Temporary resident
Statutory definition
(1) A foreign national becomes a temporary resident if an officer is satisfied that the foreign national has applied for that status, has met the obligations set out in paragraph 20(1)(b), is not inadmissible and is not the subject of a declaration made under subsection 22.1(1).
(2) An intention by a foreign national to become a permanent resident does not preclude them from becoming a temporary resident if the officer is satisfied that they will leave Canada by the end of the period authorized for their stay.
Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, SC 2001, c 27, s 22
Explanation
A temporary resident is a foreign national who has been authorised to enter and remain in Canada for a limited period. The three principal categories of temporary residents are: visitors (who do not need a work or study permit); workers (who hold a work permit issued under IRPR s 200); and students (who hold a study permit issued under IRPR s 216).
Citizens of certain countries require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada; citizens of visa-exempt countries (including the United Kingdom, Australia, and most of the European Union) require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) instead.
How this term is used
A temporary resident must leave Canada by the end of the authorised period of stay. An officer may authorise a specific period, or the period may be determined by the conditions attached to the entry. A temporary resident who wishes to remain longer must apply for an extension before the authorised period expires. A temporary resident who remains beyond the authorised period becomes inadmissible under IRPA s 41.