Are You Eligible for a Canadian Visitor Visa?
To apply for a Canadian visitor visa, you must meet several general requirements, regardless of the purpose of your visit.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for a visitor visa, you must:
Have a valid passport or travel document to prove your identity and citizenship.
Be in good health (a medical exam may be required in some cases).
Depending on your country of residence, secure travel insurance for the duration of your stay in Canada.
Prove that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit by demonstrating strong ties to your home country. This can include:
A return ticket
Financial stability (such as property ownership)
Employment or family commitments
Not be inadmissible to Canada due to criminal or immigration-related issues. If you are inadmissible, you may still qualify for entry through a temporary resident permit if you have a valid reason for travel.
For specific document requirements based on your travel purpose—such as visiting a spouse, family, or joining a vessel as a marine crew member—you can find a detailed checklist on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
How to Apply and Application Fees
The application for a visitor visa must be submitted online through the IRCC portal. If you are unable to apply online due to a disability or if you hold a refugee, stateless, or non-citizen travel document, you may apply on paper.
Application Fees
The base fee for a visitor visa starts at $100 CAD.
Additional costs may apply for biometrics, a medical exam, or a police certificate, depending on your situation.
Extending Your Stay in Canada
If you wish to stay in Canada longer as a visitor, you must apply for a visitor record, which allows for an extended stay beyond your initial visa duration.
Key Points for Extension:
A visitor record is different from a visitor visa—it grants additional time to stay but does not serve as a re-entry permit.
You must apply for an extension at least 30 days before your current status expires.
Visitor Visa Processing Times
The processing time for a visitor visa varies based on:
Your country of residence
The type of visa you are applying for
The volume of applications being processed at that time
Since processing times differ from case to case, applicants should check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date estimates by selecting their home country and visa type.
Want to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process? Contact us for expert guidance on your Canadian visitor visa!
