Everything You Need to Know About Canada’s Visitor Visa

1. What Is a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)?

A visitor visa, officially called a temporary resident visa (TRV), is a document placed in your passport that shows you’ve been approved to enter Canada for a temporary stay.
It’s for people who want to visit Canada whether to see family, travel, or do business without staying permanently.

2. Do You Need a Visitor Visa or an eTA?

First, check whether you need a visitor visa or just an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
If you’re from a country that requires a visa, you must apply for a TRV.
If your country is visa-exempt, you might just need an eTA to fly to Canada.

3. Who Can Apply for a Visitor Visa

To qualify, you’ll need to meet a few conditions:

Prove that you’ll leave Canada at the end of your visit.
Show you have enough money to support yourself during your stay.
Have a valid travel document or passport.
Maybe provide a travel history (past visas, entry/exit stamps).
Submit a clear itinerary where you’ll stay, how long, and what you plan to do.
If someone in Canada is inviting you, a letter of invitation from them can strengthen your application.

4. How to Apply

Here’s how the process works:

Apply online (recommended) it’s faster and more convenient.
If you apply on paper, make sure to follow the instruction guide carefully.
Pay the fees: There’s a basic application fee starting at $100 CAD.
Biometrics: In many cases, you’ll need to give fingerprints and a photo.
Submit your supporting documents: passport, financial proof, itinerary, etc.
If relevant, fill form IMM 5475 to authorize someone to get updates or act for you.
Use form IMM 5476 if you're using a representative (lawyer or immigration consultant).

5. After You Apply

Wait for your application to be processed times vary depending on where you apply.
Be ready to respond if they ask for more information.
If you look for faster processing (for example, because you’re being sponsored for permanent residence), there are special cases.

6. Getting Ready for Arrival in Canada

When you arrive:

Be prepared to show your passport with visa, or your entry document.
Be honest with the border services officer about your travel plans, how long you’ll stay, and where you’ll stay.
Make sure you leave by the date on your visa or on your visitor record (if you’ve extended your stay).

7. Tips for a Strong Application

Provide clear evidence of your financial stability (bank statements, salary slips, etc.).
Show strong ties to your home country job, family, property, anything that proves you intend to return.
If visiting family/friends: get a detailed letter of invitation, including their contact details, status in Canada, and plans.
Plan a realistic itinerary: not too vague, but also flexible enough to cover your visit.
Submit clean, organized documents: legible scans, properly labeled, everything consistent.

8. Things to Watch Out For

Even with a visa, entry into Canada is not guaranteed the border officer makes the final decision.
Applying too close to your travel date can backfire; delays may happen, especially if they request more documents.
If your visa is refused, it could be because of lack of evidence, unclear plans, or weak ties back home.
Overstaying or violating your visa conditions can lead to serious future immigration problems.

Final Thoughts

Getting a visitor visa to Canada doesn’t have to be stressful. If you carefully prepare your documents, provide solid proof of your intentions and finances, and apply well in advance, you increase your chances of approval. Think of it like telling a story: where you’re going, how you’ll support yourself, and why you’ll come back home make that story as clear and honest as possible.

ApplyCan Team

20 Nov 2025

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Everything You Need to Know About Canada’s Visitor Visa