When considering a trip to Canada lasting fewer than six months, obtaining a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) becomes necessary. Within this category, the Canada Visitor Visa, also referred to as the Tourist Visa for Canada, stands as a pivotal option.
What exactly is the Canada Visitor Visa?
The Canada Visitor Visa serves as a temporary resident visa, granting permission for various purposes, including:
- Tourism or holidays in Canada
- Visiting family
Upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry, individuals holding this visa request entry from Border Patrol officers. Approval depends on the presented documents and the individual’s circumstances.
Do I need to apply for a Canada Visitor Visa?
While most travelers require a Visitor Visa for entry into Canada, certain nationalities might only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or might be exempt from visa requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for the Canada Tourist Visa?
Applicants need to fulfill specific criteria, including:
- Being at least 18 years old to apply as the primary applicant
- Possessing a valid passport with sufficient blank pages
- Providing translated and certified non-English or French documents
- Having a clean criminal record
- Paying the requisite fees
- Submitting necessary forms and documents
- Proving intent to return home after the visit
- Demonstrating no intention to work or study in Canada
Additional criteria may apply based on the type of TRV visa sought.
Canada Tourist Visa Requirements
Documents required for a tourist visa in Canada encompass:
- Standard visa application requirements
- Completed Canada Tourist Visa Application Form
- Financial statements indicating sufficient funds
- Travel itinerary or plans
- Invitation letter from family or friends (if applicable)
- Proof of relationship with family or friends (if applicable)
- Immigration statuses of family and friends (if applicable)
- Employment or education details
- Proof of temporary stay intentions
- Court documents for a clean criminal history
How do I apply for the Canadian Visitor Visa?
The application process involves these key steps:
- Check Eligibility
- Complete required documents
- Submit the Application form
- Respond to additional requests
- Submit your passport for stamping
Canada Visitor Visa Fees
For individuals applying for a Canada Visitor Visa, the fees stand at CAD$100 per person. Additionally, if biometrics are required, an extra charge of CAD$85 is applicable. Consequently, the complete cost of the visa application totals CAD$185. Alongside this, there’s a passport processing fee amounting to approximately CAD$45.
Canada Visitor Visa Processing Time
The processing duration for a Canada Visitor Visa spans between 8 to 40 days. However, this timeline varies based on the applicant’s country of residence, typically averaging around one month for processing.
Activities Allowed with a Canada Tourist Visa
The Canada Tourist Visa allows individuals to explore the country for up to 6 months, given they maintain good financial standing. However, acquiring Canadian citizenship, seeking permanent residency, working, or pursuing educational courses during this stay is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, access to governmental benefits or healthcare services isn’t permissible with this visa.
Spouses/Dependents with Canada Tourist Visa
Dependents, such as spouses and minor children, can accompany the primary visa holder to Canada. Each dependent requires a separate application and respective fee payments. It’s crucial to submit all applications together, either at the Visa Application Center or online, to be processed as a family unit.
Extending a Canada Visitor Visa
If an individual wishes to stay longer than the allotted 6 months with a tourist visa, a Visitor Record extension is necessary. This extension request, equivalent to a visitor record, must be submitted at least 30 days before the visa’s expiration.
What is a visitor record?
Distinct from a visitor visa, a visitor record isn’t attached to the passport. Instead, it’s a standalone document granted by IRCC upon approval, detailing the departure deadline from Canada.
However, it’s important to note that a visitor record is only applicable within Canada. Exiting and re-entering the country will require a new visitor visa application.
Applying for a Canada Visa Extension (Visitor Record)
There are two application methods:
- Online Application: This requires an IRCC account, electronic document submission, and online fee payment.
- Paper Application: This involves downloading the application package, printing, completing, and mailing the form, along with the required documents and fees, to the designated address.
Necessary Forms and Documents for a Visitor Record:
- Application to Change Conditions, Extend my stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor or Temporary Resident Permit Holder (IMM 5708)
- Use of a Representative (IMM 5476)
- Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM 5475)
- Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409) (If applicable)
- Payment receipts
- Photocopies of passport pages or alternative travel or identity documents
- Current immigration documents (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of sufficient financial means
In summary, the Canada Visitor Visa allows stays for tourism or family visits for up to six months. Meeting eligibility criteria, completing forms, and paying fees are essential steps. Remember, no work or study is permitted, and extensions require a visitor record. Follow the guidelines for a hassle-free Canadian visit.