Visit (Tourist Visa) Permit
Visitors are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents, but they are legally authorized to enter Canada temporarily. The length of stay is typically 6 months, but the border services officer at the port of entry may adjust this duration based on individual circumstances. Visitors may also receive a visitor record, which outlines the date they are required to leave.
1. Purpose of Visit: You are traveling to Canada for tourism, business, or to visit family members.
2. Travel Document: You are traveling with a valid passport or travel document.
3. Nationality: Your nationality determines whether you need a Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
4. Eligibility: You must be able to demonstrate that you:
- Have enough money for your stay and return.
- Have strong ties to your home country (such as a job, family, or property) to prove that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit.
- Will obey the conditions of your visa and leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for a Visitor Visa, you can speak to an immigration specialist for further guidance.
- Verify if you need a Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) based on your nationality, travel document, and method of travel.
2. Prepare Your Application:
- Gather all necessary documents, including proof of financial support, travel history, and ties to your home country.
3. Submit Your Application:
- Complete the online or paper application for a Visitor Visa and submit it along with required documents.
4. Wait for Decision:
- Once your application is submitted, the Canadian visa office will review it. Processing times can vary, so check the estimated timeframes.
5. Receive a Decision:
- If your application is approved, you will receive a **Visitor Visa** in your passport. If additional documents are required, you will be contacted.
6. Travel to Canada:
- After receiving your Visitor Visa, you can travel to Canada. Upon arrival, the border services officer will determine your exact length of stay.
1. Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada.
2. Completed Application Form: The official application for a Visitor Visa (available online or in paper form).
3. Proof of Financial Support: Documents showing you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada.
4. Travel Itinerary: A detailed plan of your travel in Canada (e.g., flight bookings, accommodation arrangements).
5. Ties to Home Country: Evidence of ties to your home country (e.g., employment letter, property ownership, family).
6. Photographs: Passport-sized photos that meet Canada’s visa photo requirements.
7. Application Fees: Payment of the visa application fee.
8. Additional Documents (if applicable): Depending on your case, additional documents may be required, such as an invitation letter from family or business partners in Canada.
- Most visitors are allowed to stay for up to 6 months. However, the border services officer may allow a shorter or longer stay based on individual circumstances.
2. Do I need a Visitor Visa to visit Canada?
- Not everyone needs a Visitor Visa. Depending on your nationality and travel document, you may need either a Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Check with the Canadian authorities or consult an immigration specialist.
3. Can I work or study while on a Visitor Visa?
- No, a Visitor Visa does not allow you to work or study in Canada. If you wish to work or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa or permit.
4. What happens if I stay longer than the allowed time?
- If you overstay your visa, you may be subject to penalties, including removal from Canada or a ban from entering in the future. It’s crucial to comply with the conditions of your visa.
5. Can I extend my stay in Canada with a Visitor Visa?
- Yes, you can apply to extend your stay while in Canada if you want to remain longer. You must apply for an extension before your current visitor status expires.
6. Do I need to provide biometrics for my Visitor Visa application?
- Some applicants are required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) as part of the application process. You will be notified if you need to provide biometrics.
7. Can I visit Canada multiple times with the same Visitor Visa?
- A Visitor Visa is typically valid for a single entry or multiple entries, depending on the visa issued. You can apply for multiple-entry visas if you plan to visit Canada more than once.
