If you are a non-Canadian citizen who needs to visit Canada, you must apply for a temporary visitor visa. Depending on your circumstances, you should give biometrics (fingerprints and photographs) or provide documents that support your application.
Find more information on how to get a temporary visitor visa by checking the IRCC website. You can also speak with a Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor (RISIA) about the process.
Document Checklist
If you are planning to visit Canada briefly, knowing what documentation you need is essential to apply for a Canadian temporary visitor visa. This includes documents proving your identity, travel itinerary and financial resources. You can also download a document checklist to help you organize your information and ensure you have everything required for your application.
You need to ensure you have the correct visa type for your trip. This means you must know whether you require a visitor or transit visa.
Biometrics
Biometrics is a type of identification that uses a person’s unique physical characteristics to confirm their identity. They include fingerprints and photographs.
In Canada, applicants must provide biometrics for all visa and immigration applications. These biometrics help Canadian visa officers screen applicants for prior criminal convictions and immigration infractions that could make them less likely to enter Canada legally.
The Government of Canada says the requirement will make it easier to process visas and reduce entry delays for low-risk travelers. It also helps
Entry Requirements
Before you can apply for a visitor visa, you will need to meet several requirements. These include a valid passport or travel document, biometrics (fingerprints and a photo), and a good reason for your trip to Canada.
Your home country will determine the kind of visa you require. A visitor visa allows you to enter Canada for a limited period. You can also get a shorter-term transit visa for persons traveling through Canada to another country.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website has information on entry requirements from your country. You may also want to check with your local provincial or territorial authorities for guidance on visa requirements in your area.
You can also find instructions on paper at your visa office. You can also use the online application process. Once you have all the documents, you can upload them on ArriveCan.
Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be asked to provide your biometrics. These are fingerprints and a photograph of your face. They help us identify you and ensure your identity is not stolen or forged.
You must appear in person at a service point to give your biometrics.
If you are a visitor or transit visa applicant, you can also use the online application form and upload your documents. It is best to complete the application form in advance and upload all of your required documents to avoid delays or cancellations.
Giving your biometrics while you pay the processing fee is also a good idea. This will ensure that your application is processed quickly.
You can submit your visitor visa or transit visa application online, on paper, or in person at a Visa Application Center. You can also send it through the mail if you prefer. However, submitting your application via mail can take longer than applying online or in person.
Applying
When applying for a temporary visitor visa, it is essential to understand how your application will be processed. A consular officer evaluates your case individually and considers your professional, social and cultural qualifications and other factors.
Your application will also be reviewed to ensure that you meet Canada’s immigration regulations and any additional requirements you may need. The process can take a month or longer, so plan.
You must complete your application and submit it with all necessary supporting documentation. You may also need to provide ink-free, digital fingerprint scans if you are a citizen of a country that requires them. These fingerprints can be taken during your interview or at a later date.
If you are a student traveling to Canada for studies, you must apply for a study permit. This document allows you to live and study in Canada for a specific period.
However, before getting a study permit, you must first be approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This online resource can help you learn more about your choices.
Once you’ve applied, you will receive a letter from IRCC. This will provide details about where to go for your visa interview and any other information you need. It will also tell you if your application has been approved and what to expect during the interview.
In addition, IRCC will provide you with an email address and telephone number to contact with questions or concerns about your application.
After your application is approved, you must go to the embassy, where you will be interviewed. The interview allows the consular officer to evaluate your application in detail.
