If you’re an international student or recent graduate in Canada, you may eventually need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to travel and re-enter the country. Many students mistakenly believe that their study permit or PGWP automatically allows travel — but that is not true.
This guide explains exactly how to apply for TRV inside Canada, the required documents, processing times, fees, and tips to avoid refusal.

What Is a TRV (Temporary Resident Visa)?

A TRV is a counterfoil (sticker) placed in your passport that allows you to enter or re-enter Canada.
It does not give you status in Canada — your study permit or PGWP controls your ability to stay, work, and study.

You need a TRV if:

• You’ll travel outside Canada (except the U.S. in some cases)
• You want to re-enter Canada as a student or worker
• Your old TRV has expired

Do Students and PGWP Holders Need a TRV?

Study Permit Holders

• You need a TRV to come back to Canada after travel (only if your old Student TRV is expired).
• A study permit alone is not valid for re-entry.

PGWP Holders (Open Work Permit)

• You also need a valid TRV to return to Canada.
• The work permit itself does not allow entry — you must have a valid TRV.

Eligibility to Apply for TRV Inside Canada

You can apply from inside Canada if you have:

• A valid Study Permit OR
• A valid PGWP / Work Permit
• A valid passport
• No travel bans or inadmissibility issues

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for TRV Inside Canada

The process is done completely online through IRCC.

Step 1: Create or Log In to Your IRCC Account

Go to:
👉 IRCC Secure Account (GCKey or Sign-In Partner)

Choose:
✔ “Apply to come to Canada”
✔ “Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor Visa) – from inside Canada”

Step 2: Fill Out the TRV Application Form (IMM 5257)

Fill in:

• Personal details
• Travel history
• Employment details
• Purpose of visit (mostly “returning student” or “temporary worker returning”)

Your purpose of travel should be:
➡️ “Re-entry to Canada as a student”
OR
➡️ “Re-entry to Canada as a worker”

Step 3: Collect Your Supporting Documents

This is the most important part of the application.

 Required Documents for Students

• Passport (all pages)
• Digital photo
• Study Permit
• Official Enrollment Letter / Confirmation of Enrolment
• Transcript or proof of continued studies
• Recent bank statements / proof of funds
• Tuition payment receipt (optional but useful)

 Required Documents for PGWP Holders

• Passport (all pages)
• Digital photo
• Open Work Permit (PGWP)
• Pay stubs (last 3 months)
• Job offer letter or employment letter
• Bank statements
• Resume (optional)

Step 4: Pay the Application Fees

Fees for TRV inside Canada:

If you gave biometrics for your student visa within the last 10 years, you don’t need to give them again.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

After uploading documents and paying the fee, submit your application.

You will receive:

• Confirmation email
• Messages on IRCC account

Step 6: Send Your Passport for Visa Stamping

If approved, you will get:
✔ Passport Request Letter (PPR)
✔ Instructions for sending your passport to the Visa Office (Ottawa)

You will send:

• Your original passport
• A copy of the letter
• A prepaid return envelope

Processing takes around 2–4 weeks after passport is received.

⏳ TRV Processing Times Inside Canada (2025 Update)

Processing times change often, but typically:

• Student TRV: 2–6 weeks
• Worker TRV (PGWP): 2–5 weeks
• Passport stamping: 2–4 weeks

Check IRCC’s real-time processing tool for the latest update.

Can You Travel While TRV Is Processing?

No, you should not leave Canada while your TRV is being processed.
If you leave, you may not be able to re-enter unless:

• You are returning directly from the U.S., AND
• Your study/work permit is still valid

You will still need a TRV for any other international travel.

Reasons TRV Applications Get Refused

Common reasons for refusal:
❌ Insufficient funds
❌ Gaps in studies
❌ No proof of employment (PGWP)
❌ Passport expiring soon
❌ Missing documents
❌ Poor travel history explanation

🎯 Tips to Improve Approval Chances

✔ Upload stronger proof of funds than required
✔ Include a Letter of Explanation (LOE)
✔ Make sure your study permit or PGWP is valid for at least 6+ months
✔ Provide proof of ties to Canada (classes, job, rent, etc.)
✔ Be consistent with previous applications

Final Thoughts

Applying for a TRV from inside Canada is a straightforward process — as long as your documents are strong and your status is valid. Whether you’re a student or a PGWP holder, ensure you apply before making any travel plans.