VizaThe Canada Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is required for many nationalities. This guide covers the online application, documents, biometrics, and tips for getting approved.
Canada is one of the world's most popular destinations for tourism, family visits, and business travel. For nationals who need a visa — including Indian, Chinese, Filipino, and many other passport holders — the process is handled entirely online through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). Here is a complete breakdown.
Who Needs a Canada Visitor Visa?
Citizens of many countries need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) — commonly called a visitor visa — to enter Canada. This includes nationals of India, China, Pakistan, Philippines, Morocco, and many others.
Citizens of visa-exempt countries (including the UK, EU, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and others) do not need a TRV but must have an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation, CAD $7) to board a flight to Canada. Note: US citizens and permanent residents are exempt from both TRV and eTA when entering from the US.
Types of Visitor Visa
- Single-entry TRV: One entry only. Once you leave Canada, you cannot re-enter without a new visa.
- Multiple-entry TRV: Multiple entries permitted. Valid for up to 10 years or 1 month before your passport expires, whichever is earlier. IRCC now primarily issues multiple-entry visas.
Always apply for multiple-entry — the fee is the same (CAD $100) and it provides far more flexibility.
Application Process — Step by Step
Step 1: Create an IRCC account Apply online at ircc.canada.ca. Create an account and complete the online application. All documents are uploaded digitally — no paper submission required for most applicants.
Step 2: Complete the application form The IMM 5257 form covers: personal details, travel history, employment, family composition, and reason for visit. Complete it carefully — inconsistencies are grounds for refusal.
Step 3: Gather supporting documents See the full document list below.
Step 4: Pay the fee Application fee: CAD $100 (approximately USD $75). Biometrics fee: CAD $85 (required for most applicants aged 14-79).
Step 5: Submit biometrics After submitting your application and paying fees, you will receive a biometric instruction letter. Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to submit fingerprints and photo. You have 30 days to do this after receiving the letter.
Step 6: Wait for a decision Processing times vary by country of origin. Current average: 8-12 weeks, though it can be 4-6 weeks or up to 20+ weeks depending on application volume.
You can track your application status in your IRCC account.
Documents Required
- Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay, with blank pages)
- Digital photo (meeting IRCC specifications)
- Completed IMM 5257 application form
- Application and biometrics fees payment
- 6 months of bank statements showing sufficient funds
- Proof of income: pay slips, employment letter with salary confirmation
- If self-employed: business bank statements, business registration
- If retired: pension statements
- Itinerary with planned activities
- Hotel or accommodation bookings
- For family/friend visits: letter of invitation from Canadian host, their proof of status in Canada
- Employment letter confirming you are returning to your job
- Property ownership documents
- Evidence of family (spouse, children) remaining at home
- Evidence of financial obligations requiring your return
Family information form (IMM 5645): Required if any immediate family members (spouse, children) are not travelling with you.
Special Considerations for Indian Applicants
India is the highest-volume source country for Canada visitor visa applications, and processing times are particularly variable for Indian applicants. Key points:
- Submit biometrics promptly once instructed — delays here extend overall processing significantly
- Financial documents must show consistent, stable income — large irregular deposits are scrutinised
- Ties to India are the critical factor — strong employment and family ties are essential
- Refusal rates for first-time applicants from India are higher than average; a well-documented application with strong ties is essential
If You Are Refused
IRCC will send a refusal letter explaining the reason(s). You can reapply immediately with improved supporting documents. There is no formal waiting period.
- Insufficient financial evidence
- Weak ties to home country
- Incomplete documentation
- Travel history that suggests immigration risk
Unlike the US, Canada does not conduct in-person interviews for visitor visas — the decision is entirely document-based. This means your application package must speak for itself.
Entry at the Canadian Border
Even with a valid TRV, a CBSA officer at the port of entry makes the final admission decision and sets the length of your authorised stay. You can be admitted for up to 6 months regardless of how long you planned to stay. Keep your booking confirmations and return flight proof accessible.
Fees and procedures current as of 2026. Verify at ircc.canada.ca before applying.
VizaHunt Editorial Team
Visa & Travel Research
The VizaHunt editorial team researches visa policies, passport rankings, and travel regulations across 195 countries. Our data is sourced from official government immigration portals, bilateral treaty records, and embassy publications, cross-referenced for accuracy before publication.