If you are not from a visa-exempt country and wish to visit Canada for tourism or to visit family, you will need to apply for a Canadian visitor visa. Here are the basic steps for applying for a Canadian visitor visa:
- Gather your documents: You will need to provide documents such as a passport, photo, application form, and the visa application fee. Additionally, you may need to provide supporting documents such as a travel itinerary, proof of funds, proof of property ownership, employment verification, tax documents, and more to demonstrate your ability to cover the costs of your trip to Canada, and to show the purpose of your visit and that you will not overstay in Canada.
- Apply online: Fill out the application form and upload the required documents, and pay the visa fee online on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. The application form will include personal information, family details, work experience, education background, travel plans, and more.
- Submit your application: After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation letter. Normally, once your application is approved, you will be asked to submit your original passport. You can submit your passport to the local Canadian Visa Application Centre.
- Processing time: The processing time for your application can take several weeks or months, depending on your country or region.
Please note that the Canadian visa application process may vary depending on your personal circumstances. Applicants from some countries or regions may also be required to provide additional documents and information. Therefore, we recommend that you carefully read the visa application guide for the visa office in your country of residence or consult with a licensed immigration consultant before applying for a visa.