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Get a Visitor Visa
To visit Canada as a foreign national, you may need to obtain a Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). A Visitor Visa allows you to enter and stay in Canada for a temporary period for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending business meetings. Here is a detailed overview of the steps and requirements to obtain a Visitor Visa in Canada:
1. Determine if you need a Visitor Visa:
- Check the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or use the online tool to determine if you require a Visitor Visa based on your citizenship.
- Some countries are visa-exempt, meaning their citizens can enter Canada for short visits without a Visitor Visa. However, they may still need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if traveling by air.
2. Gather the Required Documents:
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Canada.
- Application Form: Complete the Visitor Visa application form (IMM 5257) accurately and honestly.
- Photographs: Provide recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specifications outlined by IRCC.
- Proof of Purpose of Visit: Provide documentation supporting the purpose of your visit, such as a detailed itinerary, invitation letters, or hotel reservations.
- Proof of Funds: Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Canada, including transportation, accommodation, and daily expenses.
- Ties to Your Home Country: Show strong ties to your home country, such as employment, assets, family, or educational commitments, to prove your intention to return after your visit.
- Additional Documents: Depending on your specific circumstances, additional documents may be required, such as a letter of invitation, travel history, or medical insurance.
3. Pay the Application Fee:
- There is a non-refundable fee associated with the Visitor Visa application. The fee amount may vary depending on the country of application and is subject to change, so check the official IRCC website for the current fee.
4. Submit the Application:
- Submit your completed application form, along with the required documents and the application fee, to the visa office responsible for your country.
- You can submit the application online through the IRCC website or submit a paper application in person or by mail to the designated visa office.
5. Attend Biometrics Appointment:
- Depending on your nationality, you may be required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at a Visa Application Center (VAC) or an Application Support Center (ASC) in your home country.
6. Wait for Processing:
- The processing time for a Visitor Visa application can vary, so it's important to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
- You can check the status of your application online using the application number provided during the application submission.
7. Decision and Visa Issuance:
- If your application is approved, you will receive a Letter of Introduction stating the duration of your authorized stay in Canada.
- Upon arrival in Canada, an officer at the port of entry will verify your documents and issue the Visitor Visa, typically in the form of a stamp on your passport.
It's important to note that the Visitor Visa application process and requirements may change over time. It's recommended to consult the official IRCC website or seek advice from a qualified immigration professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding obtaining a Visitor Visa in Canada.
Consult us for the most up-to-date and accurate information before starting the application process.
Westland Immigration & Visa Services
Mr. Varinder Sharma (Director, MCom, Dip. Imm. Law), (RCIC), Member ICCRC
Cell: 1-778-988-8472
Office: +1-778-783-9991
Toll Free: 1-800-401-3797
Fax: 1-877-275-6880