A temporary resident visa is an official document issued by the official of a consulate or embassy. After visa approval, this physical document is attached to the passport, so that the immigration service can see that you are likely to meet all the requirements to stay temporarily in Canada. Under Canadian law, these temporary visas are addressed to “foreigners legally authorized to enter Canada for temporary purposes.” These “foreigners” can belong to one of the following 4 groups: visitors, students, temporary foreign workers and holders of a temporary residence permit. These four groups can stay in Canada on the basis of this visa as a privilege, and not as a right.

Therefore, temporary resident visas are suitable for people who want to come to Canada to spend their vacations, study or work and do not meet the requirements of the eTA. The intention must therefore be to stay in Canada temporarily and not live permanently in Canada.

Tourist visa: This visa is granted to people who want to visit Canada temporarily for tourism. An eTA is normally required to visit Canada as a tourist. However, if you do not meet the requirements for an eTA , you can apply for a tourist visa. You must meet the following requirements for this:

• Have a valid passport
• Be able to show that you have strong personal ties in Spain, at work or with your family. This will give the Canadian immigration service confidence that you will most likely leave Canada again
• Be able to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to cover the costs of your trip, the return trip and your stay in Canada

In addition, you may be required to undergo a medical examination and submit a letter stating that you have been invited by someone living in Canada. When granting a tourist visa, the Canadian immigration service usually automatically issues a visa with which you can visit Canada several times (“multiple entry visa”).