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Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

You need to give your biometrics.

In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply.

Find out who needs to give biometrics and how the new application process works.

Biometrics and the application process

We refer to your fingerprints and photo as biometrics. We collect biometrics for most applications. Find out what happens from when you submit your application to when you get to Canada and where biometrics fits in the process.

1. Apply for your visitor visa, study permit or work permit

If you want to visit, study or work in Canada, make sure you’re eligible to apply. Use our application guides to help fill out your application properly, then submit your application.

Avoid processing delays by sending us a complete application .

2. Get your fingerprints and photo taken

If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you probably need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics).You only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years to make repeat trips to Canada easier.

• You must pay the  biometrics fee   when you submit your application.  Otherwise you may experience delays.
• Get this done  as soon as you get the letter  from us that tells you to give biometrics.
• You have  30 days  to do this from the date on the letter.

Find out who needs to give , how to give , and  where to give your biometrics .

COVID-19: Biometrics deadline

Some biometrics collection sites are closed. If the site closest to you is closed, we’ll extend your deadline to give your biometrics. Find out how COVID-19 is affecting biometrics .

3. We process your application

After we get your biometrics, we start processing your application. See how long it takes to process your application.

If we need more information from you, we’ll contact you.

4. We make a decision on your application

When we finish reviewing your application, we let you know if you’re approved to come to Canada. If you are, we issue your documents.

If your application is refused, we send you a letter that tells you why.

5. You travel to Canada (if you’re approved)

Make sure you travel with the documents we gave you. This includes travel documents like a visitor visa, study or work permits or an eTA (electronically linked to your passport).

Airline staff and border service officers at ports of entry will ask to see your travel documents. If you don’t have them, you may not be able to board your flight to Canada.

Make sure children under 18 travel with the right documents .

6. We check your identity when you arrive in Canada

When you arrive, we check your identity to make sure that you are the same person who was approved to travel to Canada. We may use your biometrics to do this.

If we can’t verify your identity, you may be detained by a border services officer. These officers help protect the health and safety of Canadians.

If the officer determines that you’re not admissible to Canada, you won’t be allowed to enter Canada. If you came by air, you’ll have to take a return flight to where you came from.

7. You’re allowed to enter Canada

If you pass the identity check and meet the entry requirements , the border services officer stamps your passport and lets you know how long you can stay in Canada. You’re normally allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months.

Children under 18 must meet the same entry requirements as adults. The border services officer may ask minor children to show other documents depending on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone.

Basic entry requirements

You must meet some basic requirements to enter Canada. You must:

• have a valid travel document, like a passport
• be in good health
• have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your home country
• convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
• The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.

Some people are not admissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. You can be inadmissible for several reasons, including being involved in:

• criminal activity
• human rights violations
• organized crime

You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons.

Find out more about inadmissibility .

Biometrics fee

• Individual  applicant: CAD $85
• Families applying at the same time : maximum total fee of CAD $170
• Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff  who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of $CAD 255

You can apply online or on paper (in specific situations) for:

• visitor visas (also known as temporary resident visas)
• super visas (for parents and grandparents)
• transit visas

Apply online

Before you apply, make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

You must have both of these to apply online:

• access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents to upload
• a valid credit card to pay with

How you apply depends on what you apply for. Select the document you want to apply for to get instructions:

Visitor visa : Option 1 of 3

Apply for a visitor visa

Super visa (for parents and grandparents) : Option 2 of 3

Apply for a super visa

Transit visa : Option 3 of 3

Apply for a transit visa

Apply on paper (in specific situations)

Before you apply , make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

Read the instruction guide to get all the details to apply on paper.

• Instruction Guide 5256

Once you have read the guide, you can prepare your application package. You must select the country or territory from which you will apply to get your local visa office instructions.

Permanent residents of Canada

We do not issue temporary resident visas (TRV) to permanent residents (PR). If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) instead. If you meet the requirements for a PRTD, you can return to Canada as a PR.

If you no longer want to be a PR, or if you know you do not meet the requirements to keep your PR status, you can voluntarily give up (renounce) your PR status to apply for a TRV.

Application for Temporary Resident Visa

You can’t fill out and save the application form using your Internet browser. To use the form, you need to:

• Use your computer (Mac or PC). The form won’t open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones, etc.)
• Install Adobe Reader 10 (or higher)
• Download the PDF file to your computer . Save the file in a place you can remember.
• Make sure you use Adobe Reader to open the form. Sometimes if you try to open the form directly, it will use your Internet browser to try to open it.

Note: If you are applying online , you don’t need to print and sign the form. Leave the signature section empty.

Get the form

• Application for Temporary Resident Visa [IMM 5257] (PDF, 556.66 KB) June 2019

Having issues with the form?

• I can’t open my visa application form in PDF format. What can I do?
• After clicking the “validate” button on my visa application form, nothing happens and I don’t see the barcodes. Why is this happening?

How-to video

Find out if you are eligible

Living in Canada tool

Related Post

Navigating the canada visitor visa processing time for 2024.

Canada continues to be a prime destination for tourists, business visitors, and individuals looking to reunite with family members. Understanding the Canada Visitor Visa, officially known as the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), application process is crucial for planning your trip. This process, overseen by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), involves understanding the specific requirements and accurately estimating the processing time to ensure a smooth travel experience. Whether you're visiting for tourism, business, or family reasons, being well-informed about the application process and adhering to IRCC guidelines is crucial. This introduction aims to guide prospective visitors through the essential steps and tips for successfully obtaining a Canada Visitor Visa in 2024.

What is the Canada Visitor Visa?

The Canada Visitor Visa, officially known as the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is a crucial document for individuals from non-visa-exempt countries looking to enter Canada temporarily for tourism, visit family, or business purposes It allows individuals from certain countries to visit Canada for a short period, typically up to six months. Governed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the application process for the TRV requires applicants to demonstrate their intent to return to their home country after their visit, along with proof of sufficient funds for their stay. Processing times for these visas can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as application volume and accuracy. Applicants should start their application process well in advance of their planned travel date, paying close attention to the completeness and correctness of their submission to avoid delays. The IRCC website is a valuable resource for up-to-date information on requirements and processing times, ensuring applicants can navigate the process as smoothly as possible.

Role of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is the federal department responsible for the application process for the Canada Visitor Visa. IRCC oversees the policies and procedures related to immigration, refugees, and citizenship in Canada. It ensures that the entry of international visitors aligns with the country's laws and security standards. As the governing body overseeing immigration and citizenship in Canada, IRCC establishes the criteria, processes applications, and ultimately decides on the issuance of visas. It ensures that applicants meet the requirements, such as proving their intent to return to their home country and having sufficient funds for their stay. IRCC's responsibilities also extend to updating the processing times, which are crucial for applicants planning their travels.   By providing detailed guidelines and resources, IRCC facilitates a smoother application process for individuals seeking to visit Canada. The organization's efforts in streamlining procedures and improving efficiency are vital for managing the volume of applications and enhancing the overall experience for prospective visitors. 

The Application Process

The application process for a Canada Visitor Visa involves several steps, starting with determining your eligibility. Applicants must prove that they have ties to their home country, sufficient funds for their stay, and a clear intention to leave Canada at the end of their visit. The process typically involves submitting an online or paper application, accompanied by necessary documents such as passports, photographs, and financial statements, depending on their preference or requirements based on their country of residence

Online vs. Paper Applications

Applicants can choose between online and paper applications. Online applications are generally faster and allows for easier submission of additional documents if required. However, some applicants may prefer or be required to submit a paper application based on their specific circumstances or country of residence. Regardless of the method chosen, it's essential to ensure that the application is complete and all necessary documents are included to avoid delays. The processing time for these applications can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as application volume, accuracy of the application, and any required security screenings. Applicants are advised to start the application process well in advance of their planned travel date and regularly check IRCC updates to stay informed about processing times and any changes in the application requirements. In 2024, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will continue to streamline its processes to reduce wait times. However, applicants should prepare for the process to take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

Factors Affecting Processing Time

The processing time for Canada Visitor Visa, or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), applications can vary greatly, influenced by several key factors. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) oversees the application process, and understanding the elements that affect timelines is crucial for applicants.

• Application Volume : High volumes of applications can extend processing times, especially during peak travel seasons, as it can lead to longer waits.
• Application Accuracy : Incomplete or inaccurate applications can lead to delays,  as they require additional review or the submission of supplementary documents. Ensuring that all information is correct and all required documents are included can help speed up the process.
• Security Screening:  Some applications may require additional security checks, and background verifications can extend the processing time, especially for applicants from countries requiring more in-depth scrutiny.
• Country of Residence : The country of residence of the applicant also plays a role, with some countries experiencing longer processing times due to various logistical and administrative factors. 
• Submission of Application : the choice between online and paper applications can influence the duration, with online submissions often processed more swiftly. Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure their applications are complete and accurate to mitigate potential delays in the processing time.

Tips for Navigating the Application Process

 Here are essential tips to help you through the journey, ensuring compliance with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines and potentially speeding up the processing time.

• Early Preparation : Begin your application process well ahead of your intended travel date. This early start accounts for any unforeseen delays and gives you ample time to gather necessary documents.
• Consult IRCC Resources : The IRCC website has a treasure of information. Regularly checking for updates ensures you have the latest on processing times and application requirements, helping you to prepare an accurate and complete application.
• Document Accuracy : Ensure all documents are accurate and fully completed. Mistakes or omissions can lead to delays or rejections. Pay special attention to financial proof, travel history, and invitation letters, if applicable.
• Understand Processing Times : Be aware that processing times vary and are influenced by various factors, including application volume and individual circumstances. Checking the estimated processing time on the IRCC website can help set realistic expectations.
• Utilize Available Help : If you encounter complexities, consider seeking advice from immigration professionals. They can offer valuable insights and assistance with your Canada Visitor Visa application process.
• Consider Peak Times : If possible, avoid applying during peak periods when processing times are likely to be longer.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information on the Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) application process, including forms and guides, visit the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. It is also advisable to consult with immigration professionals or legal advisors who specialize in Canadian immigration to assist with complex situations or questions.

The Canada Visitor Visa application process and its processing time can seem daunting at first. However, with thorough preparation and an understanding of the process outlined by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), applicants can navigate this journey more smoothly. By starting the application process early, staying informed about the latest IRCC updates, and ensuring the completeness and accuracy of your application, you can enhance your chances of a successful and timely visa approval for your visit to Canada in 2024.

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Steps to apply for a visitor visa

• 1. About the document
• 2. Steps to apply
• 3. Who can apply
• 4. Supporting documents
• 6. After you apply

Step 1: Get the documents that show you meet the criteria for a visitor visa

Check the list of documents based on your situation

Step 2: Apply online

1. create an account.

2. Upload your documents

3. Pay your fees

How to apply for a visitor visa

Step 3: Give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)

Normally, you need to give biometrics. If your local visa application centre is not open due to COVID-19, there are temporary measures in place for biometrics.

Find out what to do for your biometrics

How we process your application

We’ll check your application to make sure you have all the documents you need.

If it’s incomplete, we’ll return your application without processing it.

If we approve your application, we’ll ask you to send us your passport.

Send us your passport (if we approve your application)

To get your visa, follow the instructions we’ll send to you.

Prepare for your travel to and arrival in Canada

You may need to bring with you documents you submitted with your visa application, or present additional documents to the border services officer on arrival in Canada.

Check the list of documents you may need

Thank you for your help!

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

IRCC's Canadian Immigration Processing Times

Find out the processing time for your canadian immigration application. .

Whether you are looking to visit, study, work in or immigrate to Canada, Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada's (IRCC) processing times tool provides the latest information on how long it may take your application to be processed.

See the latest IRCC processing times

About Canadian Immigration Processing Times

The processing time begins the day Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) receives an application and ends the day a final decision is made.

Generally, the processing time for any given application depends on the following factors:

• the type of application submitted
• if the application is complete;
• how quickly IRCC expects to process applications already in the system;
• how easily applicants’ information can be verified;
• how long applicants take to respond to any requests or concerns; and
• other factors.

About CanadaVisa and Cohen Immigration Law

Cohen Immigration Law is a leading Canadian immigration law firm with over 45 years of experience. Cohen Immigration Law features over 60 immigration lawyers, paralegals, and professionals who are dedicated to helping you immigrate to Canada.

CanadaVisa.com was founded as the online presence of Cohen Immigration Law. Since its launch in 1994, CanadaVisa has grown into one of the globe's most trusted resources on Canadian immigration. If you want professional legal assistance, please feel free to contact us.

Contact the Cohen Immigration Law Firm for Assistance

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Canada's Express Entry Draw Results from March 13, 2024

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has now conducted a second Express Entry draw this week. Here are the results of that draw, which occurred on March 13, 2024.

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