Canada Clarifies Transit Visa Rules For Temporary Residents

Canada has issued important clarifications regarding the eligibility for transit visas for foreign nationals who are temporary residents. If you’re passing through Canada without it being your final destination, it’s crucial to understand the rules and requirements, especially if you need a visa solely for transit purposes.

What is a Canada Transit Visa?

A Canada transit visa is a fee-exempt temporary resident visa required for individuals from visa-required countries who are ineligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This visa allows travellers to transit through Canada on their way to another country, without actually entering Canada.

If you’re from a visa-exempt country, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for transiting through Canada by air. It is valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Understanding the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

Canadian visa offices issue a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and place it in your passport to confirm that you meet the admission requirements for temporary residency in Canada.

However, it’s essential to note that holding a TRV does not guarantee entry into Canada. Entry is at the discretion of officers from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) upon your arrival at a Canadian port of entry.

Eligibility for a Canadian Transit Visa

To be eligible for a transit visa, foreign nationals must:

• Show proof of transiting through Canada between two international flights within 48 hours or less.
• Be a passenger on an international flight that makes a stop in Canada on its way to another country.
• Hold a valid visa for the destination country.

When applying for a transit visa, travellers must also convince the immigration officer that their sole purpose is to transit through Canada.

Single or Multiple-Entry Transit Visas

Canada offers single-entry and double-entry transit visas, and the best part is they are completely free. While applicants are required to provide biometrics, these are also exempt from any fees, making the process more accessible for travellers.

Key Requirements for Transit Visa Holders

• Purpose of Transit: Travelers must convince Canadian immigration officials that their sole purpose is to transit through Canada.
• Visa Type: Transit visas are issued as single or two-entry visas.
• Biometrics: Biometric information is required, but there are fee exemptions for transit visas.

U.S. Transit Exemption

There is an exemption for travellers with valid U.S. non-immigrant visas or temporary resident visas. If you’re transiting through Canada to or from the United States for less than 48 hours, you do not need to provide biometrics.

Transit Without Visa Program & China Transit Program

Canada offers additional exemptions under the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) Program and the China Transit Program. These allow certain foreign nationals to transit through Canada on their way to or from the U.S. without needing a Canadian transit visa, as long as they meet specific criteria.

Final Words

If you’re planning to transit through Canada, make sure you’re fully aware of these updated rules to avoid any travel disruptions. Always double-check your visa and entry requirements based on your nationality and travel route.

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