A visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa, TRV) allows individuals to enter Canada temporarily for purposes like tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending business meetings or conferences. The requirements for a visitor visa include:
- A Valid Passport: Your travel document must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada.
- Proof of Financial Support: Applicants must demonstrate they have enough funds to cover expenses such as accommodation, travel, and living costs during their stay. This can include bank statements, pay stubs, or a letter from a sponsor in Canada.
- Ties to Your Home Country: Evidence of ties (like employment, family, or property) helps demonstrate that you intend to leave Canada at the end of your visit.
- Health Requirements: Some applicants may be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure they are in good health before entering Canada.
- Criminal Background Check: Applicants must not have any criminal or immigration-related convictions. Police certificates may be required.
- Biometrics: Many applicants are required to provide fingerprints and a photograph as part of the application process.
- Letter of Invitation: If visiting family or friends, an invitation letter from a Canadian resident or citizen can help strengthen the application, although it is not mandatory.
- Purpose of Visit: Applicants must clearly explain their reason for visiting, such as attending a specific event, sightseeing, or meeting family.
Summary:
Once all documents are submitted, the processing time varies depending on the applicant's country of residence. The visa, if approved, typically allows stays of up to six months per visit, although the final decision on the length of stay is made by border officers upon arrival.
