Canada Tourist Visa: Eligibility Criteria and Required Documents

Are you planning to travel to Canada – on a family vacation, a business meeting, or to explore the country’s culture? A visitor visa is all you need.

A visitor visa is also known as a Canada tourist visa or temporary visa that allows you to stay in a country for a limited period. It is a legal document assigned by the government to foreign nationals to follow all the rules and regulations of the country.

The purpose of a visitor visa is to set an intention that the visitor is traveling to the country to visit relatives, medical purposes, tourism, or attending business meetings without plans of permanently staying or working.

Some countries have a visa waiver agreement that allows an individual to travel in a country without a visa. However, if you’re visiting Canada as an Indian passport holder, you will need a visa, which has validity that may last for a few weeks to months depending on the purpose of the visit. Let’s dive in and learn about the eligibility criteria and required documents in detail.

Minimum Requirements for a Canada Visitor Visa

To obtain a Canada visitor visa, you must meet the eligibility criteria and requirements set by the Canadian government.

• Have a passport
• Be in good health
• You shouldn’t have criminal records
• Have good financial conditions to support your living in Canada
• Show proof of purpose of visiting Canada
• Show your travel itinerary – to and from air tickets

Eligibility Criteria for Visitor Visa

Visiting a foreign country can be confusing if you’re going through the process for the first time since there are so many rules and regulations to follow. Each country has different requirements and eligibility criteria for visitor visas. We will discuss the eligibility criteria for visiting Canada and obtaining a visitor visa by following all rules and regulations.

Canada is a beautiful country with scenic views and landscapes and one of the most popular among Indians. Eligibility for obtaining a visitor visa is determined by meeting specific criteria. If you possess the following conditions, you may be eligible to apply for a visitor visa:

• Valid passport
• Purpose of visit
• Intention to return
• No criminal records
• Financial stability
• Good health
• Proof of ties to home country
• Adherence to immigration laws

Documents Required for Getting a Canadian Visitor Visa

When applying for a Canadian Visitor Visa, clearly understand all documents you must submit. The provided documents will support the eligibility and increase the chances of obtaining a visitor visa without any issues.

However, ensure that the documents submitted are in a proper format, well organized, valid, and accurate. Sometimes, additional documents may also be required depending on individual circumstances. Here’s a list of the documents needed to get a Canadian visitor visa:

• Valid Passport
• Completed Application Form
• Include Photographs
• Purpose of Visit Documents
• Proof of Funds
• Letter of Visit
• Health and Clearance Certificates

Valid Passport

Having a passport is essential when traveling to a foreign country. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the end date of your travel.

Completed Application Form

Fill out the application form correctly. Take time and fill in all the required details to avoid rejection or delays. Incomplete application forms or misguided information will not be accepted and may lead to rejection.

Include Photographs

Submit or attach a clear-colored photograph of yourself. Read all the guidelines before getting the photograph clicked, as it should match the description or dimensions shared in the government document. The photograph must be taken recently against a plain white background and clear with visible facial features.

Purpose of Visit Documents

Submit a complete travel itinerary from entry to exit date from the country, hotel reservations, or any invitation letter from a Canadian host that describes your purpose of visit to the country.

Proof of Funds

Show that you have enough funds to cover your expenses, including travel, food, living, transportation, and accommodation. You can show proof like a bank statement, sponsorship letter, or any financial statement that can display your capability to bear all the expenses.

Letter of Visit

Mention the purpose of the visit, whether you’re just traveling, visiting family, attending meetings, seeking medical attention, or participating in cultural events. You need to define the purpose of the visit clearly.

Health and Clearance Certificates

Some countries require health certificates to ensure an individual is healthy and poses no danger to the population. They should also provide a police clearance certificate to show their clean criminal record.

ALSO READ: Canada Visa Types

How to Apply for a Visitor Visa?

Here’s how you can apply for a visitor visa.

Online Process

• Official government website
• Electronic visa application system
• Visa centers
• Online travel agencies

You can apply for a visitor visa online by following the below process:

Step 1: Check your eligibility before filling out the application form. Ensure you meet all the requirements. Gather all the documents in advance.

Step 2: Visit the official website and fill out the application form.

Step 3: Upload all the requested documents and identity proof like an aadhaar or pan card.

Step 4: Pay the visa processing fee through a cheque or bank draft.

Step 5: Submit the application form.

Step 6: After submitting the application form, you will receive information regarding biometric submission, where you will have to book a slot for a biometrics appointment to submit your fingerprints and photographs.

Step 7: Once a complete application is submitted, you will have to wait for a decision as your application will go through a background and eligibility check. After evaluating the provided information and reviewing your application, the immigration authorities will make a decision.

Offline Process

• Embassy
• Offline visa application centers
• Postal mail

You can apply for a visitor visa offline by following the below process:

Step 1: Visit the authorized visa application center or embassy to collect an application form.

Step 2: Fill out the application form correctly.

Step 3: Collect all the documents and arrange them properly.

Step 4: Take photocopies of all the documents before submitting them.

Step 5: Organize the documents in order as specified by the embassy.

Step 6: Pay the fee and apply.

Step 7: You will be called for an interview after a few weeks or months. Attend the interview on the given date.

Step 8: After the interview and a review of the application, a decision will be made and informed.

How to Track the Application Status of a Visitor’s Visa?

To track the application status of a visitor visa, follow the below steps:

1. Visit the official website of the Canadian immigration or visa department.
2. Find the option that says ‘track visa application.
3. Enter the application number or passport number.
4. Click on submit or track.
5. The status of the application will be displayed.

Before applying for a visa, knowing all the eligibility criterias and document requirements is essential, as it helps avoid delays and errors. Knowing everything beforehand will save time and money. Canada immigration consultants and embassies can help to become more aware and confident while applying for the visa. The first step toward creating happy memories and enjoying the time in Canada is obtaining a visitor visa.

ALSO READ: Canada Visa Processing Time – How To Apply For A Canadian Visa?