Canada: New Discretionary Guidelines for Temporary Resident Visas

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has updated its policy regarding Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs), which allow visa-required nationals to enter Canada for tourism, business, study or transit. Previously, TRVs were issued for multiple entries, often with a validity date of 10 years (or the expiry date of the passport if shorter). According to updated guidelines, immigration officers are now encouraged to use their discretion to decide whether to issue a single- or a multiple-entry visa based on the applicant’s individual circumstances, including the purpose of travel, financial stability, medical considerations, and ties to their home country. Furthermore, for multiple-entry visas, officers may decide to issue the visa with a validity period in line with the purpose of entry, as well as other factors such as the applicant’s status in their current country of residence and the economic or political conditions in that country. The change in policy comes amid concerns over housing shortages and a high cost of living, alongside the government’s plan to reduce both permanent and temporary immigration to Canada.