Visit Purpose: You must show documentation proving that you are traveling for leisure or to see family or friends, and that your goal is to return home at the end of your journey.

Proof of Financial Support: You will need to show that you have enough money to support yourself and any dependents during your stay. This can include bank statements, pay slips, or sponsorship letters from family members in Canada.

Strong Ties to Your Home Country: To prove that you intend to return home after your visit, you must show strong ties to your home country, such as property ownership, stable employment, or family ties.

Good Health: You may be asked to undergo a medical examination if you plan to stay in Canada for more than six months or if your home country has certain health risks.

No Criminal Record: Applicants must meet Canada’s admissibility requirements. This means that you must not have any criminal record or be involved in any illegal activities.

Travel History: If you have a history of travel to other countries and have followed the rules of those visas, this can strengthen your application.

Return or Onward Ticket: You need to provide proof of a booked flight that shows your intention to leave Canada after your trip.

Visa Application Process

The application process for a Canada tourist visa is fairly straightforward, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to avoid delays or rejections. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you with your visa application:

Create an Account on the IRCC Website: The first step is to create an online account with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This account will be used to submit your application and monitor its advancement.

Complete the Application Form: Once your account is set up, you need to complete the visa application form (IMM 5257). Be sure to fill out all fields accurately and provide detailed information about your travel plans, financial status, and background.

Gather Required Documents: Prepare all the required documents (see the “Documents Required” section below) and ensure that everything is in order. Make sure all scanned documents are clear and in the correct format (PDF or JPG).

Pay the Visa Fee: The application fee for a Canada tourist visa is approximately CAD 100. This fee must be paid before submitting your application and can be made online using a credit or debit card.

Submit Biometrics: Most applicants are required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photos). After submitting your application, you will receive a biometric instruction letter, which will guide you on how to submit your biometrics at a local visa application center.

Schedule an Interview (if required): In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview at the Canadian embassy or consulate in your country. During the interview, you will be asked about your travel intentions, finances, and ties to your home country.

Submit the Application: Once all the steps are complete, you can submit your application online through your IRCC account. Keep the confirmation receipt, as you will need it to track the progress of your application.

Wait for Visa Decision: After submission, the Canadian immigration authorities will review your application. If approved, they will request your passport for visa stamping. The passport with the visa will be returned to you via mail or through a visa collection center.

Required Documents

In order to apply for a tourist visa to Canada, you need to submit the following paperwork:

Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended stay in Canada.

Visa Application Form (IMM 5257): A completed and signed visa application form, which can be filled out online through the IRCC portal.

Proof of Financial Stability: Bank statements, pay slips, income tax returns, or a letter from your sponsor proving that you have enough funds to cover your stay in Canada.

Passport-sized Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos that meet Canada’s visa photo requirements.

Travel Itinerary: A detailed travel itinerary, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, and a list of planned activities in Canada.

Proof of Return Ticket: A copy of your return or onward ticket showing that you plan to leave Canada after your visit.

Proof of Strong Ties to Your Home Country: This can include employment contracts, property ownership, or family relationships to show that you will return home.

Invitation Letter (if applicable): If you are visiting family or friends in Canada, a letter of invitation from your host may strengthen your application. This letter should include your host’s contact details, relationship to you, and their residency status in Canada.

Biometric Information: Most applicants will need to submit biometric data (fingerprints and photos) at a visa application center.

Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Canada tourist visa can vary depending on your country of residence and the time of year. On average, it takes around 2 to 8 weeks to process a visa application, though it can take longer if additional documentation is requested or if your application requires further scrutiny.

During peak travel periods, such as summer and the holiday season, processing times may be extended, so it is important to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.