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Temporary Resident Visas (Visitor Visas) For Canada

Canada welcomes millions of temporary residents each year. except for canadian citizens and permanent residents, all other individuals require permission to enter canada as a visitor. this canadavisa page provides an overview of whether you need a temporary resident visa to enter canada..

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Table of Contents

Countries with conditional eligibility.

• Country Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Unless they are citizens of a visa-exempt country , individuals who wish to enter Canada for a temporary purpose, such as tourists, temporary foreign workers (individuals with work permits ) and international students (individuals on study permits ) must apply for and be granted a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) .

• To find out if you need a TRV before departure to Canada, click here .

Citizens of visa-exempt countries intending to travel to Canada by air are expected to have applied for an obtained an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)  before their departure to Canada. Exceptions to this include citizens of the United States, who do not require a TRV or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), and Green Card holders in the United States, who need an eTA to come to Canada, regardless of their nationality. Unless otherwise exempt from the requirement to obtain a TRV or an eTA, individuals who require a TRV do not require an eTA, and vice versa.

The TRV is a document issued by a Canadian Immigration Visa Office outside Canada, showing that the holder has satisfied the requirements for admission to Canada as a visitor. TRVs may be for single entry or multiple entry. As a general rule, tourists are admitted for a period of six months. Temporary foreign workers and international students are admitted for varying periods of time, as determined on a case-by-case basis. Extensions may be applied for from within Canada.

It is important to note that possession of a valid TRV does not necessarily mean that the Officer at the Canadian Port of Entry will admit the visitor into Canada. At the Port of Entry, all visitors must demonstrate that the purpose of their visit to Canada is of a temporary nature. Officers at the Port of Entry will deny admission to all persons who, in their opinion, do not intend to leave Canada at the expiry of their visitor status.

Items to note:

• Certain applicants may need to undergo a medical examination. This pertains to some individuals who intend to remain in Canada and have recently visited certain countries, as well as persons who intend to work in certain occupations in Canada. To learn more, click here .
• Criminality and medical issues  may prevent a visitor from entering Canada.
• Visitors to Canada must be able to prove their ability to support themselves during their intended temporary stay in Canada.
• Citizens of certain countries may need to provide biometric information. To learn which countries this applies to, click here .

Citizens of some countries may be eligible for an eTA if they meet all three of the following conditions. If not they will have to pursue a TRV to travel to Canada. 

To be eligible for an eTA these travellers must:

• The U.S. nonimmigrant visa must be valid on the day that an individual applies for their eTA, but doesn’t need to be valid when they travel to Canada.
• be coming to Canada for a short visit, business or tourist activity (normally for stays of up to 6 months); and
• arriving to Canada by air, or transiting through a Canadian airport using a valid passport from one of the eligible visa-required countries. 

These conditional eligibility rules for an eTA apply to citizens of the following (visa-required) countries:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

Country Checklist: Temporary Resident Visas

TRVs are required for citizens of certain countries. The chart below outlines which individuals require a TRV and which individuals need an eTA in order to enter Canada.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

1. What is a Temporary Resident Visa?

Canadian citizens and Canadian permanent residents have the right to enter Canada freely. Other visitors to Canada, including tourists , students , and workers , may need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to enter Canada.

2. Does everyone planning to visit Canada require a Temporary Resident Visa?

No. You do not need a Temporary Resident Visa to visit Canada if you are from a visa-exempt country. In this case, a visa-exempt person flying to Canada would need to apply for and obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding his or her flight. If traveling to Canada over land, a visa-exempt person does not need either a TRV or an eTA.

Citizens from all other countries must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa before entering Canada, unless otherwise exempt.

Use our Visiting Canada Tool to determine what you need to do before traveling to Canada.

3. Do I need a Study Permit if I plan to study in Canada?

If your studies will last less than six months in Canada, then no Study Permit is required. Any studies beyond six months require a Study Permit, in addition to a Temporary Resident Visa, if you are not from a visa-exempt country .

4. How do I qualify for a Work Permit to work in Canada?

There are many ways to qualify for a Work Permit . In some situations, the Canadian employer must demonstrate that they were unable to find Canadian citizens or Canadian permanent residents to fill the position.

5. What can I do if my application for a TRV is refused?

If your TRV application is refused, there is no formal appeal process. In addition, you may only reapply if your situation has changed substantially or you have considerable new information to submit.

6. What can I do to help a friend or family member obtain a TRV to visit Canada?

If your friend or family member requires a TRV to visit Canada, their initial application must be made outside the country, at the visa office responsible for the applicant's country or region. You may provide them with a Letter of Invitation, explaining how you will help the person to visit Canada. For example, you may state that you will pay for plane tickets or accommodation. While a Letter of Invitation may help a TRV application, it does not guarantee that the person will receive a visa.

7. What documents are required for the application?

In addition to the application forms and required fees, you will need to submit photos, proof of financial support, a photocopy of your return ticket or travel itinerary (if applicable), and any other documents required by the visa office responsible for your country or region.

8. I am a US resident with a Green Card. Do I need to apply for a TRV?

No. You may simply present your passport and your valid Green Card at the Canadian border if traveling over land. If you are flying into Canada, you would need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

9. Can I fill out one application for my family if we are traveling together?

No, each family member must complete and sign the required forms. Parents or guardians may help their children fill out the forms, and will need to sign for any children under the age of 18. All the applications can be submitted in one envelope, with one payment receipt for the total fee for all applications.

10. How long can I stay in Canada on my TRV?

If there is no stamp, handwritten date or document in your passport indicating an expiry date, your status as a temporary resident will expire six months from the day you arrive in Canada.

11. How can I extend my stay?

You may apply online or using a paper application to extend your status as a temporary resident. You should submit your application for an extended stay in Canada at least 30 days before your status expires. If your temporary resident status expires after you submit your application for an extension but before you receive a decision on the application, you may remain in Canada under maintained status . This status lasts until a decision is made on your new application.

12. Can I study in Canada on my TRV?

In general, international students require a study permit to pursue an educational program in Canada. However, there are several exceptions to this rule. If your program in Canada is less than six months in duration you do not require a study permit, although it may be a good idea to apply for one in case you decide to continue your studies. As well, you may study in Canada without a study permit if you are a family member or staff member of a foreign representative accredited by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. You should contact your embassy in Canada for more information. In addition, if you are a member of a foreign armed force under the Visiting Forces Act, you will not be required to obtain a study permit. If your family members wish to study in Canada, they must meet the requirements. Finally, if you are in Canada on a work permit or student visa, your minor children can study at the secondary or elementary level. They must first enter Canada on a visitor visa.

13. Can I work in Canada on my TRV?

As a general rule, a foreign national must obtain a Work Permit in order to work in Canada, although there are some exceptions.

14. Do I need a TRV to come to Canada on business?

If you are from a country that requires a visa to visit Canada, you will need to apply for a TRV just like any other visitor to Canada. The application is the same as for a visitor visa. For more information, please visit our page on Business Visitors .

Contact the Cohen Immigration Law Firm for Assistance

Do you need professional assistance getting Canadian TRV? The Cohen Immigration Law Firm can help. We offer over 45 years of Canadian immigration expertise.

Please complete our short form to submit your question directly to our law firm. One of our lawyers will contact you to schedule a free telephone consultation.

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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted the department's second Express Entry draw in as many days. Here are the results of IRCC's latest Express Entry draw, which occurred on April 11, 2024.

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Visitor Visa checklist: Everything you need to apply and visit Canada

A visitor visa is needed to come to Canada as a tourist, or on a quick trip to visit family, or do business for individuals of many countries.

Anyone who is not a permanent or temporary resident of Canada (those with a work or study permit) will need a visitor visa to enter the country. However, citizens of certain countries do not need a visitor visa and can instead pursue an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). eTAs are a more streamlined form or travel authorisation available to nationals of countries that have visa-free travel agreements with Canada. For answers to common questions on eTAs, click here .

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

What is needed to get a Canadian visitor visa?

1. Complete the needed forms

Depending on whether you are applying inside or outside of Canada, you will need to fill in different forms. Those applying outside of Canada will require:

• Application for temporary resident visa (IMM 5257);
• Family information form (IMM 5707);
• Statutory declaration of common-law union (IMM 5409);
• Use of representative (IMM 5476)—Note this is only required if you have used the services of a representative, or if you are appointing or cancelling use of a representative; and
• Authority to release personal information to a designated individual (IMM 5475)—Note this form is only required if you authorise Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to release information from your case file to someone other than yourself (i.e.: a representative or authorised relative).

2. Collect the needed documentation

In addition to the above forms, applicants for a visitor visa will need to following documentation in support of their request:

• Receipt of fee payment;
• A photocopy of the information page of your passport, including: the passport number, issuance and expiry dates, and your photo, name, issue date, and place of birth;
• Two photos meeting the requirements of the visa application photograph specifications . On the back of these two photos applicants must write their name and date of birth. If applicants are required to provide biometric fingerprints and photo they do not have to attach these photos;
• Proof of financial support, proving that you can support yourself and any family member accompanying you while you are in Canada;
• Photocopy of your marriage license or certificate (if relevant);
• Letter explaining the purpose of your travel;
• Photocopy of your current immigration status (if your country of residence differs from the country of citizenship listed on your passport, you must provide proof of legal status in your country of residence);
• Minors travelling alone or with one parent must provide custody documents or a letter of authorisation from the other non-accompanying parent of a letter of authorisation signed by both parent or legal guardians; and
• Any other additional documents required by the responsible visa office in your region.

Note that application forms completed online must be completed and validated with the generation of a barcode. If completed on a computer, these barcodes will be automatically attached to the immigration forms, otherwise they must be printed and placed at the top of an application if applying by paper.

How to pay required fees and prove fee payment to IRCC

There are two kinds of fees that applicants for a visitor visa may need to pay. These are application processing fees, and biometric fees. Those who do not need to provide biometrics may be exempt from the second set of fees—find out if you need to give biometrics here .

Application processing fees for visitor visas are $100 CAD per person, and $500 CAD for a family (five or more people).

Biometrics fees on the other hand are $85 CAD per person, and $170 per family (two or more people).

These fees may be subject to change and cannot be refunded regardless of the decision reached on your application. In addition, the only accepted method to pay these fees is online.

After following the given instructions and completing the process, you must wait until an official IRCC receipt is issued with a barcode. Applicants are advised to save this file and attach a copy of it to their application.

How to provide proof of financial support

There are several documents that you can use to prove that you can support yourself and any dependents that accompany you while you are visiting Canada.

Some examples include cash, certified cheque, bank draft, or money order in a large enough amount to cover all reasonable expenses incurred during your stay in Canada.

In addition, written or verbal statements (which can be verified) can also be used, provided that they satisfy an officer that sufficient financial support from friends and/or family has been arranged and can cover reasonable incurable expenses during your stay.

Other documents include bank statements, a letter of employment or previous tax filing information,

How to write a “purpose of travel” letter

All foreign nationals entering Canada must be able to satisfy an officer at their time of entry that they have legitimate reasons to enter and reside in Canada. In the context of a visitor visa, this can often also include proving that you (the foreign national) will leave Canada once the period of your authorised stay expires.

In some cases, visitor visa applicants may also need a letter of invitation from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident .

Applying with family members

Visitor visa applicants wishing to bring their family with them on their trip to Canada must complete an application form for each family member. All applications may be submitted together online or at the VAC where you will send your application on paper. A single receipt may also be given for all included applications.

Lastly all family members and dependents must meet all requirements for temporary residence in Canada.

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How do I submit my application?

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) applications

The eTA application form is available online. Apply now for an eTA .

Temporary resident applications (visitor visa, study permit or work permit)

For online applications:.

Currently, we accept online applications for all temporary resident applications, except for temporary resident permits.

Start by answering a few questions to find out which immigration programs you can apply for. If you are eligible, we will give you instructions on how to submit your online application.

For paper applications:

For temporary resident applications made outside Canada, you may:

• apply through an IRCC office or,
• a visa application centre .

Inside Canada, most people must apply online. Find out more about applying to visit , work or study in Canada.

Permanent resident applications

Where to send your application depends on which permanent resident program you apply for. Instructions on where to send your application are in the “Mail the application” section of the application guide .

Citizenship applications

All applications to become a Canadian citizen or resume your Canadian citizenship must be sent to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney (CPC-S).

Where you send applications to give up (renounce) your citizenship, get proof of citizenship (citizenship certificate) or to search the citizenship records depends on where you live.

• If you live in Canada or the United States, send your application to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney (CPC-S).
• If you live outside Canada and outside the United States, send your application to the Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate responsible for your area.

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Find out if you're eligible to apply

What would you like to do in canada.

Permits and/or visas may need to be issued, depending on what you want to do in Canada.

A permit is an official document issued by the Government of Canada and authorizes you to work or study while in Canada.

Select the code that matches the one on your passport.

Find this code on your passport information page - see the field named "Code", "Issuing country", "Authority" or "Country code".

What is your current country / territory of residence? If you are presently in Canada, you should select Canada.

The country a person is living in. A person's country of residence may be different from their country or countries of citizenship.

What is your date of birth?

If you do not know your date of birth, enter the date that appears on your passport, travel document or identity document.

If you do not know your exact date of birth, give as much information as possible.

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Plan your unforgettable Canadian adventure with ease! Discover how to apply for a tourist visa to Canada and explore its stunning

Everything You Need to Know About Canada's Tourist Visa

Kelia Losa Reinoso is a qualified content writer with a Master of Arts degree in Journalism and Media Studies

Dreaming of experiencing Canada's breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse culture? Embarking on a journey to this captivating country starts with understanding the ins and outs of obtaining a tourist visa.

Whether you're planning a short visit to reconnect with family, explore stunning natural wonders, or discover urban delights, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to navigate the process seamlessly.

From eligibility criteria and application procedures to travel restrictions and tips for a successful application, we've got you covered. Let us unravel everything you need to know about tourist visas for Canada with your top questions answered below.

Canada's Tourist Visa: Your Questions Answered

You may be wondering how you can visit Canada and what procedure you need to follow. Get ready to uncover all the answers as we dive into the details of tourist visas, from eligibility and application procedures to travel tips and restrictions.

What is Canada’s Tourist Visa?

In essence, it allows you to travel to and around Canada for a limited period, typically up to 6 months. It's important to note that while on a tourist visa, engaging in work or study activities is prohibited, aligning with the visa's intended scope and restrictions. Its primary purpose is to enable tourists to experience Canada's wonders and connect with its way of life.

What is the Difference Between a Tourist Visa and an eTA?

When planning a trip to Canada, it's crucial to understand the distinction between a Tourist Visa and an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). These two entry permits serve different purposes and apply to different travelers.

Tourist Visa

A Tourist Visa, also known as a Visitor Visa, is a traditional visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Canada for a temporary stay, typically up to six months. It's a document placed in your passport and is obtained through a Canadian consulate or embassy. Tourist Visas are typically required for citizens of countries that are not visa-exempt or eligible for an eTA.

eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)

An eTA, on the other hand, is an electronic entry requirement designed for visa-exempt foreign nationals who are traveling to Canada by air. It's a simpler and faster way to gain entry clearance than a full-fledged visa. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It's crucial to note that the eTA is only applicable if you're flying to Canada; if you're arriving by land or sea, you won't need an eTA.

How do I Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa?

Step 1: Complete Online Application

Visit the official Canadian immigration website and fill out the tourist visa application form accurately.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect necessary documents such as a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of funds, travel history, and a letter of invitation (if applicable).

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

Pay the required visa application fee through the online portal using a valid payment method.

Step 4: Biometrics Appointment

Schedule and attend a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC) if instructed.

Step 5: Submit Application

Submit your completed application form and supporting documents online through the official portal.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

Wait for your application to be processed. This may take several weeks, so be patient.

Step 7: Attend Visa Interview (if required)

If asked, attend an interview at the nearest Canadian consulate or embassy.

Step 8: Receive Visa Decision

You will be notified of the visa decision. If approved, follow the instructions to receive your passport with the visa.

What Documents Do I Need For a Tourist Visa?

How much does the canadian tourist visa cost.

A Canadian tourist visa otherwise known as a visitor visa or even a temporary resident visa costs CAD100 and allows you to stay in Canada for up to 6 months but is valid for ten years or until your passport expires. If it’s your first time applying for a Canadian visa, you must include your biometrics (fingerprints and photos) at an additional cost of CAD85.

Who is Eligible for a Canada eTA?

If you are a citizen of a country that is visa-exempt in Canada, then you are eligible for an eTA and you will need one to in order to get into the country. Those who are not visa-exempt will need to apply for tourist visas. The list of eTA eligible countries are listed in the table below:

How Do I Apply for an eTA?

Step 1: visit the official website.

Go to the official Canadian government website dedicated to eTA applications.

Step 2: Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for an eTA. Most travelers from visa-exempt countries require an eTA to enter Canada by air.

Step 3: Gather Documents

Have your valid passport, a credit card, and your travel details ready.

Step 4: Start Application

Begin the online application by providing personal information, passport details, and travel plans.

Step 5: Answer Questions

Respond to a few questions about your health, criminal history, and travel purposes.

Step 6: Submit Payment

Pay the eTA processing fee using a credit card. The fee is typically lower than a traditional visa.

Step 7: Review and Submit

Carefully review the information you've provided before submitting the application.

Step 8: Wait for Approval

In most cases, you'll receive a decision within minutes. However, it's recommended to apply at least a few days before your departure.

Step 9: Check Your Email

If approved, you'll get an email with your eTA confirmation. It's electronically linked to your passport.

Step 10: Travel to Canada

Board your flight to Canada. When you arrive, the airline staff will verify your eTA before you can board.

Does Canada have any COVID-19 Travel Restrictions?

As of October 1, 2022, the border measures related to COVID-19 have ceased for all individuals arriving or coming back to Canada via air, land, or sea.

Top Tourist Destinations in Canada

Now that you know how to visit Canada, let’s get you excited about traveling around the Great White North. Whether you’re exploring Canada with a group tour or planning your own itinerary, here are some of the must-see sights in Canada.

The Cabot Trail is one of the Seven Wonders of Canada and is located in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. With 26 hiking trails that range from easy strolls to challenging climbs - all leading to panoramic views of canyons, highlands, waterfalls, and coastlines, you have plenty of hiking adventures to plan in Cape Breton.

Ski at Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America located in Whistler, British Columbia. Plan your ski trip from January to March right in time for fresh snowfall and the best skiing and/or snowboarding experience. The resort further offers sophisticated lounge-style restaurants and bars where you can feast with incredible views of Blackcomb Mountain.

Sightsee in Old Montreal

If hiking and action-packed snow activities do not tickle your fancy, you might enjoy exploring the quaint cobblestone streets and architecture from the 16th century in Montreal - Quebec’s largest-French speaking city. A visit to the city is not complete without a stop at the Notre-Dame Basilica and Habitat 67. And don’t forget to indulge your sweet tooth with a frozen maple syrup lollipop from Sugar Shack.

Take a Cruise to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls are world-famous waterfalls situated in Ontario, Niagara Falls. It’s one of the top tourist destinations in Canada, and for good reason. The thundering of 3,160 tons of water every second gives any spectator goosebumps. You can choose how you want to experience this natural world wonder with many unique and exciting activities that can be pre-booked on Tripadvisor, like a cruise that takes you as close as possible to the falls.

Inside Banff National Park you’d discover plenty of gems, including Lake Louise. The famous crystal clear turquoise water makes it one of the most Instragrammable lakes in the world. Canoeing is an iconic activity for travelers visiting Canada, and for CAD105, you and three friends can hire a canoe for one hour to paddle across Lake Louise, take in incredible nature, and spot small creatures in the park.

Chill at a Hip Gastown Bar in Van-City

Gastown is Vancouver's oldest neighborhood that seamlessly combines old style with contemporary elements. It’s home to the hottest restaurants and bars, making it a great pick for an incredible night out. You’ll also enjoy shopping at the city's independent fashion boutiques and modern gift stores while exploring the many art galleries that line the cobblestone streets.

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How to Apply Canada Visitor Visa (with Sample Travel Itinerary)

Canada visitor visa application for 10 yrs or passport expiry date. Biometric required. Online application faster without interview. Sample Travel Itinerary.

Canada visitor visas can be obtained without even a visa interview. Canada has a very streamlined process to send your passport and get the stamped visitor visa by postal mail.

Canada visa officer will decide if an interview is required for your specific case and call you if one is needed.

If you have any US visa stamped in your current or old passport like a US B1/B2 or any work visa like H1B, L visa, the chances are very high that you will get a Canadian visitor visa without an interview.

This article will discuss:

Documents Required

Visa processing time, sample travel itinerary.

#1 Passport

All old expired and current valid passport color copies.

Scan the following pages preferably using your smartphone app or a scanner at home:

• Frontpage showing your photo
• Last page showing your address
• All existing entry-exit stamps in the passport
• All valid or expired visa stamps from any country

You can use various apps and cloud storage services to scan and keep all your visa documents easily accessible .

#2 Bank statement

Showing last 3-month bank balance.

Make sure you have enough money to pay for your Canada trip as per your itinerary.

I suggest using your salary account which shows pay credits.

#3 Employment Letter

If you are currently employed in your country, an employment verification letter is recommended.

#4 Current Country Valid Status

If you are applying for a Canadian visa in a country that is not the same as your passport, then you need to provide proof of valid status.

If you are working in the US on an H1B visa with an Indian passport, you need to provide your valid H1B i797 copy as proof.

#5 Scanned Photograph

You can get your passport-size photo created online as you would need it for uploading with your application.

Your photo will be taken again at the VFS center.

#6 Application for Visitor Visa (Temporary resident Visa) – IMM 5257

#7 Application for Temporary Residence – IMM 5257 Schedule 1

#8 Family Information Form – IMM 5645

#9 Last 3 months Pay Slips

#10 Marriage Certificate (if married) and applying as a family

#11 Travel Itinerary – The sample is given below

#12 Visa Fees Payment Receipt

You can pay online by credit/debit card.

There are no extra surcharges but it may vary based on the country you are applying from.

Online Process

#1 Create an account on the Canada CIC website .

If you already have a login, you can simply sign in using your GCKey (basically the Canadian CIC website password).

The solution to log-in loop error Canada CIC website .

#2 Upload all required documents and apply.

#3 An email is received for the biometric letter.

Print the Biometric letter and make an appointment.

You get 30 days to give your fingerprints after the Biometric letter has been generated. The last date will be mentioned in the letter too.

• If you are outside Canada or the United States, you can go to any Visa Application Centre (VAC) .
• If you are in the United States, you may go to a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Application Support Center (ASC) or a Visa Application Centre (VAC) .

What to expect at USCIS ASC Center biometric experience in the USA .

#4 Once biometrics is done, you will wait for a decision on your application.

#5 You will get an email once a decision is made. You will be asked to submit your passport.

Passport Request Letter

Once the visa officer has processed your application, you will get an email and a letter will be available in your CIC dashboard.

The chances are 99% that your visa has been approved if you get a passport submission request.

You can submit your passport within 30 days of the passport request.

#6 Submit your passport.

You can expect your passport back with a visa stamp within 1-3 working days.

The Canada visitor visa processing time is 21-40 calendar days.

This timeline is shown from a real Canada visitor application where the application was submitted online on Sep 15.

Biometric was completed on Sep 23 at the VFS Canada Application Center in Sydney, Australia.

Travel Itinerary

PURPOSE : My purpose is to take a short tourism trip to see Niagara Falls from the Canadian side while going to the USA. 

Here is what I plan to do: Sep 16 – Take a flight from Sydney, Australia to Toronto, Canada. 

Sep 17 – Arrive in Canada. I plan to stay at the Holiday Inn in Niagara Falls.

am22tech.com

Sep 18 – Visit CN tower in the morning. Visit Niagara Falls on the Canadian side in the afternoon. 

Sep 19 – Take a flight from Canada to Dallas, USA

Please note that in the event I do not obtain a Canadian visitor visa in time to be able to book the flight tickets for these dates, I will plan to visit Canada from the USA if I have a visitor visa at that time.

Trip Cost Planning

You will need biometrics if you have never given your fingerprints for any Canadian Visa in the last 10 years.

Canadian biometrics is valid for 10 years.

Canadian Biometric fees are CAD $85 at this time and CAD $170 if applying with a family.

You need a biometric appointment. VFS manages the biometric process for a Canadian visa. It takes about 15 minutes to take fingerprints but waiting time depends on each VFS center and their individual workload.

Online Canadian visitor visa application is faster than physical application by at least 10 working days. Your application saves time on postal mail and you can get your visa faster.

A Canadian visitor visa is issued for 10 years or up to the passport validity date. Example: If your passport validity is less than 10 years, then the Canada visitor visa validity date will be the same as your passport expiry date.

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Biometrics are your fingerprints and photo. We collect your biometrics so we can confirm your identity. This information is also used to help assess your application.

Unless you’re exempt, you need to give your fingerprints and a photo when you apply for any of the following:

• temporary residence (except US nationals)
• permanent residence
• to extend your stay in Canada, unless you’re from a visa-exempt country
• refugee or asylum status
• Canadian citizens, citizenship applicants (including passport applicants), or existing permanent residents
• those coming to visit Canada only and applying for an eTA
• children under the age of 14
• applicants over the age of 79 (there is no upper age exemption for asylum claimants)
• heads of state and heads of government
• applicants who qualify for or hold a diplomatic or official visa
• US visa holders transiting through Canada
• applicants applying for a visitor visa, a study permit or a work permit who have already provided biometrics for a permanent resident application that’s still being processed

Individual applicant : CAN$85

Families applying at the same time : maximum total fee of CAN$170

Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff  who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of CAN$255

There is  no  fee to give biometrics for a  transit visa .

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Client Application Status

This on-line service allows Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) clients to view securely the status of their immigration and/or citizenship application(s) on-line, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; anytime, anywhere.

Applicants for permanent residence can receive instant email updates and more detailed, up-to-date case status by creating an online account. Find out how .

You may use this service if you have:

• sponsored a member of the family class;
• applied for permanent residence from within or outside Canada;
• applied for a permanent resident card;
• applied for Canadian citizenship (grant of citizenship);
• applied for Canadian citizenship for a person adopted by a Canadian citizen;
• applied for a citizenship certificate (proof of Canadian citizenship);
• applied to renounce Canadian citizenship; or
• applied to resume Canadian citizenship.

Before using this service, please be sure to have a copy of all the documents you have received regarding your application(s):

These may include one or more of the following:

• a copy of your application;
• your financial receipts (IMM 5401); or
• any letter or official document issued to you by IRCC.

Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section for answers to frequently asked questions.

Please consult Application Processing Times for information about how long it may take to process your application.

The Client Application Status site is updated daily.

If you are inactive on this application for 30 minutes or more, you will be 'Timed-Out'. It is a security feature to ensure your identity and to protect your information.

Thank you for your help!

You will not receive a reply. For enquiries, please contact us .

PRD Version 6.11.0_b1 Date: 2023-10-18 10:03

Update May 10, 2024

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Use only Internet Explorer 11 or higher, Firefox, or Google Chrome 58 when completing your application.  Safari and Microsoft Edge are not supported.

The DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is for temporary travel to the United States, and for K (fiancé(e)) visas. Form DS-160 is submitted electronically to the Department of State website via the Internet. Consular Officers use the information entered on the DS-160 to process the visa application and, combined with a personal interview, determine an applicant’s eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa.

Visa applicants must submit a completed DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application for all nonimmigrant visa categories, including applicants applying for K visas. ( Note:   For K visa cases in process at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate prior to October 7, 2013, review the limited exceptions explained in the FAQs below.) 

Review the Frequently Asked Questions for instructions about using the DS-160.

Access the online DS-160 by clicking: Consular Electronic Application Center website .

Important Notice to Visa Applicants: After you have completed the DS-160, you must take these next steps below:

• Print and keep the DS-160 barcode page. (You will not need to print the full application.)
• You must schedule a visa interview appointment.  (The U.S. Embassy or Consulate does not schedule an appointment for you.) Visit the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  website where you will be interviewed for country-specific instructions.;
• Pay the visa application processing fee . Review country-specific instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  website.

More Information

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