As an international student, and depending on your nationality, you may either require a VISA or eTA at the airport to request entry to Canada.
Find out if you need a VISA or eTA to enter Canada
TRV: A sticker on your passport, usually with the same expiry date as your study permit. It must be valid when you enter Canada but can expire while you're in the country. If you leave and want to return, you need a valid TRV.
- eTA: Linked to your passport number and valid for 5 years.
- American (US) citizens or permanent residents do not need either
Maintaining a valid TRV can be helpful for emergencies that require you to travel home and return to Canada.
Students apply online for TRV; once approved, IRCC will sends instructions how and where to mail-in your passport.
eTA holders do not require renewal of their digital eTA until 5 years passes or changing passport.
Before You Begin
Access IRCC to review the process.
Things to remember when applying:
- Check your passport expiry date
- Review TRV tutorial available on this page
- Gather the required documents
- Attend an Immigration drop-in session to have your application reviewed.
You can apply for visa renewal (TRV) within Canada only after renewal of your study permit.
Family members apply for a Canadian VISA based on their own merits. Student can support family members application by providing them with:
- Draft a Letter of Invitation as per IRCC template
- Student confirmation of Enrollment
- If graduating, request confirmation of convocation
- A copy of student study permit
- US Visas
- US Visa Presentation (US Consulate General - Vancouver)