Visitor Visa Canada
Visit Canada for tourism, visiting family, or business meetings. The Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) allows stays of up to 6 months, with multiple entries valid for up to 10 years.
Stay Duration
Up to 6 Months
Validity
Up to 10 Years
Entry Type
Multiple Entry
Total Fee
$185 CAD
What is a Visitor Visa?
A visitor visa (also called a Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) allows foreign nationals to enter Canada for tourism, family visits, or business purposes. Citizens of visa-required countries need this visa before traveling to Canada.
The visa can be single entry or multiple entry. Most visitor visas issued today are multiple entry, valid until your passport expires (up to 10 years). Each visit can last up to 6 months unless the border officer specifies a different date.
The key to approval is demonstrating strong ties to your home country and genuine intent to leave Canada at the end of your visit. Financial stability, employment, property ownership, and family ties all help prove this.
What You Can Do
Free Assessment
Get help with your visitor visa application. Our consultants will review your documents and improve your chances.
Start Free AssessmentBook a ConsultationRCIC License: R515110
Basic Requirements
- Valid passport from visa-required country
- Good health (no medical inadmissibility)
- No criminal inadmissibility
- Strong ties to home country
- Sufficient funds for your stay
- Intent to leave Canada at end of visit
Required Documents
Identity Documents
- Valid passport (6+ months validity recommended)
- Two passport-size photos
- Previous passports (if available)
- National ID card copy
Ties to Home Country
- Employment letter with leave approval
- Business ownership documents
- Property ownership (deed, tax receipts)
- Family ties (marriage certificate, children birth certificates)
- School enrollment (if student)
Financial Documents
- Bank statements (6 months)
- Fixed deposits or investments
- Income tax returns
- Pay slips (recent 3 months)
- Sponsorship letter if someone else is paying
Travel Documents
- Travel itinerary or flight booking
- Hotel reservations
- Invitation letter (if visiting someone)
- Previous travel history (stamps, visas)
Common Refusal Reasons
How to Avoid Refusal
Work with an immigration consultant to prepare a strong application. We review your documents, identify weaknesses, and help you present your case in the best light. A well prepared application dramatically improves your chances of approval.
For the national IRCC approval rate and visitor visa issuance by country, see the Canada visitor visa approval rate by country.
How to Apply
Check Requirements
Verify if you need a visitor visa. Citizens of some countries only need an eTA instead.
Gather Documents
Collect identity documents, proof of funds, employment proof, and ties to your home country.
Complete Application
Fill out the IMM 5257 form and supporting schedules. Create an IRCC online account.
Pay Fees and Submit
Pay the application fee ($100) and biometrics fee ($85) online. Upload all documents.
Provide Biometrics
Visit a Visa Application Centre within 30 days to give fingerprints and photo.
Wait for Decision
Processing times vary. You may be asked for additional documents or an interview.
Receive Visa
If approved, submit your passport for visa stamping. Plan your trip to Canada.
Visiting Visa Processing Time by Country
Visitor visa processing time in Canada varies by country of origin. Below are current estimates for common applicant nationalities. For a full breakdown across all visa types, see our Canada immigration processing times page. For when IRCC starts the clock and which steps add time, read Canada visitor visa processing time explained.
Processing times are estimates and may vary. Check IRCC website for current times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Canada issuing visitor visas now?
How long can I stay in Canada if I have a visitor visa?
What are the requirements for a visitor visa in Canada?
Why is Canada rejecting visitor visas?
Is Canada giving a 10 year visitor visa?
Does Canada give a 5 year visitor visa?
How much bank balance is required for a Canada visitor visa?
Can I leave Canada and come back as a visitor?
Apply for Your Visitor Visa
Our RCIC consultants will help you prepare a strong application and avoid common mistakes that lead to refusals.
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. Each case is unique and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) before making immigration decisions.