The process for obtaining a Canadian tourist visa, officially called a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), involves the following steps:
1. Determine if You Need a Visa
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Citizens of certain countries require a visa to visit Canada. Check Canada's official visa requirements page to confirm if you need a visa.
2. Gather Required Documents
Typical documents include:
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A valid passport.
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Proof of financial support (e.g., bank statements, pay stubs).
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A travel itinerary (e.g., flight tickets, hotel reservations).
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A letter of invitation from someone in Canada (if applicable).
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Proof of ties to your home country (e.g., employment letter, property documents).
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Photographs that meet Canada's visa photo requirements.
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Any additional documents specific to your circumstances, as outlined by the visa office responsible for your country.
3. Complete the Application Form
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Fill out the Visitor Visa Application Form (IMM 5257).
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If applying online, create an account on the IRCC portal.
4. Pay the Fees
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Visitor visa fee: CAD 100.
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Biometric fee (if required): CAD 85.
5. Submit Your Application
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Online Application: Upload your documents and submit them through the IRCC portal.
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Paper Application: Submit your application to the Visa Application Center (VAC) in your region.
6. Provide Biometrics
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If required, you’ll receive instructions to visit a designated center to provide fingerprints and photographs.
7. Wait for Processing
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Processing times vary depending on the country. Check the current processing times.
8. Decision and Passport Submission
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If approved, you’ll be asked to send your passport to the VAC for visa stamping.
9. Travel to Canada
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Ensure you carry:
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Your passport with the visa.
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Supporting documents (e.g., proof of funds, travel itinerary).
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A border officer at the port of entry will decide your entry and length of stay.
Read also: Canada Visitor visa processing Time