November 7, 2024
Visitors from around the world to Canada for tourism, visiting family, or to explore business opportunities. Many travelers need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), also known as a visit visa, to enter Canada for a temporary stay. This is a simple guide to help you know how to get a Canadian visit visa and what is required.
1: What Kind of Visa Do I Need to Visit Canada?
Not all travelers require a visit visa to enter Canada. Visa exempt citizens from the United States, for example, do not require a TRV, but may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if travelling by air. But travelers from other countries will need a TRV to enter Canada.
2: Types of Canadian Visit Visas
There are two main types of Canadian visit visas:
- Single-Entry Visa: It allows you to enter Canada once and is valid until you leave the country.
- Multiple-Entry Visa: It is perfect for frequent visitors as it allows multiple entries to Canada within the visa’s validity period (up to 10 years).
3: Visit Visa Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a TRV, you must demonstrate:
- A Valid Reason for Visit: If you want to go, you need a legitimate reason to go, like tourism, visiting family or attending a business meeting.
- Proof of Funds: Have enough funds to cover your stay and return trip.
- Ties to Your Home Country: Show that you have ties (family, job, property) that will compel you to return to your home country.
- Good Health: Medical exam may be required from some applicants.
- No Criminal Record: You should have a clean record; some criminal offenses will disqualify you.
4: Documents You’ll Need
Prepare the following documents to apply for a Canadian visit visa:
- Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for the time you will be visiting.
- Visa Application Form (IMM 5257): Fill the application form correctly.
- Proof of Financial Support: Financial documents such as bank statements, pay slips, etc.
- Letter of Invitation (if applicable): A letter of invitation from family or friends can help you if you are visiting family or friends.
- Photographs: Follow Canadian visa photo requirements.
- Additional Documents: That could include proof of employment, travel itinerary, and proof of ties to your home country.
5: How to Apply for a Visit Visa
There are two main ways to apply:
- Online Application: As most people apply online, this is faster and more convenient. Go to the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) website, make an account, fill out the forms, upload your documents and pay the processing fee.
- Paper Application: If you can’t apply online, you can send a paper application to a Visa Application Center (VAC) in your country.
6: Processing Times and Fees
Processing times depend on your country of residence and the volume of applications. You should apply a few months in advance of your intended travel. Fees include:
- Application Fee: $100 CAD per person
- Biometrics Fee (if required): $85 CAD per person
7: Biometrics Requirement
As part of their TRV application, most applicants will have to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo). Once you submit your application, you’ll be told where and how to provide biometrics.
8: Receiving Your Visa Decision
When you send in your application, you will get a decision. Your visa will be stamped in your passport if approved. You’ll be denied, and if you’re denied, you’ll get an explanation and possibly the chance to reapply if your circumstances change.
9: Arriving in Canada
When you arrive in Canada, a border services officer will check your documents and ask you a few questions about why you’re there. You will have to be ready to prove your travel plans and your financial means, and any supporting documents you brought for your visit visa application.
With the right preparation and documentation, obtaining a visit visa to Canada can be a simple process. A TRV will let you visit family, explore Canada’s natural beauty, or do business, all while experiencing everything Canada has to offer. For more information, be sure to check the latest requirements on the IRCC website or consult with an immigration professional.
