A temporary resident / visitor visa is an official document stamped in your passport. It shows that you meet the requirements needed to travel to Canada.

Most travelers require a visitor visa to travel to Canada. You may also need a visa if you are transiting through a Canadian airport on your way to your final destination.

Basic travel requirements
You must meet some basic requirements to travel to Canada. You must:

• have a valid travel document, like a passport
• be in good health
• have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• convince an immigration officer that you have ties
• such as a job, home, financial assets or family
• that will take you back to your home country
• convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
• have enough money for your stay.
• The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.
  
  

You may also need a medical exam and letter of invitation from someone who lives in Canada.