Canadian Visitor Visa

What is Canadian Visitor-Tourist Visa?

A Canadian Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows people to enter Canada for any purpose like as tourism, visiting family, or going to business meetings. We provided an overview of what you need to know about visitor visas, including their types, required documents, application procedures, and important updates based on the latest Canadian immigration laws.

What kind of Visas are Visitor Visas?

• Single-Entry Visa: Allowing entry into Canada once. After leaving, a new visa is required for re-entry.
• Multiple-Entry Visa: Permits multiple entries into Canada during the visa's validity period (up to 10 years or one month before the passport expires).
• Super Visa: Special visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows extended stays of up to two years per visit.
• Business Visitor Visa: For travelers who visiting Canada temporarily for business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, or site visits. Note this visa does not permit employment in Canada.
• Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Canada to another destination, staying less than 48 hours.
• Facilitation Visa: This is for Canadian citizens with dual nationality who lack a Canadian passport and need to travel to Canada urgently.
• Diplomatic and Official Visa: to government officials and diplomats traveling to Canada on official business.
• Crew Member Visa: For people who work as crew members on international transport vehicles entering Canada (e.g., ships, flights).

Who is Eligible for a Visitor Visa?

To apply for a visitor visa, applicants must have:

• Valid travel documents (e.g., passport).
• Proof of sufficient financial resources to support their stay.
• Ties to their home country (e.g., employment, property, or family obligations).
• Intention to leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay.
• No criminal or immigration-related convictions.

What documents do you need for a Canadian visitor visa?

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

1. Completed visa application forms.
2. Valid passport.
3. Two recent passport-sized photos meeting Canadian immigration standards.
4. Proof of financial support (e.g., bank statements, employment letters, or proof of sponsorship).
5. Invitation letter (if applicable), including details of the host in Canada.
6. Travel itinerary and accommodation details.
7. Proof of ties to the home country.
8. Additional documents for specific visa types:
   
   Super Visa:
   Proof of relationship to the host.
   Medical insurance from a Canadian company covering at least one year.
   Letter of financial support from the host.
   
   Business Visitor Visa:
   Invitation letter from the host company in Canada.
   Proof of business activities in the home country.
   Details of the conference, meeting, or event being attended.
   
   Facilitation Visa:
   Proof of Canadian citizenship (e.g., birth certificate or citizenship certificate).
   

How to Apply for a Canadian Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)?

Step 1: Prepare Your Application
Gather all required documents.
Check your eligibility on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

Step 2: Submit Your Application
Create an online account on the IRCC portal.
Fill out the application form and upload the documents.
Pay the application fee (CAD $100 for a standard visitor visa; fees for biometrics and other services may apply).

Step 3: Provide Biometrics
Schedule and attend an appointment at a local Visa Application Centre (VAC) to submit fingerprints and photographs.

Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing times vary depending on the country. Check the IRCC website for current timelines.

Step 5: Get the Decision Result

• If approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport.
• If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the decision.

Latest Updates and Rules

• Biometric Requirement: All applicants between 14 and 79 years old must provide biometrics unless exempt.
• eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization): Travelers from visa-exempt countries may require an eTA instead of a visitor visa.
• COVID-19 Protocols: Applicants should check for updated travel restrictions or health requirements before applying.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Make sure all documents are complete and accurate.
2. Provide strong evidence of ties to your home country to demonstrate your intention to return.
3. Apply well before your planned travel date to account for processing times.
4. Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.

Important Resources you may need to check:

Stay up to date about Canadian immigration updates and laws to ensure a smooth application process for your visitor visa:

• IRCC Visitor Visa Application Guide: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html
• Processing Times: here you can check your time line: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html
• Visa Application Centres: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/contact-ircc/offices/international-visa-offices.html

Importnant Note: you can always use our free immigration AI assitance in your account.