Travelers planning on going to Canada for relaxation, family visits, or to take in the stunning scenery will probably require a tourist visa to Canada, which is also referred to as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).
Let’s explore requirements for a tourist visa to Canada.
What are the requirements for a tourist visa to Canada?
- Determine if You Need a Visa
Not everyone who wants to visit Canada needs a visa. Certain countries only require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) and do not require a visa.
Visit the official Government of Canada website to find out if your country is exempt from the need for a visa.
Canada Tourist Visa Requirements
You will need the following paperwork to apply for a tourist visa to Canada,
1. Passport
- A valid passport with at least one blank page
2. Photographs
- Two recent passport-sized photos that meet the specifications outlined by the Canadian government
3. Proof of Financial Support
- Documents showing you can support yourself financially during your stay, such as bank statements or pay stubs.
4. Travel Itinerary
- Details of your travel plans, including flight bookings and accommodation reservations
5. Purpose of Visit
- A letter explaining why you want to visit Canada
6. Ties to Home Country
Proof that you will return to your home country, like a job contract, property ownership, or family ties
7. Application Form
- Complete the Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) application form (IMM 5257).
TRV Application Form – CLICK HERE
Complete the Application Form
Correctly complete the IMM 5257 application for a visitor’s visa. The processing of your application may be delayed by any mistakes or omissions.
Read: How soon can a student get PR in Canada?
- Pay the Application Fee
The non-refundable visa application fee needs to be paid online.
The cost is CAD 100 as of 2024, but it is advisable to visit the official website to verify the most recent price.
- Submit Biometrics
Most applications require biometric information, like a photo and fingerprints.
After submitting your application, you will receive a letter with instructions on where and how to provide your biometrics.
Submit Your Application
Your application may be turned in on paper or electronically.
To submit an online application, register on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and follow to the guidelines.
Send your application by mail to the relevant visa office if you are submitting it on paper.
- Wait for Processing
Processing times differ based on the country in which you live. The IRCC website allows you to verify the current processing times.
You might be asked to come in for an interview or provide more information during this time.
- Receive Your Visa Decision
You will receive a decision following the processing of your application.
Your passport will be stamped with the visa if it is approved.
You will receive a letter describing the reasons for the refusal if you are not accepted.
How much bank balance is required for a Canada tourist visa?
The minimum amount of money required in your bank account to obtain a tourist visa to Canada is not fixed.
Yet, immigration officials take into consideration certain guidelines and factors.
- Minimum
It is advised that you have CAD 6,500 or more in your account. This shows you have the money to support yourself while you are here.
- Better to have more
Since CAD 6,500 is the minimum; your application may be strengthened if you have closer to CAD 10,000.
- It depends
The total can change based on your itinerary, length of stay, and financial status.
A longer trip or more lavish plans might require a larger balance.
Bottom Line
There are various procedures involved in getting a tourist visa to Canada, but you can complete the process successfully if you plan and pay close attention to details.
Always visit the official Government of Canada website for the most recent details and requirements.
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