VACs) outside of Canada for non-residents.
- At Case Processing Centre (CPC) offices for permanent residents inside Canada.
Duration of Stay
The duration of your stay varies depending on the type of temporary resident status you have. Here are the typical stay periods:
Visitors: Usually 6 months, based on the stamp or Visitor Record. Workers: For the duration of their job offer, not exceeding 3 years. Students: For the duration of their program, generally not exceeding 4 years.However, the actual duration might be shorter if your passport expires before your desired stay period.
Application Processing Times
The processing times for temporary residency applications can vary, but the Government of Canada provides estimated times online. These estimates are based on past performance and may not reflect the exact duration of your application.
If you have compelling reasons to expedite your application, you might be selected for priority processing. Currently, the Government does not offer an option to pay for priority processing.
Extending Temporary Residency
To extend your stay, you must apply inside Canada before your current temporary residency status expires. You cannot apply after your status has ended.
If your application is submitted before the expiry but you exceed the allowed stay, you may be granted "implied status," but you must adhere to the original conditions of your stay.
Application Costs
The cost of a temporary residency application varies depending on the type of status or visa you are applying for:
Tourist Visitor Visa: $100 CAD. Student Visa (Study Permit): $150 CAD. Work Visa (Work Permit): $155 CAD.Other fees may apply for additional services, required documentation, or medical examinations.
Conclusion
Navigating the process of obtaining and maintaining temporary residency in Canada can be complex. By familiarizing yourself with the different categories, application methods, and duration of stay, you can ensure a smoother entry and stay in this beautiful country.