Table of Content
1Canada Tourist Visa for Indians2Types of Canada Tourist Visa3Difference Between Canada Tourist Visa and Visit Visa4How to Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa from India? Calculator5How to Apply Online for a Canada Tourist Visa from India?6Canada Tourist Visa Eligibility from India7Documents Required for Canada Tourist Visa from India8Canada Tourist Visa Fees from India9Processing Time of Canada Tourist Visa from India10How to Check Canada Tourist Visa Status?11Conclusion12Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ )
Canada Tourist Visa for Indians
Canada offers a lot of value in terms of tourism for Indians. Famous for its natural beauty, cultural heritage and vibrant multiculturalism, Canada is a great place to visit for both leisure and business. What’s more, the Canadian government has streamlined the process of acquiring a tourist visa, making it possible for millions of people from all over the world to visit the country every year.
Types of Canada Tourist Visa
Canada primarily offers two types of visitor visas for tourists:
- Single Entry Visa: This visa allows the holder to enter Canada only once. After the person leaves Canada, except when traveling to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, they will need a new visa to return to Canada.
- Multiple Entry Visa: This visa allows the holder to enter and exit Canada multiple times within the visa’s validity period, up to 10 years or one month before the passport expires, whichever is earlier.
Difference Between Canada Tourist Visa and Visit Visa
The terms “Tourist Visa” and “Visit Visa” are often used to mean the same thing when it comes to Canada. Both refer to the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) that allows a foreign national to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or other short-term purposes. The difference is in the intent and duration of stay:
- Tourist Visa: It is specifically for individuals traveling for leisure, sightseeing, and vacations.
- Visit Visa: This covers tourism as well as visiting family or friends, attending business meetings, or short-term studies (less than 6 months).
How to Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa from India?
Applying for a Canadian tourist visa from India is a simple and straightforward process, especially when done online. Simply follow the steps detailed below to secure your tourist visa.
How to Apply Online for a Canada Tourist Visa from India?
1. Create an Account: Register on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
2. Complete the Form: Fill out the visa application form (IMM 5257) and other relevant forms.
3. Submit Documents: Upload scanned copies of required documents (passport, photographs, proof of funds, travel itinerary, etc.).
4. Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee online.
5. Submit Application: Submit the completed application online
6. Biometrics: Schedule an appointment for biometric submission at a Visa Application Center (VAC).
Canada Tourist Visa Eligibility
It’s important to understand eligibility criteria when applying for a tourist visa from India. Otherwise, you may risk having your application rejected. To be eligible for a Canada Tourist Visa, Indian applicants must:
- Have a valid passport.
- Be in good health.
- Have no criminal record.
- Convince an immigration officer that they have ties (job, home, financial assets, or family) that will take them back to India.
- Convince an immigration officer that they will leave Canada at the end of their visit.
- Have enough money for their stay.
Documents Required for Canada Tourist Visa
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Completed visa application forms.
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, income tax returns).
- Travel itinerary and flight bookings.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel reservations, invitation letter from a host in Canada).
- Employment letter or proof of business ownership.
- Cover letter explaining the purpose of the visit.
Canada Tourist Visa Fees
As of the latest information, the visa fee for a Canada Tourist Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) is CAD 100 per person. The biometric fee is CAD 85 per person. Fees are subject to change, so it is recommended to check the latest fee structure on the official IRCC website before applying.
Processing Time of Canada Tourist Visa
The processing time for a Canada Tourist Visa from India varies depending on the volume of applications and other factors. On average, it takes about 2 to 4 weeks. However, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
How to Check Canada Tourist Visa Status?
Applicants can check the status of their visa application online through the IRCC website by logging into their account. Alternatively, they can use the “Check application status” tool available on the IRCC website, where they need to provide their application number and other relevant details.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Canada Tourist Visa from India involves a clear understanding of the process, eligibility criteria, and required documentation. Whether applying online or offline, it is crucial to provide accurate and complete information to avoid delays or rejections. With proper preparation and timely submission, Indian travelers can successfully obtain a visa to explore the beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities of Canada.
How can I get a tourist visa from India to Canada?
To apply for a Canada tourist visa (also known as a Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) from India, you need to follow these steps:
- Determine your eligibility
- Prepare your application
- Apply online
- Pay the visa fee
- Submit your application
- Provide biometric information
- Wait for processing
- Receive your visa
How much does a Canada tourist visa cost?
How much bank balance is needed for a Canada tourist visa?
There is no specific amount of bank balance that is explicitly stated, but you need to show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay in Canada. This typically includes:
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, accommodation, and return travel.
- Bank statements for the last four to six months.
- A letter from your employer or payslips if you are employed.
- Any additional financial documents (such as tax returns, fixed deposits, etc.)
How long is a Canada tourist visa valid?
What documents do I need to submit for a Canada tourist visa?
The documents required for a Canada tourist visa include:
- Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Canada.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos as per specifications.
- Visa application form: Completed and signed.
- Proof of financial support: Bank statements, employment letter, etc.
- Travel itinerary: Including flight bookings and accommodation reservations.
- Purpose of travel: Detailed itinerary of your travel plans in Canada.
- Supporting documents: Cover letter explaining the purpose of visit and ties to your home country.
- Proof of return: Documents showing your intention to return to India (e.g., employment letter, family ties, property ownership).
- Biometrics: If required.