Canada

Canada Tourist Visa Requirements

A Canada Tourist Visa is a temporary visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Canada for tourism, visiting family/friends, or attending business events (not for employment). It’s usually valid for up to 6 months per visit, and many applicants receive multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years (or until passport expiry).

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a Canada Tourist Visa, you must:

• Hold a valid passport
• Convince the visa officer you’ll leave Canada at the end of your visit
• Show sufficient funds to support your stay
• Provide a purpose of visit (tourism, visiting family, etc.)

 

Documents Required

Here are the standard documents required:

1. Valid Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months)
2. Photographs (as per IRCC specifications)
3. Visa Application Form (IMM 5257)
4. Proof of Funds (bank statements, payslips, etc.)
5. Travel Itinerary (hotel bookings, flight reservations)
6. Purpose of Visit Letter
7. Ties to Home Country (employment letter, family ties, assets)
8. Invitation Letter (if visiting family/friends)
9. Proof of Relationship (if applicable)
10. Cover Letter explaining your travel plans
11. Visa Fee

 

How to Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa (2025)

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

Make sure your documents are complete and accurate.

Step 2: Create an IRCC Account

Register on the official IRCC portal and start your application online.

Step 3: Upload Documents and Pay Fees

Upload all required documents and pay the visa application fee (CAD $100).

Step 4: Biometrics Appointment

Visit the nearest VAC (Visa Application Centre) to give your fingerprints and photograph.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Visa processing usually takes 15–30 working days, depending on your country of residence.

Step 6: Passport Submission

If approved, you’ll be asked to submit your passport for visa stamping.

 

Dos for Canada Tourist Visa

1. Do submit a clear travel itinerary.

Mention cities you plan to visit, hotel details, and travel dates.

2. Do include strong ties to your home country.

Job letters, property documents, or family commitments help prove you will return.

3. Do show sufficient financial support.

Typically, around CAD $1,000–$2,000 per month per person is recommended.

4. Do get a proper invitation letter (if visiting someone).

Include your host’s ID, status in Canada, address, and contact number.

5. Do check document formats.

Upload files in the right format (PDF, JPG) and keep size limits in mind.

6. Do explain your travel purpose in a cover letter.

Keep it short, honest, and well-organized.

 

? Don’ts for Canada Tourist Visa

1. Don’t submit fake or forged documents.

This leads to outright refusal and possibly a 5-year ban.

2. Don’t overstate your financial situation.

Officers cross-check bank statements and employment letters.

3. Don’t leave gaps in your travel history.

Explain any long stays or international travel in your application.

4. Don’t book non-refundable tickets.

Wait until you get your visa before making final travel purchases.

5. Don’t ignore the importance of a strong application.

Even one weak document can lead to refusal.

6. Don’t hide previous refusals or visa issues.

Be transparent; IRCC can access your international travel history.

 

Canada Tourist Visa Fees (2025)

• Visa Application Fee: CAD $100
• Biometrics Fee: CAD $85 (per person)

 

Can You Work on a Tourist Visa in Canada?

No, a tourist visa does not allow you to work in Canada. If you’re caught working without authorization, it could lead to removal and a future ban.

 

FAQs: Canada Tourist Visa 2025

 

Q1: How long can I stay in Canada on a tourist visa?

Most visitors can stay for up to 6 months. The exact duration is stamped on your passport.

 

Q2: Can I extend my stay in Canada?

Yes. Apply at least 30 days before your status expires. Use the IRCC online platform to request an extension.

 

Q3: What happens if my visa is refused?

You’ll receive a refusal letter stating the reasons. You can reapply any time after correcting those issues.

 

Q4: Is travel insurance mandatory?

It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended. Medical costs in Canada are high for visitors.

 

Q5: Can I visit the USA from Canada on this visa?

Only if you also hold a valid US visa. The Canada TRV does not allow entry into the US.

 

Q6: Do I need to show return tickets?

Return tickets are not mandatory, but having one strengthens your case.

 

Q7: Will I be interviewed for a tourist visa?

In most cases, no interview is required unless the visa officer requests it.