A Canada Tourist Visa, also known as a Visitor Visa or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows foreign nationals to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or short-term business. To apply successfully, you’ll need to gather specific documents that show your intent to visit, financial stability, and ties to your home country. Here’s a complete list of the documents required for a Canada Tourist Visa, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free application process.
1. Completed Visa Application Form (IMM 5257)
The first step in applying for a Canada Tourist Visa is filling out Form IMM 5257, which is the Visitor Visa Application Form. This form gathers your personal information, travel history, purpose of visit, and more.
Key Tips:
- Make sure all details are accurate and complete.
- Double-check information for any errors, as incomplete forms can delay the process.
2. Valid Passport
A valid passport is required for the Canada Tourist Visa application. Your passport must meet specific criteria to be accepted.
Passport Requirements:
- Validity: It should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry to Canada.
- Blank Pages: At least one blank page for the visa stamp.
- Copy of Passport Pages: Photocopies of the bio-data page (with photo and personal information) and any pages with previous visas or entry/exit stamps.
3. Passport-Sized Photos
Submit recent passport-sized photos that meet the Canada Visa photo requirements.
Photo Specifications:
- Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
- Background: Plain white or light-colored.
- Date Taken: Within the last six months.
- Expression: Neutral, with eyes open and mouth closed.
Include your name and date of birth on the back of each photo if submitting physically.
4. Proof of Funds
To prove you can support yourself during your stay, provide proof of financial means. This shows you have adequate funds to cover travel costs, accommodations, and other expenses while in Canada.
Accepted Documents for Proof of Funds:
- Bank Statements: Recent statements for the past 3–6 months showing account balance and transaction history.
- Employment Letter: If employed, a letter from your employer stating your position, salary, and approved leave dates.
- Pay Slips: Recent pay stubs.
- Income Tax Returns: Recent tax filings.
- Sponsorship Letter: If a family member or friend in Canada is sponsoring you, include a letter from them and their financial details.
5. Travel Itinerary
Submit a travel itinerary that outlines your travel plans within Canada, including places you plan to visit, accommodation arrangements, and intended departure and return dates.
Important Details:
- Flight Bookings: Not mandatory, but providing a tentative booking or itinerary can strengthen your application.
- Hotel Reservations: Proof of accommodations, including hotel bookings, Airbnb reservations, or a host invitation letter.
- Tour Details: If applicable, include any pre-booked tour schedules or activities.
An organized travel itinerary assures Canadian immigration officers of your genuine intent to visit as a tourist.
6. Invitation Letter (If Visiting Family or Friends)
If you’re visiting family or friends in Canada, an invitation letter from your host can support your application. The letter should include details about your relationship, the duration of stay, and information about your host in Canada.
Information to Include:
- Host Details: Full name, address, phone number, and proof of Canadian residency (e.g., passport, PR card).
- Purpose and Duration of Visit: Explain the purpose of your visit and planned stay duration.
- Host’s Financial Details: If your host is covering expenses, they should provide proof of their financial ability.
While an invitation letter isn’t mandatory, it’s strongly recommended for those visiting friends or relatives.
7. Ties to Home Country
To show that you plan to return to your home country after your visit, you’ll need to provide proof of ties. These can include employment, family obligations, property ownership, or ongoing studies.
Examples of Ties:
- Employment Letter: If you’re employed, submit a letter from your employer confirming your job, salary, and return date.
- Property Ownership: Documents proving ownership of property, such as land deeds, mortgage papers, or rental agreements.
- Family Ties: Proof of family members living in your home country, such as birth certificates or family records.
- Educational Enrollment: If you’re a student, provide enrollment or admission letters.
These documents reassure immigration authorities that you have strong reasons to return after your visit.
8. Travel History
Canada may also require evidence of your past travel history to assess your risk of overstaying. Showing previous travel experience can be advantageous.
Travel History Documents:
- Previous Passports: Copies of past passports if they contain entry and exit stamps.
- Previous Visas: Copies of visas for countries you’ve visited, especially for countries like the USA, UK, or Schengen Area.
- Travel Log: If available, a travel log detailing past international trips.
A robust travel history can demonstrate responsible travel habits and enhance your application.
9. Purpose of Travel (Cover Letter)
A cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit is often helpful for Tourist Visa applications. This letter should briefly outline your travel plans, duration, and reasons for returning to your home country.
Tips for the Cover Letter:
- Introduce Yourself: Briefly mention your background, including employment or academic status.
- Explain Purpose: Clearly explain why you wish to visit Canada and your intended activities.
- Mention Return Intent: Highlight any ties to your home country, such as family, job, or educational commitments.
This letter provides immigration officers with a clear understanding of your travel intentions.
10. Biometrics Appointment
Most applicants for a Canada Tourist Visa need to submit biometrics (fingerprints and photo). After submitting your application, you’ll receive instructions on how to book a biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC).
Biometrics Steps:
- Appointment Booking: Schedule an appointment at your nearest VAC.
- Biometrics Fee: Pay the biometrics fee (approximately CAD $85).
- Confirmation: Receive a receipt or confirmation of biometrics submission, which must be included with your application.
11. Additional Documents (If Required)
In certain cases, additional documents may be required based on your circumstances or the discretion of the visa officer:
- Medical Exam: Required if you plan to stay for more than six months or come from a country where certain health risks are present.
- Police Clearance Certificate: May be required to prove good character and lack of criminal history.
Summary Checklist: Canada Tourist Visa Documents
Here’s a quick checklist of documents you’ll need for a Canada Tourist Visa:
- Form IMM 5257 – Completed application form
- Passport – Valid and with photocopies of relevant pages
- Passport-Sized Photos – As per Canada’s specifications
- Proof of Funds – Bank statements, employment letter, etc.
- Travel Itinerary – Flight and hotel reservations, if available
- Invitation Letter – If visiting family or friends
- Proof of Ties to Home Country – Employment, family, property
- Travel History – Past visas and travel stamps
- Cover Letter – Purpose of travel and return intent
- Biometrics Appointment Confirmation
- Additional Documents – Medical exam or police certificate, if required
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to process a Canada Tourist Visa?
Processing times vary, but generally take between 2 weeks to 2 months.
2. Can I apply for a Canada Tourist Visa online?
Yes, you can apply online through the IRCC website or by submitting a paper application at a Visa Application Center (VAC).
3. Do I need a medical exam for a Tourist Visa?
A medical exam is usually required if you plan to stay for more than six months or are from a designated country.
4. How much does a Canada Tourist Visa cost?
The application fee is CAD $100, plus CAD $85 for biometrics.
5. How long can I stay in Canada on a Tourist Visa?
Typically, Tourist Visa holders can stay for up to six months, although the duration may be shorter depending on the officer’s discretion at entry.
6. Can I extend my stay on a Canada Tourist Visa?
Yes, you can apply for an extension by submitting a visitor record application before your visa expires.