Feeling overwhelmed by the complexity and difficulty of applying for a Canadian visa? Ease your mind now, as we are here to provide you with an essential overview and general guidelines for the application process. Find a comfortable spot to sit or lie down, and read through this article to gain a better understanding of the information you have been concerned about. 

SOME TYPES OF CANADIAN VISAS

Before delving into the detailed instructions on applying for a Canadian visa, it is crucial to have a clear comprehension of what types of visas are still available and have not been suspended in Canada. Let's not waste any more time and get started right away. 

At present, those attempting to visit Canada for tourism, pursuing education, attending business activities, and others on a short-term basis should apply for either a visitor visa or an eTA. These two types of visas are highly sought-after and have garnered the most applications from individuals applying for a Canadian visa.

Have you felt it was too short and want to look for another option? Consider applying for a super visa or a business immigration visa, both of which offer the possibility of staying for up to 5 years or possibly becoming a permanent resident.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS WHEN APPLYING FOR A CANADIAN VISA

Passing the entry requirements is a prerequisite for individuals who are considering applying for a Canadian visa to be aware of. Take your time to read through the full list below and do not skip any lines, as they are all crucial requirements that you cannot afford to miss.

• Completing all the immigration items on the Advanced Declaration form and submitting it via the online app at least 72 hours before entering Canada. Alternatively, if preferred, there is an extra option to complete the form when you arrive at the airport kiosk or eGate. 

• Completing the Declaration Card on board the aircraft or other means of transportation once landing at an airport without kiosks or eGates. 

• Fill out the correct form that corresponds to the type of visa that has been submitted. 

• Applying for a Canadian visa must align with the travel intention that falls under the admissible activities of the selection.

• Presenting the receipt of the paid application and additional service fees. 

• Showcasing the commitment to return to the motherland following a trip. 

• No previously committed acts of terrorism, offenses for human rights violations, or involvement in illegal activity. It is best to indicate a spotless criminal record.

• Having sufficient funds to pay for your personal or accompanying members' expenses while in Canada. 

• Having no infectious or dangerous illness in the body that could potentially harm and permeate the public. 

• Being in good physical condition and stable mental health. 

• Being able to present sufficient of all required documents to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) when arriving at Canadian airports or ports of entry (POE). 

• Being able to respond to inquiries posed by border officers at Canadian airports or ports of entry (POE).

• Being available to provide supplementary documents or additional information when being asked. 

• Ensure to provide truthful and accurate information as stated in the personal application form and other items. Any misleading or ungenuine statement might result in a visa refusal. 

Some specific entry requirements for applying for a Canadian visa

SOME OTHER REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLYING FOR A CANADIAN VISA

In addition to the entry requirements, there are some other standards you are required to clearly understand and comply with when applying for a Canadian visa. Generally, it might be mandatory in some cases to undergo immigration medical exams (IMEs) and provide biometrics as per the guidelines set by Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

To grasp a comprehensive understanding of these supplementary requirements, please read on and take note of some of the important information provided. 

Biometrics and immigration medical exams

The notion of biometrics and immigration medical exams (IMEs) is going to be explained in advance to comprehend why these terms are vital in applying for a Canadian visa. Slight down and look for further information given in the table to learn more details. 

Definition of biometrics 

Biometrics refers to the method of collecting human appearance and body measurements through a technological system. In Canada, the biometric process for applying for a Canadian visa will involve gathering electronic fingerprints and digital photos. 

The biometric is used to enhance immigration control by preventing individuals with criminal records, failed refugee claims, or previous deportations from obtaining a visa as an unauthentic individual. What is more, this method also reduces the burden of confirming identity, offering more options for application and making it less stressful for legitimate travelers.

Definition of immigration medical exams (IMEs) 

The immigration medical exams (IMEs) are an essential entry requirement carried out by designated panel physicians who are authorized by IRCC. These exams are a well-being assessment using laboratory tests, X-rays, or other diagnostic methods to evaluate various aspects of an applicant's health when applying for a Canadian visa.

The immigration medical exams (IMEs) are conducted to look for conditions that may require additional medical screening, treatment, or support services upon arrival in Canada. In addition to this, these exams enable panel physicians to detect the risk of tuberculosis or mental health disorders, ensuring that legitimate applicants receive timely and appropriate care.

Who will need to give the biometrics and take the immigration medical exams?

Although biometrics and IMEs are undoubtedly vital in applying for a Canadian visa, not every applicant will have to provide them. The decision on whether to submit these requirements solely depends on the individual's unique circumstances and personal profile.

Here is the list of individuals who will be required to go through either biometrics or IMEs. 

Required persons
Biometrics	- International workers aged 14 to 79 are applying for a work permit inside Canada, excluding those from the US. - International students aged 14 to 79 are applying for a study permit inside Canada, excluding those from the US. - Foreign nationals in cases of refugee or asylum situations. - Candidates applying for a visitor visa.  - Candidates are applying for a Canadian visa extension. - Individuals have been awarded permanent resident status. - Individuals arriving from a country or territory that requires a visitor visa.  - Holders of alien passports, irrespective of the issuing nation.
Immigration medical exams (IMEs)	- Professionals working in the field of health sciences.  - Individuals employed in a laboratory setting focused on clinical work. - Caregivers in nursing homes and facilities for the elderly.  - International students pursuing the subject of medicine at a Canadian institution.  - Medical electives and doctors on locum assignments.  - Educators in elementary or high schools, as well as instructors for young children at home.  - In-home caregivers who are responsible for taking care of children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.  - Personnel employed at a daycare center. - Individuals who have resided in one or more visa-exempt countries or territories for a continuous period of six months or more.  - Candidates applying for a super visa.

WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED WHEN APPLYING FOR A CANADIAN VISA?

Preparing a well-crafted package of the required documents is an integral duty for individuals to comply with if they are applying for a Canadian visa. Any failure to complete the submission of sufficient materials may become an inadmissible action and be grounds for visa rejection.

If you are determined and excited about visiting the country, invest your time in carefully examining the essentials listed below. This will enable you to ascertain what documentation to compile and be fully ready for the application. 

• Identity and civil status documents: For all visa programs, each applicant must attach photocopies of all identity and civil status documents with their Canada visa application. These may consist of a personal ID, birth license, or citizenship certificate.

• A copy of your passport: For all visa programs, each applicant must prepare a scan of the passport that will remain valid throughout your intended stay in Canada. It is best if its validity will not expire for six months before your date of return and has a minimum of two blank pages for stamping. 

• Passport-size photographs: For all visa programs, each applicant must provide at least 2 photographs of themselves showing their entire face without any coverage (unless it is worn for religious or medical purposes). Additionally, these photos should be 35mm x 45mm (1 3/8" x 1 3/4") in size and custom with a minimum resolution of 600 pixels by 600 pixels.

• Family information (IMM 5645): For all temporary residence visa programs, including study permits, work permits, and visitor visas, applicants who are 18 years and older are required to fill out and submit this form. 

• Use of a representative (IMM 5476): Only foreign individuals who wish to work in Canada under the International Mobility Program (IMP) are expected to submit this form. Besides, family members or third parties who act as representatives for the applicant are also required to submit it.

• Proof of financial means: Each applicant must demonstrate their financial capabilities when applying for a Canadian visa. These can be established through different avenues, such as a bank statement from the past six months, account balances, or tangible assets.

• Proof of relationship documents: Only applicants in the family class sponsorship or the super visa program will need to provide items that expose their relationship with a Canadian host. Acceptable shreds of evidence include children's custody documents, the Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union form (IMM5409), or any official document that identifies you as having a close relationship. 

• Marriage license or certificate: Only applicants applying for a Canadian visa as a spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner with a Canadian permanent resident or citizen will need to provide the marriage license. Along with this, it is recommended to submit any evidence of jointly owned property or a government-issued marriage registration.

• Language proficiency certificates: For some immigration programs, applicants are required to possess a language certificate in either English or French, with a minimum result of level 5. 

• A letter of authorization: Only minors who are under 18 years old will need to obtain a travel affidavit, also known as a letter of authorization, on behalf of their parents or legal guardian.

• A letter of invitation: For a business visitor visa or travel visa, applicants should receive a letter of invitation from a permanent resident in Canada or a Canadian citizen to secure visa approval.

• Educational and professional credentials: For study permits or certain immigration programs, applicants are required to provide educational degrees, transcripts, and professional certifications as part of the application process.

• Business plan: Only applicants applying for any of the business immigration visas will need to create a business plan outlining the nature of the operation. Furthermore, this plan should be broken down into each development phase and well-articulated.

SOME SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS MIGHT BE ASKED WHEN APPLYING FOR A CANADIAN VISA 

In the process of applying for a Canadian visa, there may be instances where officers request additional supporting materials besides the required ones if they feel it is necessary. Hence, please review and prepare the same package of documentation as outlined below to pass the assessment stage with ease.

• Travel history: It is optional for applicants applying for a Canadian visa to present their travel history. However, presenting a legible copy of past entries to Canada or any other country will build trust for assessment officers.

• Travel itinerary: There is no mandatory requirement that applicants applying for a Canadian visa need to provide a travel itinerary. Nevertheless, it is advisable to compile a document that outlines the schedule of the trips, encompassing flight bookings, hotel reservations, or event details, to facilitate officers tracking your plans. 

• Evidence of connections to your country of origin: It is optional for applicants applying for a Canadian visa to prove their ties with their homeland. Nonetheless, demonstrating ties such as company ownership, employment contracts, and tangible assets in the home country will ensure that applicants may intend to leave the country.

• Police certificate or clearance: The immigration law of Canada does not require applicants to submit a police certificate or clearance when applying for a Canadian visa. If possible, present this document to verify that you have a clean criminal record as stated to the immigration officers. 

Some additional documents may be asked when applying for a Canadian visa

CANADA VISA FEES

In addition to eligibility and requirements, inquiries about associated fees are one of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to applying for a Canadian visa. If you have that same curiosity, let us answer it for you.

According to the IRCC and other reliable immigration centers, each applicant is expected to pay the application fee that corresponds to their visa type, as well as any additional service fees they may have used. For further information, refer to the cost list in the following section and calculate your expenses accordingly.

Canada visa application fees

Given the extensive range of visas available in Canada, listing each one individually can be lengthy. Therefore, we will only mention a few prominent categories that witness a significant number of applications when applying for a Canadian visa. 

Types	Number of applicants	Fees (CAD)
Visitor visa application fee	Per person	$100
Super visa application fee	Per person	$100
Electronic travel authorization (eTA)	Per person	$7
Work permit application fee	Per person	$155
Study permit application fee	Per person	$150
Temporary resident permit application fee	Per person	$200
Business immigration visa application fee	Per person	$2,140

Additional service fees 

Out of a thousand extra fees, applying for a Canadian visa will typically ask for biometrics and IMEs. Please consult the following list to be clear.

Types	Number of applicants	Fees (CAD)
Biometrics	Per person	$85
Biometrics	Per family consisting of two or more people	$170
Biometrics	Per group of performing artists, including their staff	$250
IMEs for individuals aged 0-14	Per person	$140
IMEs for individuals aged 15-74	Per person	$170
IMEs for individuals aged 75 and over	Per person	$275

HOW TO APPLY CANADA VISA?

After preparing adequate documents as mentioned, let's get into applying for a Canadian visa.

Currently, applicants can conduct the application either through the online application or the paperwork application. According to your country of origin and the type of visa you are looking for, the application method will require a unique set of steps. 

Regardless of whatever your selection is, there are specific steps that almost every applicant is expected to follow in order to secure a Canadian visa successfully. Continue reading the subsequent sections that have been divided into two methods and determine which one suits your taste. 

Applying for a Canadian visa at an online application site

Applying for a Canadian visa via a government online site is considered the most dominant and effortless method at present. Allow us to assist you every step of the way to make your application a smooth sailing process.

• Step 1: Prepare before the application

Seek out and find out which types of visas are available at the time you intend to apply. Determine the suitable one that is tailored to meet your unique necessities.

• Step 2: Determine all requirements and eligibility

Take a careful look at all the information about the visa you are applying for, including its requirements and eligibility criteria, as different categories may have unique conditions.

• Step 3: Prepare the documentation 

Draft all compulsory documents that are specifically required within your case with sufficient and correct information provided without deception or misleading. 

• Step 4: Login or create an account

Visit the online portal of the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) and enter your user ID and password to sign in. If you are a newcomer, register an account with GCKey. Substitutely, you can utilize your online Canadian banking details with one of the provided Sign-In Partners to create an account.

• Step 5: Start your application

Head to the menu bar and select "Immigration and Citizenship". There, proceed to the section tagged “Find an IRCC application package or form". Then select the category that fits perfectly with your intention.

• Step 6: Fill out the application form

Download the application form for your visa application and answer all the required questions honestly. Ultimately, leave your signature and date at the bottom of the application.

• Step 7: Fill out the supporting form 

Review the privacy policy carefully and fill out the consent form. Besides that, in some instances, the IRCC may send you a notification requesting additional documents. If you are not able to furnish them, you will be required to fill out the waiver form and sign it.

• Step 8: Complete your application

Prepare the completed form together with your documents, such as scanned copies of your passport and other relevant personal materials, as mentioned earlier.

• Step 9: Complete the payment

Go to the "Pay your fees online" category within "My application" and enter your banking information. You can use any of the following debit or credit cards to finalize the fee payment: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, and UnionPay. Keep in mind that all payments must be made online, and any other cards will not be accepted. 

• Step 10: Submit your application 

Upload all necessary documents, forms, and proof of payment to your account. 

• Step 11: Book an appointment and take the IMEs (if required)

If your application falls within the required category, you will need to undergo immigration medical exams (IMEs). You can choose to take them before or after submitting your application. 

For the former, you'll need to locate a panel physician in your country and schedule an appointment directly with them. For the latter, the IRCC will provide you with a guideline that includes the appointment time and the type of medical exam you need to take.

• Step 12: Give your biometrics (if required) 

If you have not provided biometrics for the last 10 years and your application is within the required category as stated above, you’ll need to provide your biometrics. To practice, the IRCC will request payment for the biometrics and will send you a confirmation letter specifying the location where you need to provide them. 

Applying for a Canadian visa at an online application site 

Applying for a Canadian visa at a paperwork application site

The paperwork application is a special measure for disabled individuals, non-national residents, refugees, or stateless persons. Only if you find yourself in any of these circumstances is applying for a Canadian visa at an application site a viable option for you.

Explore detailed instructions by delving into the details below.

• Step 1: Find out information 

Seek out and find out which types of visas are available at the time you are applying for a Canadian visa. Determine the one that aligns most effectively with your demands. 

• Step 2: Determine all requirements and eligibility

Thoroughly examine all the details about the visa you are seeking, including its requirements and eligibility criteria, as distinct categories may entail specific conditions.

• Step 3: Prepare the documentation

Gather all essential documents that are specifically needed for your case, ensuring they contain accurate and complete information without any deception or mislead.

• Step 4: Start your application

Visit the online portal of the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) and select "Immigration and Citizenship" in the men. There, proceed to the section tagged “Find an IRCC application package or form" and choose the category that corresponds to your particular case. 

• Step 5: Fill out the application form

Download the application form for your visa application and answer all the required questions honestly. Subsequently, leave your signature and date at the bottom of the application.

• Step 6: Fill out the supporting form 

Review the privacy policy carefully and fill out the consent form. Besides that, in some instances, the IRCC may send you a notification requesting additional documents. If you are not able to furnish them, you will be required to fill out the waiver form and sign it.

• Step 7: Collect all the documents

Thoroughly double-check that all the packages of required documents for your application, including the consent form and waiver form (if applicable), have been well-written and attached.

Then, print all of these documents on premium, non-reflective white paper using a laser printer. Make certain that the 2D barcode is printed with two clear and high-quality copies.

• Step 8: Complete the payment

Visit the online portal of the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) again and go to the "Pay your fees online" category within "My application". From there, enter your bank account using any of the following debit or credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, and UnionPay. Keep in mind that all fees must be made online, and any other cards will not be accepted. 

• Step 9: Submit your application 

Bring all the printed documents and forms, together with the payment receipt, to the nearest Visa Application Center (VAC) in your residence area.

• Step 10: Book an appointment and take the IMEs (if required)

Should your application be in the required category, you will be requested to undergo immigration medical exams (IMEs). You can choose to take them before or after submitting your application. 

If you decide to complete the exams before submitting your application, you will need to find a panel physician in your country and directly schedule an appointment with them. On the other hand, if you choose the second option, the IRCC will inform you of the time for the appointment and the type of medical exam you need to take.

• Step 11: Give your biometrics (if required) 

If you have not provided biometrics for the last 10 years and your application falls within the required category as stated above, you must provide your biometrics. To complete, you will need to finalize the payment for the biometrics fee and wait for a confirmation letter from the IRCC specifying the location where you need to provide them.

Applying for a Canadian visa at a visa application centre

In general, applying for a Canadian visa can be quite a daunting process, filled with numerous criteria and tasks that need to be satisfied. This can create immense stress and anxiety for individuals who are new applicants to the Canada visa process.

However, if you carefully review the omni-provided information and meticulously take note of some key points in this article, the process of applying for a Canadian visa will no longer seem overwhelming. Should you be brimming with confidence, go ahead and apply to get your visa today. 

As of now, are there any lingering concerns on your mind? If so, promptly drop us an email at [email protected] and we will address your questions within a minute.