If you intend to travel to Canada, you must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor Visa). This can be done online or by visiting a Canadian embassy, high commission, consulate overseas, or at a designated location, such as Visa Facilitation Services (VFS). Along with your application, you’ll need to include two passport-sized photos, proof of financial means, and a non-refundable processing fee.
To secure a visitor visa, you must provide specific documents:
1. You must furnish sufficient evidence to convince the visa officer that you possess the financial resources to cover all expenses during your stay in Canada.
2. If you are visiting relatives and they are assuming responsibility for your expenses, you must obtain a letter or statutory declaration from your relatives outlining their financial responsibility. Additionally, your relatives should demonstrate their financial capacity, possibly by providing a job letter, tax documents, bank statements, and so on.
3. The principal applicant and any dependents must hold valid and current passports or travel documents.
Temporary resident visas are mandatory for certain foreign nationals wishing to visit Canada. Whether you need one depends on your citizenship. If a visa is required, you must also meet the following conditions:
– Possess a valid travel document, like a passport.
– Be in good health; a medical examination may be required.
– Convince an immigration officer that you have strong ties to your home country, such as a job, residence, and family, which will ensure your return.
– Prove to an immigration officer that you intend to leave Canada after your visit.
– Have sufficient funds for your stay; the required amount can vary depending on the purpose and duration of your visit, as well as your accommodation arrangements.
– You may also need an invitation letter from a Canadian resident.
Some individuals are exempt from the requirement of a Temporary Resident Visa to enter Canada. This exemption is based on international agreements and treaties. Citizens of specific countries do not need a visa but require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) since March 15, 2016. To check if your country is exempt from visa requirements, you can visit this link: www.cic.gc.ca.