Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa)

Visit Canada for tourism, visiting family and friends, or attending events

• Stay up to 6 months per visit

• Multiple entry options available

• Visit family and friends in Canada

• Tourism and sightseeing

• Attend events and conferences

About the Canadian Visitor Visa

A Canadian Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is an official document issued by the Canadian government that allows foreign nationals to enter Canada for temporary stays. It is typically valid for tourism, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings or conferences, or other short-term non-work activities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Canadian Visitor Visa in 2025, you must meet the following requirements:

• Valid travel document: You must have a valid passport that will not expire during your intended stay

• Good health: You may need to undergo a medical examination

• No criminal record: You must not have any criminal convictions

• Financial support: You must show you have enough money for your stay

• Strong ties to home country: You must convince an officer you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay

• Genuine temporary resident: You must satisfy an officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your stay

• Not a security risk: You must not pose a security risk to Canada

• Invite letter (if applicable): If visiting family or friends, a letter of invitation may strengthen your application

Required Documents

• Valid passport (must be valid for the duration of your stay)

• Completed application forms (IMM 5257 and IMM 5645)

• Two recent passport-sized photographs

• Proof of financial support (bank statements, pay stubs, employment letter)

• Travel itinerary or flight bookings

• Proof of ties to home country (property ownership, employment, family)

• Invitation letter from Canadian host (if visiting family/friends)

• Purpose of visit documentation

• Biometrics (fingerprints and photo)

• Medical examination results (if required)

• Visa application fee payment receipt

• Any additional documents specific to your situation

Processing Times (2025)

• Online applications: Typically 2-8 weeks depending on country of application

• Paper applications: May take longer, typically 8-12 weeks

• Extension applications: Apply at least 30 days before your current status expires

Application Fees (2025)

• Visitor visa (per person): CAD $100

• Biometrics fee (per person): CAD $85

• Biometrics fee (family of 2 or more): CAD $170

• Extension fee: CAD $100