I want to share one good news with you all. Finally, my tourist visa for Canada got approved and I am back from Vacations. And in this article, I want to share my experience with you about how I got my Canadian Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). I will be sharing the complete process and what documents I submitted with the application. I submitted my application for the Canada tourist visa at the VFS New Delhi office and the experience was good.
If you are a first time visitor to Canada as a tourist, student, or for business, you may have a problem in filling your application form, collecting all the documents, and many other things. I too had many questions in my mind before filling the application for a Canadian tourist visa and do not want to hire any tourist or visa consultant but the internet helped me a lot in clearing my doubts. There are many good forums and websites which have valuable information for free.
I applied under “Visiting family or friends” category as I have to visit my brother who has a PR status in Canada and he gave me the invitation letter. An invitation letter is very important if someone is calling you to Canada.
So, if you have made your mind to visit Canada as a tourist then, first of all, determine your eligibility to visit Canada.You can visit CIC website for it.
If you found eligible to visit Canada as per the above eligibility test, you can apply for the visa.
You can apply for a Canadian tourist visa in 2 ways. First via online application and the second through an offline form by visiting embassy or VFS office in your area. VFS is the best option if you are applying offline and I haven’t found anyone going to the Canadian embassy themselves for a visa.
I applied for visitor visa through offline method via VFS Global as I don’t have enough time and online process generally takes a long time [that is what I have heard]. An offline process takes around 10 business days or 2 weeks. You can get full information about Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV) for Canada at CIC website.
Note: Current processing time from India is 44 days.
Don’t forget to include Niagara Falls in your day to day plan, as it is one of the most famous tourist places in Canada, and without seeing it your trip is incomplete. Check the below video and you would know yourself.
My Documents List for Canadian Tourist Visa
I included many documents along with the application form to make sure I am in a good position to get Canada visitor visa. Below are the documents which I included for your reference. You can include other documents too which are suitable and can make your application stronger.
1. Document Checklist [IMM 5558]
2. Application for Temporary Resident Visa [IMM 5257]
3. Family Information [IMM 5645]
4. A Bonafide letter from my company stating that they don’t have any problem and my leaves are approved. The letter should be on official letterhead and signed by your HR. Include an original letter not duplicate.
5. Income tax returns for the past 3 years, though 2 years ITR are sufficient as per the CIC website.
6. Bank statements for the past 6 months showing I have enough money for my stay in Canada and I have money to return back.
7. Letter of invitation from the person inviting you (from my brother) indicating the purpose and duration of the visit.
8. Family details of the person inviting you. Also include their passport number and citizenship.
9. My brother and his family PR card photocopy.
10. My brother’s job offer letter, Notice of Assessments (NOA) and pay slips.
11. I also included my marriage and my child’s birth certificate. This is for showing my strong relationship with my home country.
12. Detailed itinerary and purpose of visit.
13. Round trip air tickets.
14. Proof of previous travel. I included the photostat of my Japan visa and landing stamp.
15. My stocks (shares) statement.
16. Medical insurance for the period of my stay with $100,000 coverage. This I booked with an Indian insurance company as it is cheaper depending upon the number of days you stay in Canada.
17. Last but not the least, do write a cover letter supporting your application and submit it.
Check Different Letter Formats for Canada Tourist Visa (TRV)
I applied in June 2015 and since then, I can see there is a new form or instruction booklet added in the document list for Canadian tourist visa called Visa office instructions – Visit [IMM 5881], which has mainly documented checklist for Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). I am very glad to see that CIC has made a very good list of documents and removed all the confusion which the applicant can have. Do download it.
Note: I would like to thank my brother for helping me collecting the required documents and clearing my doubts wherever needed.
Tips for Canada Temporary Resident Visa – TRV
Below are few tips which I would like to share with you if you are thinking to apply for Canadian tourist visa.
1. Make a list of documents that you need for applying.
2. Collect all the information needed to fill in your application.
3. Fill out the required application forms as applicable to you.
4. Always give correct information on your application forms.
5. If possible, book your flight tickets in advance and include them with the application. It really makes a very big difference and make your application stronger.
6. Medical insurance is also good if you are going to Canada.
7. Do get your application checked by someone else [Very important]. I made one mistake in my main application and will share what I did to correct it in the next post.
8. Make visa officer believe that you are going to return back and have sufficient funds for stay by giving correct information. Don’t FAKE anything else you may be banned for a visa.
9. Do include your cover letter with the application stating why you want to go to Canada and in that letter show your strong relationship with the home country.
After submitting all the documents I got multiple entry Canada visitor visas till the validity of my passport which is 5 years.
Fees of Canada Temporary Resident Visa or Tourist visa
Current fees of Canadian temporary resident visa (TRV) is $100 (CAD). This fee is same for single entry and multiple entry visa. By default you will get multiple-entry Canadian visitor visa.
There is no option to select whether you are applying for a single entry or multiple entry visa now. Earlier the fees of a single entry and multiple entries were different and you also get the option to choose for what type of visa you are applying.
Hope you get some valuable information from my experience and would submit your tourist visa application with more confidence. If you have any doubts about filling your Canadian tourist visa application do let me know through comments or email and I will try to help in the best possible way but remember, I am not a tourist visa expert. Good Luck!!
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lukas
Hi Pawan,
Can I use bank certificate instead of bank statement?
Pawan Bahuguna
Yes, I think both are pretty same.
kaushik
I want to accompany my wife who is presenting a scientific paper in Montreal. My wife is getting an invitational letter from the conference organizer. How am I supposed to get an invitational letter?
Pawan Bahuguna
You can’t get invitation. Ask for invitation from your relative if they are in Canada. Or you can apply without invitation and can write a letter explaining why you want to go.
Simran
Hi ,
I need assistance on visa file. My brother is living in canada on study permit. My parents has visited last year to him in canada and there visa has expired now. My brother has complete studies and his convocation is on june we we are planning to visit him. Me and my parents are going to apply for visa. I have only 1 lakh in my account 50k FD and 70k credit card limit. My parents have almost 5-6 lakh bank balance.I am employed since 5.5 yrs and recently join another co. Last month so in that case please advise me are my funds sufficient and which employment docs should I attach.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi,
Your funds are not sufficient as you also have to buy flight ticket. If you book tickets today for June it will cost around 2.4 Lakh for 3 Adults. Also add your expenses, hotel, food, etc.
I will suggest you to make a full plan of your expenses and show it will filing visa application that you can manage all the expenses and you and your family really want to see your brothers convocation.
Note: I am not consultant and not any visa expert.
Simran
Thank u so much Pawan.
I have to add something we will live at my aunt (bhua) place she is also living in canada and she carries citizenship. But we Are only showing that we are going to meet my brother.
And we will Attach his rent agreement where we will stay with him. Also, I have joined my current company last month i am not sure they will grant me too many leaves so what i can show instead of leave approval.
Pawan Bahuguna
Then ask your Bua to give you invitation letter and mention she will take care of your expenses there. If they are not giving leave, how are you going?
Iffy
Hi Pawan,
Hope you are doing grate. If I have $2500 in my bank and have $1300 credit card limit, and I hold a return ticket other than this, would it works for 14 days trip?
Thanks in advance..
Pawan Bahuguna
Hello,
Depends where you stay and eat. Better try to check hotel rates from here and then apply. You will have convenience visa officer you have sufficient amount of money.
Iffy
Hi.. Sorry to mention I have invitation letter from my friend there. So now its sufficent amount for 14 days? As you mentioned $1000 for 1 week is OK?
Thanks.
Pawan Bahuguna
Ask your friend to write on invitation letter that he will take care of your expenses, then I think you should be good. Do not forget to show strong ties with home country and any property if you have.
Iffy
I am married and employed here. I dont have property on my own name, if I show my parents property will it be fine? Thanks
Pawan Bahuguna
Parent’s property don’t count. But you may add it. Both of you are going or you are going alone?
If your wife is not going, then it can be one more strong tie to your homeland. Just show you have a job and you love it and will be back and has sufficient funds to sustain in Canada.
Iffy
I’m going alone, one more thing is I dont have Travel history, would it create a problem? What should I do to remove this? Thanks
Pawan Bahuguna
If you don’t have travel history, don’t worry. Just concentrate on making your application strong.
Iffy
Should I mention in Cover letter that why I did not travel before? Like some personal family issue etc.
Pawan Bahuguna
If you want, you can write, but don’t give excuses like family issues.
Sam
Hi pawan,
I run a retail shop which is under one of my brother name ( worth 80k $) and the other brother run his own shop (worth 120,000$) and our home which is under parents name worth 15k $ but we dont live in our house.. We rent a house and a flat ( 750$ per month for both). I have around 22k $ in my saving bank and my other family members has something $ in their saving account… Should i summit their bank balance too? Do you think its enough to prove as a strong tie to my country or what do you suggest pawan? I have no travel history
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Sam,
Family bank balance is not required to strong ties in home country. Just show how many family members and relatives you have in home country.
Sahil
TFS is far away from my city. Should I go with my wife to TFS or should I go by alone .
May I chose online. Bec it’s first time to getting visa like that.
We are planning to go canada together. Wht document we need prepare both of us. I only filled my wife application that I did.
Some one said that if you will not get visa if you apply single. .That is true sir.
Could you suggest us which document is suitable for both of us.which should be prepare. I bit confused about both the document
Plzz explain In details step by step sir .
Pawan Bahuguna
You mean VFS right? All the document which are needed are list above. Please check them and let me know if you need any specific details.
This is not true that you cannot get visa without your wife. I got mine without my wife. You can submit your marriage certificate to prove you are married. All the steps are mentioned above.
Sahil
Hello sir,
I am going to visit Canada with my wife. But I don’t have invitation letter. My father is financially supporting me for my trip. What are the documents needed to get visa approval.
2 offline application including documents I have send to canada embassy.
I don’t understand clearly the offline method after complete the form what I have to do I don’t understand could plz help.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Sahil,
Please refer the documents which I have listed and also letter from your father stating he is sponsoring the trip and that you will return back. Offline process is straight forward. Just fill up your application, collect all the required documents and go to VFS Canada office in your city.
share
Dont try to apply through VFS. Better directly through cic.gc.ca
Pawan Bahuguna
If you are applying directly through website, do let us know how much time it took for complete process.
Thanks in advance.
Shakkeer Mk
From which country you are applying?
UBFx
Hello Pawan,
Your blog information is amazing i need advice can i apply visa with family? i own business in dubai and my family also have residence and i am director in my own country in one of friend company and own a property too 150k usd official worth and ive visited USA, UK , Schengen countries, malaysia, singapore, southafrica etc with family so is it ok if i apply again with my family and i can apply from uae or from home country both right as i have employment status both places please advice what is wise for me .
Pawan Bahuguna
You can apply with our family and from anywhere. They will ask what is your current status on country you are residing.
UBFx
Thanks for your reply. I need advice like my sister move canada and she got her PR, so it is mandatory for me to take invitation or i can apply without it due to travelling history and records? like i can only mention i will visit them and their details and relation etc? or do i need to provide proper info
Thanks
Pawan Bahuguna
It is easy to persuade on the basis of Family ground. If your sister is there, do ask for Invitation letter. I think it will increase your chances for an approved Canadian Visa.
UBFx
Can you please guide me my consultant who almost helped me in all visas is saying i am not eligible now until i submit 3 years tax return along with my visa application only i have bank balance and travel history and business in dubai nothing in home country solid so he is saying submit wealth tax of 3 years and then apply either you aren’t eligible is it true? i have to fulfill both requirements i e dubai business docs and my home country docs or wealth tax returns?
He is saying I only have travelling history and funds and nothing else however I got visas from anywhere till now with family no matter applied from dubai or home country please guide. Plus i will just mention my sister is living there not asking for invitation as i will stay in hotel and everything will be pre booked like before for example biz class tkts hotels in downtown and daily activities of 2 weeks and i always back from any country on given time never spend 1 day extra even.
Pawan Bahuguna
I think if you are showing tax filling for Dubai, it should be fine. The main thing they look for is your documents are genuine and you are going to return back.
UBFx
Dubai has no tax and i am not aplying from dubai applying fro home country so do i must need to submit tax returns? for showing strong ties to back home previous visas and travelling isnt enough to proove that i am not interested to stay anywhere more then 2 3 weeks max or i need to submit tax returns at any coast and with personal worth of approx 230k with tax returns are fine even i don’t ask my sister for invitation so is that profile and travelling is enough as i visited i told you like more then 15 countries with family…and want to apply with family for holidays.
Pawan Bahuguna
If there is no tax system, then you can mention that in your letter. They will understand. Don’t worry just apply with the available documents and give correct information.
sahre
As per my knowledge, apply directly through cic.gc.ca
thats better.
hagie
I have just applied for a visitor visa and ask me to bring the ticket can I take the ticket to their. an when I get the visa there is a need of documents I should have to have before flying to Canada
Pawan Bahuguna
Didn’t got your question.
Shakkeer Mk
Hi
Sir
Any one have any idea about airline tkt,
It is need dummy tkt or confirmed tkt?
Pls reply any one have idea
Pawan Bahuguna
What is dummy ticket?
share
dummy means
a ticket with itinary,but that ticket not issued
AARTI YADAV
Air ticket is not compulsory.. plz dont waste money on dummy or original ticket booking
share
thank you
Pooja
Hi Pawan,
I work in an organization and want to apply for Tourist visa to visit my cousin, he is sending invitation. Is marital status going to create an issue regarding the clause that you will not leave Canada post your stay. Also, can i include my father’s bank statement along with mine.
Pawan Bahuguna
It can create trouble, you will have to show strong ties with home country. Yes you can include your father’s bank statement and also ask your father to write a letter which states he is helping you with money and you are going to return India.
Iffy
Hi Pawan,
Hope you are doing grate. You mentioned above “7. Do get your application checked by someone else [Very important]. I made one mistake in my main application and will share what I did to correct it in the next post.” Please tell which mistake u did? Thanks
Pawan Bahuguna
Good catch Iffy. In one question where I have to mention YES, I mentioned NO.
Ali
Hi Pawan,
Thank for your wonderful advice… Would you please tell us how you corrected your mistake.. I have applied a Temp Visa for my parents and unfortunately I made a mistake too and I don’t know how to fix it.
really appreciate your time
Pawan Bahuguna
You can FAX the Canadian embassy with your application number and also go to VFS office and tell them your situation. Write a apology letter stating your mistake and correction. Be quick.
Pooja
Hi Pawan,
Thanks for your help.
Can I show my service agreement with my company to work for two years with them as a proof of return, will it help. Also, Do i need to mention the dates of traveling on my employment letter or not.
Pawan Bahuguna
Yes, you can show it and also write about it in letter. Employment letter should contain your joining date, designation, etc. Traveling date you can show in leave approval request if you have.
Rodolfo
Dear Sir Pawan,
A pleasant good day to you. Hope all are well with you. I send this message just to ask a favor from you if you mind if you could help or assist me for a draft letter regarding working visa to convince the immigration officer that i will return back to home country. Actually Im here in UAE working as Hotel Front Desk Receptionist. I have already LMIA, Contract.
Pawan Bahuguna
I don’t have any experience in work visa letter. When you already have LMIA, I don’t think there is any problem, you can show your employer reference letter;
Rodolfo
Dear Sir Pawan,
Thank you for your replay, basically my immigration consultant in Canada had been already submitted my visa application but unfortunately later on the immigration officer refused for the approval of my working visa due to some factors.
1. travel history
2. immigration status in the country of residence
3. employment prospect in the country of residence
4. current employment status
5. personal assets and financial status
I just wondering why sir Pawan they need all these things since I have already LMIA and contract as well. Now, if you don’t mind Sir could you kindly please send me a of draft letter to convince the immigration officer that after my 180 days contract I will be back here in UAE. Thanking you in advance…more power..
Pawan Bahuguna
We don’t have such article ready, but you can check below link and modify the letters as per your need.
http://www.pawanbahuguna.com/letter-formats-canada-tourist-visa-trv/
Pooja
Hi,
My Visa got rejected.
They have mentioned reasons which are common to all.
You think I should reapply now or after some time ?
Please suggest
Pawan Bahuguna
That’s awful, what reasons they gave?
Share
As per my knowledge, the visa officer no need any reason to reject the visit visa for who is unmarried, for this rejection they are saying a lot of unwanted reasons.
Pooja
Hi Pawan,
Reasons include:-
Info in the travel and identify documents, reason for travel,persons contact in Canada,person ties to her home country,ability to pay for trip, whether person is likely to respect conditions of her admission to Canada, person would leave at the end of her stay.
I have submiited my employment letter,salary slips, letter from my father, his ITR and savings(LIC), property papers. My income is not taxable yet.
Also invitation letter from my cousin with this employment letter, paystubs, NOA,ITR. We did not included his asset in Canada.
I did the submission through a travel agent. Please suggest should i Reapply and on what grounds which are strong enough to consider.
Looking forward for your valuable feedback.
Pawan Bahuguna
I think the main problem with your application would be of money. Show them enough money. It’s sometimes hard for bachelors to persuade visa officers.
How much bank balance did you show and did you booked your flight tickets in advance? Also did your cousin gave the letter, that he will support you?
Also, do let me know what agent is saying now. What is his recommendation?
B.K
Hi,
My wife (43yrs) and my son (12yrs) are given tourist visa for 13 months for multiple entries I am not able to understand the policies about time of visa. Please tell.
Pawan Bahuguna
What is the expire date to their passports? Generally multiple entry visa is given till the expiry date of passport.
Aarti Yadav
Hi can u plz tell me when u put ur visa file Nd when it got approved… Bcz my visa isn’t approved yet 18 days complete.. so worried for the same..
share
HELLO Pawan,
Last month I applied for canada tourist visa through VFS DOHAQATAR,
I am in doha qatar working as a senior accountant.
In the rejection letter they asking:immigration status in country of residence. For this what kind of proof I can submit?
And there is another question ie, length of proposed stay in canada? can u help me to answer this.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hello,
Yes, so whats your current residence status in country you are living?
Proposed stay is period for which you are going to Canada.
Larry
Hello Reema,
Happy to know that your visa got approved, can you please share type of documents you have submitted, as this will help others.
Have you submitted a return ticket and invitation letter?
Reema
Hi Larry,
I have not submitted actual tickets, i mentioned projected flight detail and flight number of to and fro flights in purpose of visit letter.
Sarita
Hi Pawan,
Thanks for sharing good information always.
I want to know few things from you regarding canada tourist visa. I am currently in India and my fiance is in canada. I want to go to canada on tourist visa. So need your suggestion how we should initiate this process. My fiance should start the process from canada or I should start from here. What would the best process and what all things documents, money we need in both the cases. I am working here in India in IT field.
I am really looking forward for your answer so that i would be able to start the process soon.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Sarita,
Initiate tourist visa in India. Ask your fiance to give invitation letter. For money and all documents, please check my post above I have given everything which I know.
KSB
Hello dear,
I submitted my visit visa application from Saudi Arabia and received an immediate response (within two days), from VFS through an email as well as SMS too indicating that “your processed passport has been dispatched” since it is too early response, what does indicate acceptance/rejection.
I shall be able to collect my passport on Sunday afternoon, as Friday/Saturday are off,, kindly reply..
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi KSB,
It looks to early as for Saudi Arabia processing time for Canadian tourist visa is 10 days. Cannot comment on visa approval or disapproval. Hope for best. May be they don’t have enough application and they processed it quickly.
share1212
Hello,
Any body having canada tourist visa, PURPOSE OF VISIT SAMPLE LETTER. Please help me.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi,
Please check article on different documents format for Canada visa.
share
Hello sir,
I applied for canada tourist visa, but it is rejected.
The reasons are:
1. travel history
2. immigration status in country of residence
3. length of proposed stay in canada
4. employment prospects in country of residence
5. family ties in canada and in country of residence
6. you have failed to demonstrate that you are established to a degree that compels your return at the end of the proposed visit.
7. you have not satisfied me that you would leave canada at the end of your stay as a temporary resident,
Sir these are the reasons. Sir can you help me to fill this questions for re application of my Canada visit.
Thank you
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi,
Looks like they have rejected your visa on every ground. Could you please tell me what documents you submitted, what was the period of stay you mentioned, funds available in your bank account and are you a student or working professional?
share
submitted documents:
1.bank statement for 3 months(its my salary account)
2.retun air ticket
3.hotel booking
3.march 27 to april 01-2017
4.i am a senior accountant in doha qatar
in the account only mention 1000 qar($367)
but they dont have any issue about the fund.
Pawan Bahuguna
Thanks for sharing details, but I think issue could be due to funds and did you showed any property in home country?
share
thank you very much sir
AARTI YADAV
Dear Sir,
I’m planning to put my file in next week for tourist visa for Canada. I’m ready with all the documents bt i haven’t book flight ticket so is it valid or not?? means flight ticket is compulsory or not?? plz help me in this
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Aarti,
Tickets are not compulsory but they make your application strong.
AARTI YADAV
Okk sir,
My husband went in Dec’16 on student permit and i’m planning to meet him on tourist visa as our first wedding anniversary is coming on 1st of May. So i’m planning to spent some time with him. Currently i’m working with one organisation. They gave me one month leave approval.
Do you think in this case there are any chances to get approval. As i’m not attaching flight ticket also.Plz help me.
Pawan Bahuguna
Approval depends upon how you have presented your application including what documents you have given.
AARTI YADAV
Dear Sir,
I’ve attached Invitation letter, My employer proof, leave letter, My husband’s University approval letter his study permit, his Utility bill, Agreement, IMM5257E, IMM5645E..
Pawan Bahuguna
Ok and what about funds?
Ranjan Kumar
Dear.Pawan,
I had submitted Canada visa application for tourist visa . I had applied through an agency . They had not provided cover letter .
They just submitted a normal hotel booking , copies of visas in my passports , Employer letter , bank statement .
They had not even submitted flight booking and itinerary .
I’m planning to re-apply next week .
What are the documents I have to submit to convince the visa officer regarding Travel history , current job situation , purpose of travel & connection with country of residence .
Kindly guide f
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Ranjan,
You should always submit cover letter. Please check my document list. Also, many visitors has provided the list of documents they have provided, please check comments.
Cy
I just wanna know how to make cover letter? I mean the format of the letter?
Thanks in advance
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi,
Please see my post on different letter format. Hope it will help you.
Cy
Thanks! It will help me a lot. Anyway where you attached the cover letter? In online application
Pawan Bahuguna
I submitted offline application as it has great flexibility to submit all the documents.
AARTI YADAV
325000 fund is in our joint account. I got confirmation and statement both from the bank. Do you think any other documents are required or its enough and plz let me know there is chances of approval or not?? accordingly i’ll put my file on monday.
Pawan Bahuguna
What funds your husband has apart from this joint account? And for how many days you are going.
Also, try to make a finance sheet and put all the assets and bank balance on it and sum all the amount. If you have credit card you can also put its limit as a proof to show money.
RP
Hi there,
I am planning to visit my girlfriend in Manitoba. I am a student and I am planning to visit her this summer. I have had previous travels to the US and UAE. I will also submit a certificate from my school regarding my good school standing. I also have only about 2,000 CAD in my bank account. I also want to book a flight already but I’m afraid it will go to waste if I don’t get approved.
My question is, since I am still a student, can I submit my parents income or bank certificate together with my bank statement to strengthen my financial capability?
Another question is would i get a higher chance of getting approved if I choose tourism as my reason in applying for a visa rather than visiting a friend? Because I read somewhere that visiting a girlfriend would most likely be a reason for them to deny me a visa since it can be a reason not to go back to my country. Sorry for the long post and great site by the way!
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi RP,
Yes, you can submit your parents income proof along with letter from your parent, that they are supporting you financially to visit Canada. You can choose tourism and friend visit. Does your girlfriend work?
You will have to write strong cover letter and should show that you are going to come back.
RP
Hi there. Yes she has a job in canada right now. Will I have more chances of being approved a Visa if I state that I am going to visit my girlfriend or should I choose tourism as my reason? Thanks in advance! You are really of big help sir! More power.
Pawan Bahuguna
You can get invitation letter from her as a friend and also ask her to include her financial details if you are going to stay with her.
Follow below link. It has what to include in invitation letter.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/letter.asp
Larry
hello,
what is the chance of someone applying for a TRV and doesn’t have property such car and house. but has family and job back back home? what is the chance in such case?
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Larry,
All these things are just to show you have strong ties with your home country. These are not necessary.
Larry
So you mean the visa can still be granted?
Pawan Bahuguna
Yes, why not. It depends if visa office is convinced or not.
RP
Thank you big help! How about if I apply for tourism purpose, do I need to purchase an airline ticket to be submitted with my application?
Pawan Bahuguna
If you are applying for tourism purpose, prepare your complete itinerary. Yes, round trip tickets confirm you have plan to go to Canada and return back. They are not compulsory.
Pradeep
Hi All,
I would like to know if it is mandatory to have return ticket in hand while entering Canada with Visitor visa. Will the Immigration/customs officer be asking the return ticket at the port of entry? I am aware that return ticket is mandatory for USA, not sure for Canada.
I applied Visitor Visa for my mother in law and she just got it approved and stamped last week. It’s a multiple entry visa where she can visit multiple times but cannot stay inside the country for more than 6 months in one visit. But I can apply for extension at the end of 5th month which will be extended for another 1 year. Before I book the return ticket for her, I would like to know if it’s mandatory to have in hand at the port of entry or not.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Pradeep,
Immigration officers ask at Canada that what is the period of stay, but they don’t check actual ticket. So, I think it should be fine. But, you can research more.
Pradeep
That was a quick reply. Thanks Pawan
Pawan Bahuguna
You are most welcome Pradeep.
Larry
Hi Pawan,
What do you think should be the good length of stay as tourist? Do you think if you mention 10 days staying that will be okay, or 14 days, because some people said that you can not ask for shorter neither longer, please advise.
Pawan Bahuguna
I cannot comment on it. If you are going for vacation and have hotel booking then give that detail. And if you are going to meet friends and have a plan, then provide that date.
In my case, I mentioned 15 days and my mom mention 3 months. We submitted 2 applications on same time and mention we are going together and our visa got approved.
See what is your purpose to visit and mention accordingly. Good luck.
Ranjan Kumar
Hi Pawan,
My Canada visa got refused last week from Dubai VFS.
My Canada visa is refused on the grounds of my Travel history, current employment situation & Purpose of travel & tie to country of residence.
My Travel history.
I had traveled to Australia, USA, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Greece, poland, Czech, Ukraine, Georgia, Turkey, Ghana, Beni , Togo.
I had two Schengen( Italy ) visas, Australia vis & two Ukraine visas .
I have valid Schengen visa ( France ), Valid USA Visa for 8 more years , Ukraine Visa valid for one more year .
My current job situation .
I’m in my present company for last two & half years.
I had provided them a bank balance equivalent to 35000 CAD For last six months .
Can you guide how to re-apply ?
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Ranjan,
What documents you submitted?
1. What was purpose of your visit and what document you submitted for that.
2. Did you booked round trip ticket and insurance?
3. Did you submitted cover letter.
man
Even my friend tourist visa got rejected, I have submitted all the tickets as per this post including return ticket and insurance. Visa officer said they are not satisfied with
– reason of visit (declared- wanted to spend vacation)
-no intention to return India (declared- return ticket, leave letter from company, insurance and detailed plan during trip visit)
-duration of trip (12 days)
-Not sufficient money to cover the expense(declared- 9k Cad in my account since I’m going to cover my friend expenses and 2K Cad in friend and I think this is the sufficient for 12 days trip in Canada).
Looks like they have not observed my reference letter and other documents. Unfortunately, we have to cancel tickets, insurance and all.
They said if you can satisfy the above points, then you can submit documents again.. but I don’t have any idea what to do….
Pawan Bahuguna
Have you in your application or cover letter mentioned that you and your friend are going together?
What ties up you showed with your home country and have booked hotels as well?
You are only going for tourism or meeting friend?
man
This VISA application is for my friend only.
I’m working in Canada and I have invited my friend.
In letter, I have declared that I’ll cover the expense (stay, food, and other expenses) during trip and will take to few tourist places.
My friend submitted the letter from Company and Rental agreement.
Pawan Bahuguna
Looks like they rejected your friends application because of money. Did your friend showed any property and strong ties with home country?
Karan
Hello there, me and my wife are sponsoring unmarried sister in law from india under visit family and tourism category. She has no travel history since she was busy in studies but she has been working since last year in a school. Ties would be her both parents are in India and she has a job that’s very important to her and For school. Her vacation has been sanctioned from July to august for 4-5 weeks by the school. We will submit following documents
Invitation letter
My Canadian pp copy and my wife’s indian passport with pr copy
Chid birth certificate
Both Notice of assessment
Pay stubs
Husbands job letter, no job letter for wife since she was on Mat. leave
Bank balance
Applicants job letter
Applicants vacation leave letter
Applicants bank balance
Return ticket
Travel insurance
Hotel booking if necessary
Please let me know if I’m missing any thing.
Thank you.
Pawan Bahuguna
You are missing Cover letter and plan. Do make strong cover letter and mention all the family ties, why she want to visit, etc. in it.
ARINDAM
Hi Pawan,
You are rock. Got very quick reply. Thanks lot.
I will visit for 28 days and travel by bus (local transport) with help of some known residents. ( Don’t want to take invitation letter. Can I mention their name and address with tell no?
Basically, I will visit for tourism and not make much complicated with invited letter to meet with them for 4 week 4K CAD = 200K INR.
I have also with 250K INR limit credit card and a flat with my own name 7 Million INR value. Self business with TIN number. Can provide marriage certificate. I will visit alone and Liability MOM, DAD and WIFE.
How much chance to get VISA. Can you provide specially for me cover letter?
Thank again
Pawan Bahuguna
Hey,
Invitation letter can boost your application. If you are visiting friends ask them for invitation letter. Also, you Cover letter should be very strong. Mention all the things which I have included in the post.
Do show strong relationship with home country with intention to return back. Sorry, I don’t provide cover letter writing service. You can check my and other cover letter which is included in document post.
ARINDAM
Hi Pawan
Can you tell me in detail about invitation letter procedure?
How i will take invitation letter from them.
Is email without signature procedure will work in case of online application?
Thank you
Pawan Bahuguna
Sorry for late replying.
Ask them to write the letter in MS Word and take print out. Then they can sign it and send scan copy to you.
ARINDAM
Hi Pawan
I have arranged Invitation letters from my three friends . should I submit all 3 letters in online application documents?
Pawan Bahuguna
Hmm, Don’t have much Idea about 3 invitation letters. But, I don’t think you have any harm in mentioning all 3. Just in your Plan, put the date when you are going to meet your friends one by one.
ARINDAM
Ok Pawan
I saw here
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/letter.asp
No need bank statement and they sent me Citizen card, driving license and Birth certificate.
is it ok ?
As I will stay in hotel
Pawan Bahuguna
As per the link, invite should show finance proof, but as your are not living with them it can be neglected. But, officers can think why you are not living a single day with your friends. This is just my thought.
ARINDAM
Hi Pawan,
I am very Impressed with your article. I am going to apply online application. I have already bought flight ticket and hotel booking and planing to buy medical insurance before submit visa.
Cant provide invitation letter.
Please advice me on
1) how much min bank balance need to appear in statement? is 200K INR ok ?
2)Can you provide a nice cover letter ?
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Arindam,
1. Bank balance needed depends upon the period of your stay. Take assumption of around 1000 CAD / week.
2. Cover letter formats are given, please check different documents for Canada TRV.
Hope that helps.
Jasmine
Hi Pawan,
I am going to apply for TRV as my husband is a canadian citizen. We recently got married and i wanted to visit him and his family for 15 days. I am currently working and have traveled to UK officially. I do not have any assets on my name like property or flat but i have credit cards and bank statements showing salary flow monthly. I will book my to and fro air tickets and get an employer letter form the company stating my approved leaves for that time period. I will also get an invitation letter from my husband which also states he will bear my expenses while my stay there.
Lastly very important. I have already applied for PR spouse visa and awaiting that to be approved. Can you estimate the chances to approve TRV?
Thanks
Jasmine
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Jasmine,
You have a very good chance of TRV. Just write all these things in Cover letter and hope for best. As per news now spouse visa is more easy to get.
Good Luck.
Asma S
Hey Pawan,
I’m applying trv for canada on purpose to visit my husband whose work permit is valid till April and he intends to return back, my last application got rejected for travel history, funds and purpose of visit. Can you tell me what strong reason can I give to return back as i’m not employed nor a student and no assets as well and how can I make my application stronger.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Asma,
If you don’t have any funds available with you, then ask your husband to write a letter stating he will take care of your expenses. Also, to make your application stronger include round trip ticket with medical insurance.
NAFEES Naz Bhatti
Hello & Regards Brother.
I am really impressed by your authentic information and suggestions. Actually I have to apply for Canadian study permit for one year course of Learning French Language. My father gifted me a plot which cost is 20000$ approximately. I have the court affidavit of this gift deed, also have State Life insurance policy. Can I submit both these documents as a strong ties, if they could be impressive and helpful for visa grant?
Pawan Bahuguna
Yes, you can show all that documents with your application and can also mention your ties in your cover letter.
Kawal
Hi Pawan,
This is kawal from Delhi.
I am going to apply for Canada TRV this month along with my wife and son (5 years). I have traveled two times UK, one time Paris, Switzerland and Thailand. My wife also traveled with me uk, Paris and Switzerland last year. I am running a construction company (LLP) and have bank funds apprx. 40000 CAD in current and saving both accounts. And I have some properties in my and my wife’s name approx. 4 CR.
I have two daughters (not going with me). Sir, I want to know how much chances of visa and what can I include more in my application.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Kawal,
You have very good chances of Canadian visitor visa. Tell them why you want to visit and that you are truly going to return back as you have business in India and strong family tie ups. Please check about all the documents given above.
Let me know if you have any concerns or query. Also, go through the comments as many of the visitors have answered many question in this post.
Kawal
Thanks
Pawan sir
Kawal
Sir,
If I am showing whether I am going for summer vacations in the covering letter, then noc letter of my son from the school is important or not.
And should I include my mother’s property details or papers in the application.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Kawal,
If you son is also going with you for summer vacations, and he is having holiday during that period from school, then you can simply show his schedule for that time and I think it should be good.
I don’t mother property would help. If you already have enough money to show, then no need of it.
Kawal
Thanks
Parm
Hello pawan thanks alot for sharing great knowledge across.
Please help me with this confusion.
I have lived in Canada for last 6 years. Initially on study permit then work permit and I exit Canada on last day of my work permit and before I leave Canada I applied USA Visitor visa which i have for 10 years.
Now, I want to apply for TRV FOR CANADA for 2-3 weeks. Plzz advice me how much fund I gotta show? Job letter? Cover letter? Hotel booking and air tickets?
Do i need a invitation letter from my friend or my cousin?
How much time it takes (applying from India)
How much chances??
Pawan Bahuguna
Hello Parm,
Yes, all the thing you mentioned are required. Here is very useful link >> http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/guides/5256ETOC.asp
Also, if your friend or relative is inviting you, then you need invitation letter. There is no such criteria for funds. More you have, better your chances. This is mainly to proof you are self reliant and can support yourself. I have read in forums that at least you should have $1000/week per person.
Processing time from India is 24 working days, which does not include transit time between the VAC and IRCC office.
Reema
Hi, Pawan,
Really Good Job, Providing lots of information.
I am going to reapply for TRV Visa.
I have some questions, Request you to reply.
1) Can you provide your Cover letter or SOP as example.If possible mail to me.
2) My application rejected 6 months before, can you tell me, Is it necessary to add rejection letter while re-apply?
3) My company is not providing Leave letter, is it optional or it will impact to application? any substitute option available for this?
4) Is it required to add educational document in application ? like individual mark sheets?
5) Is it required to attach WES credential report and IELTS result, if available ?
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Reema,
1. You can find all the letters in link provided above in post.
2. You don’t need to add rejection letter. Just give your old CIC number and there is one field where you have to tell that, so fill form carefully.
3. So, you are not taking leaves? Just apply the leaves and take print out and also take bonafied certificate from company that you are employee.
Generally company don’t have any issue providing that letter.
4. No educational document is required in TRV.
5. I am confused. Are you going for study or as a tourist?
If as a tourist, then you don’t need WES report or IELTS score.
Hope it helps.
Regards,
Pawan
Reema
Thank you, Pawan.
I am going to apply for Tourist, but i consult a agent who told me to add this type of documents. But while searching online, i also came to know its not required but i confused. So, asked.
Also for leave letter, I talked with HR in company. They only provide bonafided letter. But they are not agree to give leaves dates in writing because of our company is Project based and leaves are depends upon work load. So, they are not giving advance confirmation for it in writing.
Thank you so much.
Pawan Bahuguna
No problem Reema.
You can just show bonafied certificate then. You can mention leave dates in your cover letter.
Reema
Dear Pawan,
Thank you so much for help. I got my Visa. I applied under category of ”Tourism”.
But Visa validity is for only 1 year. Now, I have few queries, Please request you to answer,
1) Visa is multiple entry and Validity is 1 year. So, Validity is showing Entry period? If I visit in last month then i have to leave before last date, or its depends upon immigration officer? and can it extendable?
2) Now I am planning to stay there 1 month with friends. So, how to convince immigration officer? Because i applied under Tourist Category.
3) Immigration officer will grant permission for 6 months? or if they will give few days then it will be extendable upto 6 months?
4) I am from India and is it required for eTA before departure ? or directly on this Visa stamp, can we departure? Based on this i will proceed for ticket booking.
Or if you have any information before departing then please let me know.
Thank you in advance.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Reema,
First of all congrats on getting your tourist visa.
Was your passport only valid for 1 year? Because multiple visa is provided for validity of your passport. My passport was valid for 5 years, so I got tourist visa for 5 years and my mom got for 10 years.
You have to leave Canada before the expiry of your visitor visa. Immigration office just ask for how man days you will stay, so you can tell them the date or show your return ticket. They won’t ask much questions.
Immigration officer will ask for return date which you also need to fill on the form while landing. So buy ticket in advance. If you want to book return ticket in Canada you can also do so, but don’t have much Idea about it.
Nothing else is required for Indian’s, you just need visitor visa which you have. Just book your tickets and go. You can also reschedule your return but it is little costly.
Randa
Hi,
It is such a wonderful blog with all the info one could need to apply for the visitor visa. Can you please give us info regarding the questions that the border services officers ask when we arrive to Canada and the 2 interviews regarding official documents and personal goods. More info can be found here: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/newcomers/before-border-interview.asp
Thanks 🙂
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Randa,
The link you have provided is more for people who are immigrating to Canada. Yes, once you arrive in Canada border security officer will ask for your passport and will ask questions like for how many days you are going to live in Canada and if recently you have been to countries which were infected by some deadly viruses.
Then in next check they will make sure you have not brought anything undeclared and will also ask if you have brought an gifts for relatives, etc.
Randa
Thank you for your immediate response. So that means people who are going to Canada on visitor visa will not actually be interviewed twice, it is more like briefly asking about official documents, purpose of visit, length of stay, and items you brought? Is there anything else they ask about? I read somewhere that one has to convince the border officer that he/she is leaving Canada after their approved stay ends and that’s why I thought I have to provide the same documents I submitted with my visitor visa application.
I apologize for asking so many questions.
Thanks again… I really appreciate it 🙂
Pawan Bahuguna
Yes, (hope laws has not changed) they just ask general questions only because you are visiting Canada for short term only. You have already convinced visa officer that you are going to leave Canada and that’s why they have issue Visa to you.
While traveling you just need passport, ticket and transit document (if required). While in flight they will ask to fill one border security form that’s it.
Randa
Thank you so much 🙂
Reema
Hi Pawan,
Thanks for below reply,
My passport is valid is till 2025. But don’t know why only 1 year i got.
Secondly, i have plan to visit in next month for for upto 4 weeks. But i am confused because immigration officer will stamp upto 6 months or he will stamp based on our return ticket ? Because if i want to reschedule then its difficult for me due to stamp.
Pawan Bahuguna
You are allowed to stay for 6 months. And if you have a plan to extend your stay, you can do that within 6 months. There won’t be any problem.
Mishal bhatti
Hello Pawan,
Your knowledge n information is just to impressive for all of us.
Pawan Bahuguna
Thanks Mishal for appreciating,
I am just sharing my experience. Also, there are other visitors who are helping others in this article.
Harry
Hi Pawan,
I am working in Uganda from 5 years. This year my employer changed the salary policy.
Before I was getting all my salary CAD 1800 in bank, but now they are giving half in bank CAD 900 and half in hand CAD 900. I don’t know how to show visa officer that my salary is 1800 as my employer don’t want to disclose my full salary.
I have CAD9000 in by account and hope it will be enough for me and my wife to stay in Canada for 10 days as my brother is inviting for his birthday party. Hope reason to visit Canada is valid.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Harry,
That’s not right that your employer is giving half of the salary in Cash. Till when you were receiving full salary in bank?
It depends this money is after booking round trip tickets or not. If you have already booked your ticket and insurance. This amount may be convince visa officer. You should also ask your friends to write letter stating that you will be living in his place and he will take care of your expenses there.
Only Birthday party does not look valid reason to me, but you never know. May be visa officers find it OK. You can also add other reasons like seeing Canada, etc.
man
I’m working as temporary resident in Canada and my girlfriend wanted to visit for 1 week around. Can someone help me for the below questions?
1. Can I sponsor my GF as she don’t have sufficient amount in bank? If yes, then what are the documents I have to show?
2. Any benefits for hiring Consultant for this? Or shall I go and submit the document as per above.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi,
Yes you can support your Girlfriend, but she should also have enough money to sustain in Canada. Like buy round trip tickets and medical insurance in advance. She can also show her credit cards statements.
I don’t think consultant will be of much help, because they only feel your application and charge very huge amount.
PV
Hi Pawan,
First, I would like to thank you for sharing the detailed article on Canada tourist visa.
I am a PR myself in Canada landed just 3 weeks back. I would like to bring my mother-in-law in Family Visitor visa asap to take care of my kids, so that I can look for a job. My wife already has a job with her Company in Canada. I have heard that Visitor visa processing through online is quicker and offline (paper work) takes longer duration. But, I see you have mentioned offline is quicker, need clarity on that. My mother-in-law has a house on her name, some amount of Gold.
Would that be enough to show some strong ties to her home country? My Father-in-law is also working in India and her Son is working too. I can show my wife’s employment letter as a financial evidence to support her during the stay here. I can get a letter from CA or MLA to have the financial support mentioned in their letter pad.
Please guide which is good Online or Offline? What evidence would I need further apart from a letter from CA?
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi,
Thanks for appreciating.
You and your wife both are PR, so there should be no problem. Just show your and your Wife pay stub and see if your earning are matching Canada government limit as per your family.
Yes, for me Offline application worked very well as I read in lot of forums that it’s taking time to process online application and also in offline application you can submit many supporting documents without any issue.
If you are applying visitor visa for your mother-in-law try to provide good supporting documents, which includes : Why she is visiting you, what is the stay time, visiting plan, round trip tickets, your letter or your wife letter stating you will support her financially, Medical insurance, her own properties and asset.
Also, do not forget to show strong ties with homeland like husband, son, grand children etc. You don’t need letter from MLA or CA for financial support letter, as you have to show actual documents.
Anmoljit Singh
Hi Pawan,
I got refusal in mine case along with my wife on Canada tourist visa.
I applied with 25414 CAD funds along with my father’s financial affidavit to support me mine funds are 15115 CAD and rest are of my father’s and I also show my two residential properties and 2 cars RC’s which is on my father’s name and residential properties is on the name of my mother’s.
I also attached a hotel booking and my family business which is named on my father. I am helping in that business with my father. My consultancy Global Guide Mohali charge me 50000 Rs. include embassy fees, but they just only fill my visa forms. Even they cannot attached anything on their companies letter head along with my application..
My application got refused and the reason they give that (my Given economic conditions, employment prospects, considering your travel history, economic establishment and family ties, I am not satisfied that you would respect the terms of your admission as a temporary resident in Canada), but I want to go to Canada for tourism purpose only.
Pls tell me what should I do for know and I think 50000 Rs. which (GLOBAL GUIDE CONSULTANCY MOHALI PUNJAB) include embassy fees is very expensive.
Pawan Bahuguna
Hi Anmoljit,
I think the official were not fully convinced by your application. Did you submitted any letter explaining all the things? Most of the money and property is not on your name, I think this could be the reason of your rejection.
Can you tell me if you submitted your ITR and you booked your round trip tickets?
They are charging lot of money just for filling application. So, better keep searching on internet and fill your application yourself.
Larry
okay that great