Canada Tourist Visa: A Complete Document Checklist for 2024

Canada boasts a wide range of tourist attractions, including iconic landmarks such as Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, and the CN Tower.

Canada's tourism industry is a major contributor to its economy. Thus, attracting millions of visitors annually.

If you are also dreaming of exploring Canada, there's a tiny hurdle: getting your Canadian tourist visa. Don't worry, though! We're here to simplify things for you. This guide will break down the documents required for a Canada Tourist Visa in plain language.

What is a Canada Tourist Visa?

The Canada tourist visa is a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). It allows foreign nationals to visit Canada for leisure, tourism, or visiting someone. It's issued for a duration of up to six months. Although extensions may be possible in certain circumstances.

Who needs a Canada Visitor Visa?

People who need a Canada Visitor Visa are those from countries that don't have a visa-exemption agreement with Canada. In simple terms, if you're from a country not on Canada's visa-exempt list, you'll need a visitor visa to enter the country.

For example, citizens of the United States or the European Union don't need a visitor visa. But folks from countries like India or China do.

So foreign nationals from not-visa exempt country need Visitor :

• Leisure and tourism purpose
• Meet family and friends
• Business purpose

Why Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa?

Here are the top 10 reasons to apply for the Canada Tourist Visa:

• Explore Canada's vast natural beauty, from its lakes and rivers to breathtaking landscapes.
• Encounter diverse wildlife and discover the wonders of 41 national parks.
• Admire the stunning black-blue lakes and towering mountains that define Canada's scenery.
• Immerse yourself in Canada's rich cultural diversity and festive atmosphere.
• Feel the warmth of Canadian hospitality as locals welcome you with open arms.
• Enjoy thrilling outdoor adventures, from hiking and kayaking to skiing.
• Experience the vibrant culture and entertainment in Canada's dynamic cities.
• Travel with peace of mind in one of the world's safest countries.
• Savor the flavours of Canada's diverse cuisine, blending global influences.
• Discover iconic landmarks like the CN Tower and Old Quebec City, steeped in history.

Minimum Requirements for a Canada Visitor Visa

• Ensure your passport remains valid for the duration of your stay in Canada.
• Clearly state the reason for your trip. The reason can be tourism, visiting family, or conducting business.
• Prove that you have enough money to cover your expenses during your stay.
• If applicable, provide a letter of invitation from a host in Canada, such as a family member or friend.
• Submit a police clearance certificate to verify that you have no criminal convictions.
• Show evidence of strong ties to your home country. The proof can be employment, property ownership, or family commitments. It indicates your intention to return after your visit.

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Canada Visit Visa Requirements in 2024- Kansas®

What are the Documents Required for a Canada Tourist Visa?

In the table below you will find a list of all the important documents required for Canada Tourist Visa:

Valid Passport

Your passport should be genuine and have a validity extending at least six months beyond your intended stay in Canada. When applying for a Canada Visa, include two photocopies of the passport's information page containing details such as

• Date of issue and expiry
• Passport number,
• Personal information like photo, name, date of birth, and place of birth.

Visa Application Form

You need to download the visa application form from the IRCC website and fill it out accurately. After that, submit the completed form along with other necessary documents like:

• Photographs
• Fee receipts
• Passport copies,
• Any additional documents required.

Passport-size Photographs

Make sure to include recent, passport-sized photographs that meet Canada's specifications. You'll need to provide at least two colour photographs that comply to these requirements.

• Proof of Travel Arrangements:
• Make sure to include a detailed travel itinerary that outlines:
• Your round-trip flight details
• Acommodation arrangements
• Planned activities,
• Destinations you intend to visit during your stay in Canada.

Proof of Funds

Prove your financial capability to cover expenses while in Canada. These are the following documents that you have to submit as proof of funds:

• Bank statements
• Letter of employment (to show your annual earnings)
• Financial support evidence from friends/family to cover your expenses during your stay.
• Income evidence of the person who will host you during your stay in Canada
• Other financial proofs like property, PPFs, shares, FDs, etc
• Tax filing documents for the last 3 years

Letter of invitation

If you plan to stay with friends or relatives in Canada, a letter of invitation from the host is necessary. Further, their contact details and proof of status in Canada may be necessary to support the visa application.

Additionally, business visa applicants must provide a letter of invitation from the host company or business in Canada. While those sponsored by a Canadian resident should include a letter of invitation from their sponsor.

Cover Letter

Writing a detailed cover letter specifying the purpose of your visit is necessary. It is important for persuading the Government of Canada to grant you a Tourist Visa is essential for a successful application.

Proof of Intent to Return

Present documentation showing ties to your home country. It includes property ownership, employment, or family commitments, to show your intent to return after your visit. You can use these documents as a proof:

• Property deeds,
• Lease agreements,
• Employment contracts.

In case of an employment contract provide a letter from your employer. This letter must disclose your position, salary, approved leave of absence, and any relevant employment documents.

Proof of Good Health

You must undergo a medical examination administered by a designated Panel Physician. This is to verify your good health, which is a rule for the visa application process.

Police Clearance Certificate

For a clean record, applicants may need to provide a police clearance certificate as a proof. This indicates no criminal history, from their home country or any country of residence where they lived for over six months.

Note: For the students, ID card is mandatory. For retired applicants, need to show their pension slips and retirement proofs along with other documents.

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Your Complete Guide to Canada Business Visa

Documents Requirements for Minors

When travelling with minors, you'll need some extra documents:

• Passport and Birth Certificate Copies: Bring along copies of the minor's passport and birth certificate.
• Letter of Authorization: If the minor is traveling alone or with one parent, you'll need a letter signed by both parents or legal guardians.
• Accompanied by Legal Guardians or Adoptive Parents: Bring along the guardianship or adoption papers.
• Accompanied by Non-Parent or Guardian: If the minor is with someone who isn't a parent or guardian, make sure to have written permission from the parents or guardians, including their contact details.

Application modes

There are two modes of application online or offline:

• Online Application: Go to the official website and follow the steps to submit your application, including biometrics if required.
• Offline Application: Go to the nearest Visa Application Center, submit documents, and pay fees.

How to Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa?

Learn More

7 Steps To Apply For Canadain Visit Visa | 2024 Rules

What is the Fee Required to Apply for Canada Tourist Visa?

For the tourist visa, the fee required is:

• Application fee: 100 CAD (6,140 INR approx.)
• Biometrics fee: 85 CAD (5,219 INR approx.)
  
  

Funds Needed for a Canada Tourist Visa

An individual living in Canada needs 1,230 CAD (INR 75,525 approx.) per month for their monthly expenses, and if an applicant is coming for tourism, then 2,000 CAD (INR 1,22,805 approx.) for 30 days per person is enough.

This amount is an addition to the visa fees.

Processing Time for the Canada Tourist Visa

Processing time for the Canada Tourist Visa typically takes 10-15 working days. This period excludes the time taken for providing biometrics and any transit time between Visa Application Centers (VAC) and the visa office.

Note: Visitor Visas are non-immigrant visas. This means they are intended for temporary stays. Hence they do not grant permanent residency or citizenship rights.

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How Can Kansas Help?

At Kansas Overseas Careers, we're here to make your tourist visa application process smooth and stress-free. Here's how we can assist you:

Consultation: We'll sit down with you for a personalized consultation. We will understand your travel plans, preferred destinations, and visa requirements.

Documentation Assistance: We'll guide you through the gathering and organization of all necessary documents.

Application Support: We'll help you navigate the visa application process. We will assist with form filling, appointment scheduling, and submission to the relevant authorities.

Visa Interview Preparation: We'll provide valuable insights and tips to prepare you for your visa interview. It will ensur you feel confident and ready to address any questions.

Follow-up and Updates: We'll keep you informed about the progress of your visa application. Thus we will provide regular updates and notifying you of any changes or additional requirements.

Other FAQs

1. How much bank balance is required for Canada visitor visa?

The amount of bank balance required for a Canada visitor visa depends on various factors such as

• Duration of stay
• Intended activities,
• Personal circumstances.

Generally, you need to show sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Canada. This includes accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses. There is no fixed amount. But having a substantial balance in your bank account improves your chances of visa approval.

2. Why did your application for a Canada tourist visa get denied?

There could be several reasons why a Canada tourist visa application might be denied. Common reasons include

• Incomplete or incorrect documentation
• Insufficient funds
• Lack of ties to the home country
• Failure to meet eligibility criteria
• Concerns about the purpose of the visit
• Past immigration violations or criminal history.

It's essential to carefully review the requirements and guidelines before applying. This will increase the chances of approval.

3. How do you know if I need a visitor visa before I travel to Canada?

Whether you need a visitor visa to travel to Canada depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of certain countries may be eligible for visa exemptions. This allows them to travel to Canada for short visits without a visa.

You can check the official website of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You can also consult with the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate to determine if you need a visitor visa before traveling to Canada.

4. What is the cost and time of processing a Canada visitor visa?

The cost and processing time for a Canada visitor visa can vary. The application fee for a visitor visa is typically 100 CAD per person, with additional fees for biometrics if required.

The processing time is usually around 10-15 working days. But, it can vary depending on factors

• Volume of applications
• Applicant's country of residence
• Individual circumstances.

5. What are some important things to consider when collecting your documents for a Canada visit visa?

When collecting documents for a Canada visit visa, it's essential to ensure they are accurate, complete, and up-to-date. Key documents to include:

• Valid passport
• Proof of funds to cover expenses
• Travel itinerary
• Letter of invitation (if applicable),
• Any other supporting documents requested by the visa office.

Double-checking the requirements and organizing your documents neatly can help streamline the application process.

6. How much funds are required for a study visa in Canada?

The amount of funds required for a study visa in Canada depends on various factors such as:

• Duration of the study program
• Tuition fees
• Cost of living,

Generally, applicants need to show they have enough funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation. Specific financial requirements are outlined by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

7. What kind of visa do you need when transiting through Canada?

If you are transiting through Canada to another country, you may need a transit visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). It depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay.

Transit visas are required for citizens of certain countries. But, others may be eligible for an eTA, which allows visa-exempt travelers to transit through Canada for short periods.

8. How long can you stay in Canada on a Canadian visitor visa?

Generally, visitors to Canada can stay for up to six months on a Canadian visitor visa. However, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer at the port of entry determines the actual duration of stay granted

Visitors may be allowed to stay for less than six months. This depends on the purpose of their visit and the officer's discretion.

9. What are the Canada tourist visa eligibility criteria?

The eligibility criteria for a Canada tourist visa include:

• Having a valid passport
• Demonstrating sufficient funds to cover expenses during the visit
• Providing a letter of invitation (if applicable), among others.

10. What are the conditions for extending a visitor visa to Canada?

The conditions for extending a visitor visa to Canada are:

• Visa Validity: Ensure your current visa is still valid or apply before it expires.
• Eligibility: Meet IRCC's criteria for extending visitor visas.
• Purpose: Have valid reasons for extension like tourism or visiting family.
• Application: Submit required forms and documents before visa expiry.
• Compliance: Adhere to visa conditions and regulations.
• Financial Stability: Demonstrate sufficient funds for extended stay.
• Medical Exam: Undergo if necessary for admissibility.
• Decision: IRCC reviews applications and makes decisions based on eligibility and compliance.

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