Foreign nationals residing in Canada under temporary status often need to obtain a new Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and have it stamped in their passport without leaving the country. This is a legally regulated process designed to confirm the right to re-enter Canada after international travel.
The procedure requires careful adherence to technical requirements, proper submission of documentation, and compliance with government instructions.
This guide provides a structured explanation of:
- How to apply for a new TRV and obtain visa stamping while remaining inside Canada;
- Technical requirements for the application;
- Correct steps for submitting your passport for stamping;
- Practical recommendations to avoid common errors.
Step-by-Step Legal Process for Obtaining a TRV
1. Creating an Account on the Official IRCC Portal
- All applications must be submitted through the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html
Important: If you previously applied under the CUAET program, that account cannot be used for this type of application. You must create a new account specifically for the TRV application process.
2. Completing the IMM 5257e Application Form
- Download and complete the IMM 5257e form, which is the standard application for temporary resident status, including visitor visas.
Submitting an incomplete or incorrectly filled form may result in automatic refusal of your application.
3. Preparing Supporting Documents
You are required to provide clear, legible digital copies of:
- Passport bio-data page;
- Work or Study Permit (if applicable);
- A recent, compliant photo (taken within the last six months);
- Medical examination results, if applicable based on your status or country of origin.
All documents must meet technical standards and be submitted in accepted formats (PDF, JPEG, etc.).
4. Submitting the Application Through the IRCC Portal
Once your documents are prepared:
- Upload all files to your IRCC account;
- Complete all sections of the online questionnaire;
- Submit your application for processing.
IRCC may request additional documents or information during the review process.
5. Receiving the Passport Request for Visa Stamping
If your application is approved:
- You will receive an Original Passport Request (OPR)—an official letter with detailed instructions for mailing your passport for visa stamping.
Requirements for Mailing Your Passport for Visa Stamping
- Passports are accepted by mail only; in-person submissions are not permitted.
Purchase Two ExpressPost Envelopes:
- One large letter-size envelope;
- One smaller standard-size envelope with your return mailing address.
Packaging Instructions:
- Place the following items in the large envelope:
- Your passport;
- The original Passport Request letter;
- The smaller self-addressed return envelope.
6. Official Mailing Address for Visa Stamping:
mathematica
CopyEdit
Temporary Resident Visa Section
CPC-Ottawa (e-application)
PO Box 9640
Ottawa, Ontario
K1G 6T2
Additional Recommendations:
- Photograph or document the tracking barcodes on both envelopes;
- Track the delivery status using the postal service;
- Monitor updates in your IRCC account throughout the process.
Practical Tips to Avoid Mistakes
- Always use the latest version of the IMM 5257e form;
- Do not attempt to reuse your CUAET account for standard TRV applications—create a new one;
- Apply well in advance if your previous visa has expired or is expiring soon;
- Double-check all documents before mailing your passport to avoid processing delays.
Conclusion
Obtaining a new Temporary Resident Visa and having it stamped in your passport while inside Canada is a regulated legal process that requires careful attention to instructions and deadlines.
The key points are:
- Applications must be submitted via the official IRCC portal;
- Supporting documents must meet all technical and legal requirements;
- Passports are accepted for stamping strictly by mail, not in person;
- Tracking and monitoring your application ensures a smooth process.
Adhering to these legal procedures helps prevent delays, refusals, or complications and ensures you have the necessary documentation to travel internationally and return to Canada without immigration issues.
