Tourist (Visitor) Visa

The Canada Visitor Visa, a Temporary Resident Visa, enables individuals to visit Canada for tourism or family purposes. Upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry, Border Patrol Officers assess the traveler's documents and situation to grant or deny entry.

Most travelers require a Visitor visa for entry, though some nationals may only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or may be exempt from visa requirements.

Canada Tourist Visa Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Canada Tourist Visa, applicants must fulfill specific criteria. Failure to meet eligibility requirements may result in rejection due to inadmissibility, necessitating a Temporary Resident Permit for entry.

Canada Tourist Visa Requirements

Applicants must submit various documents, including:

  • Standard Canada visa requirements

  • Canada Tourist Visa Application Form

  • Financial statements demonstrating sufficient funds

  • Travel itinerary or description of planned activities

  • Invitation letter from family or friends, if applicable

  • Proof of relationship with family, if visiting them

  • Immigration statuses and financial statements of family or friends, if visiting them

  • Declaration Letter to the Government of Canada

  • Two photos meeting Canada's requirements

  • Employment or education status documentation, including a letter from the employer

  • Proof of temporary stay intention and intention to return home

  • Documentation proving no intention to work or study in Canada

  • Court documents demonstrating a clean criminal history

  • Translations of documents not in English or French

How to Apply for a Canadian Visitor Visa

The application process involves confirming eligibility, completing required documents, submitting the application form, waiting for processing, responding to additional requests, and sending the passport for stamping.

Canada Visitor Visa Fees

The application fee per person is $100 CAD, with an additional $85 CAD for biometrics. Passport processing costs approximately $45 CAD.

Canada Visitor Visa Processing Time

Processing time ranges from 8 to 40 days, varying based on the applicant's country of residence.

Canada Tourist Visa Validity

The duration of the Canada Tourist Visa is determined on a case-by-case basis by the Canadian Consulate. The visa may be issued for the intended visit duration or until the passport expiration date. Regardless of visa validity, stays exceeding 6 months are not permitted, requiring a return to the home country before reentry.


Last updated