Each year, over 35 millions of visitors enter to Canada for travelling, business, family visiting and learning purposes. Applicants from some nations are exempt from the visa requirements. For those whose citizen are not listed in the visa-exempt nations, a Canada tourist visa is required. In this article, general information regarding Canada tourist visa will be provided. 

What is a Canada Tourist Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)?

A Canada Visa tourist is also referred to as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Canada Tourist Visa. Applicants who wish to enter Canada must apply for a TRV.

You may apply for a Canada TRV for any of the following purposes:

• Visit/Tourism

• Study

• Work/Employment

• Temporary Resident

• Business

An example of Canada Visit Visa

How Long Can I Stay in Canada on a Tourist Visa?

Travelers holding a TRV can stay in Canada up to six months. However, the immigration border services officers will determine the length of stay at the Port of Entry. Travelers must leave Canada on or before the date stamped on their passport unless you apply for visa extension.

A Canada tourist visa is valid for around 6 months.

Temporary Resident Visa requirements

You must meet all the Canada visa tourist requirements listed below:

• Have a valid passport

• Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions

• Evidence of strong ties to the applicant's home country, such as family ties or proof of employment

• Have evidence showing that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit

• Have enough funds to cover for expenses while travelling in Canada

Required documents for Canada visitor visa

You must collect five primary required documents for a Canada visa tourist application. They can be different depending on your specific situation. However, you must have the following documents in general when applying for a Canada Temporary Resident Visa:

• Proof of your ties (as mentioned above)

• Proof of your funds for your visit and stay in Canada

• Passport

• A letter of invitation (if applicable)

• Proof of your leaving within the required dates

• Hotel booking confirmation, return flight tickets, details travel plan (strongly advised)

​In addition to those documents above, applicants also need to fill in the mandatory forms:

• Application for Temporary Resident Visa [IMM 5257] (PDF, 0.56 MB)
• Family Information (IMM 5707 or IMM 5645)
• Document Checklist [IMM 5484] (PDF, 1.12 MB)

Canada Tourist visa processing time

Canada Tourist Visa processing time varies depending on the countries the applicants are applying from. On average, the processing time is between 3 weeks to 16 weeks during peak seasons. It is highly recommended to apply as soon as possible to avoid visa delay. 

How to apply for a Canada Visa Visitor?

To apply for this Canada visa successfully, please follow the following three primary steps:

1. Check your eligibility to apply for a visa tourist application

2. Collect all the supporting Canada visa tourist documents

3. Apply online

Canada Tourist visa fees

Canada visa tourist fees are listed below:

• A visitor visa (including super visa) costs $CAD 100 per person for a single or multiple entry temporary resident visa

• A visitor visa costs a maximum fee of $CAD 500 per family of 5 or more people with the following conditions:

  • It is a single or multiple entry temporary resident visa

  • Family members apply at the same time and in the same place

  • Children in the family must qualify as dependants

• To extend your stay as a visitor, you need to pay a fee of $CAD 100 

• It is free to restore your status as a visitor

Frequently Asked Questions

Do US citizens need a visa to enter Canada?

US citizens, including US-Canadian citizens with valid US passports, can enter Canada without applying for an ETA or visa. US citizens particpate in NEXUS or FAST can use these membership cards as a replacement of their passport. 

Can I visit Canada with a US tourist visa?

 Travelers from visa-required countries who wish to enter Canada must obtain a visa even if you hold a valid US tourist visa.

How much is the bank balance required to get a Canada visitor visa?

The funds should be enough to cover your expenses in Canada. On average, a person needs about 100 CAD per day and 3000 CAD per month.

In conclusion, the provided information has helped you go into details of the Canada Visa tourist, from the definition, validity, and requirements to the fees and application process. Don’t hesitate to contact us at +1 315 715 8498 or [email protected] if you have further questions.