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Canada Tourist Visa: Requirements and Application Process

Last Update: 29-08-2024

Canada Tourist Visa for Indians

⚡Quick Summary

Canada tourist visa processing time

50 to 70 working days

Canada tourist visa fees

CAN $100

Canada tourist visa validity

6 months

How to apply for a Canada tourist visa?

  • Through VFS Global
  • Canada’s official IRCC (Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website

Documents required for Canada tourist visa

  1. Passport
  2. Previous visas
  3. Visa Application Form
  4. Bank Statement (Last 6 months)
  5. See detailed list below

Introduction

Planning a trip to Canada to explore its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities is an exciting prospect. However, navigating through the Canada visit visa application process can be challenging, especially for Indian citizens. Understanding the Canada visa for tourists is crucial as Indian passport holders must obtain a visitor visa of Canada before their journey.


This blog provides a comprehensive guide to securing a Canada tourist visa for Indians, covering all essential aspects, including required documentation, application steps, fees, and Canada tourist visa processing times. Whether you are dreaming of experiencing the natural beauty of the Rockies, the bustling city life of Toronto, or the cultural diversity of Vancouver, this guide will simplify your Canada tourist visa from India application process.

Do I Need a Canada Tourist Visa from India?

Yes, Indian nationals need a visitor visa to visit Canada. A Canada visitor visa is an official document that allows foreign nationals to visit Canada temporarily. It is also known as a Canada tourist visa or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).

Table of Contents


  1. Canada Tourist Visa Requirements
  2. How to Apply for Canada Tourist Visa from India?
  3. Canada Tourist Visa Validity
  4. Canada Tourist Visa Fees
  5. Canada Tourist Visa Processing Time
  6. How to Check the Application Status of a Canada Tourist Visa From India?
  7. Can I Extend my Canadian Visitor Visa as an Indian?
  8. Rejection Reasons for Canada Tourist Visa from India
  9. FAQs

Canada Tourist Visa Requirements

Following are the documents required for Canada tourist visa:

DocumentDescription

Passport

  • Latest valid passport
  • Clear USA valid visa copy (if any)
  • Copy of entry and exit stamps from all countries visited.
  • Copy of the old passport, if applicable.

Photograph

  • White background
  • Size 35mm x 45mm
  • Face should cover 80% of the photo
  • Without specs and sunglasses
  • Should not be older than 3 months

Aadhaar Card

Colour copy of the Aadhar card.

Hotel Voucher

Confirmed hotel accommodation booking or voucher for the entire stay in Canada

Flight Ticket

Copies of both onward and return flight tickets.

Itinerary

Detailed day-to-day itinerary of your travel plans.

Bank Statement

  • Last 6 months’ bank statement
  • Should reflect sufficient funds to cover the trip cost for the last 6 months

ITR or Form-16

Income tax returns or Form 16 for the last 3 years.

Invitation Letter

  • Provide an invitation from Canada, stating passport details, purpose of visit, and accommodation details.
  • Include employment proof of the invitee, valid resident permit/visa copy, last six months' bank statements, and proof of relationship.

If Employed

  • Leave Approval Letter
  • pay slips for the last three months

If Self-Employed

  • Company’s Registration Letter

If Sponsored

  • Sponsorship Letter
  • Sponsor’s bank statement

If a Minor

  • Parents Authority Letter

If a Student

  • A letter of bonafide certificate from the educational institution.

Other Recommended Documents for Canada tourist visa application from India:

  • Previous visas on your passport as proof of travel history
  • Detailed travel itinerary in Canada including flight tickets, and proof of accommodation
  • Last 6 months’ bank account statement as proof of financial sufficiency
  • Authority to release personal information to a designated individual (IMM 5475) - This form allows the Canadian authorities to share your personal information with someone else you choose. The person you choose will be able to get information on your case file, such as the status of your application.

How to Apply for Canada Tourist Visa from India?

Canada Tourist Visa Application through Teleport

Follow these easy steps for a hassle free Canada tourist visa application with Teleport:


  1. Begin your Canada tourist visa application on Teleport’s website.
  2. Enter your travel and passport details and pay through Teleport. You can pay full or partial upfront.
  3. Your designated relationship manager will review and collate all documents for your Canada visa application.
  4. Teleport will book an appointment for you at the nearest VFS Visa Application Centre.
  5. Visit the VFS Visa Application Centre on your scheduled appointment date to submit your biometrics and documents.

After your appointment you can choose to have your passport couriered to you or pick up from the visa centre.

Apply for Canada tourist visa through IRCC portal

To apply through the IRCC Portal for a Canada tourist visa, follow these steps:


  • Step 1: Get an Invite Code and Create an Account: If it's your first time using the IRCC Portal, you'll need an invite code to create an account. Once you have the code, proceed to create your account on the portal and sign in.
  • Step 2: Complete the Online Form and Upload Your Documents: Fill out the online form with accurate information. Once completed, you'll receive a checklist of documents required for your visa application, such as visitor visa documents or super visa documents.
  • Step 3: Pay with a Credit Card: Payment for your visa application can be made using a credit card or prepaid card. IRCC accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, and UnionPay.

Canada tourist visa application using IRCC portal

VFS Canada Tourist Visa Application Process

To get a visa for Canada from India, you need to apply through the VFS visa application centres in India by following these steps:


Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type


Find the right visa for your trip. For tourism, apply for a Temporary Resident Visa.


Gather the required documents and also submit the VFS Global Consent Form along with your application.


Step 2: Fill out Your Visa Application Form


Fill out the Visa Application Form for Canada online. Print the form. Sign it.  The completed visa application form (including the barcoded sheets) should be printed on white, bond quality, non-glossy paper, using a laser printer. The 2D barcode (2 copies) should be printed on high-quality paper. Hand-written forms are not accepted.


You also need to submit the supporting documents along with the application form.  If you are unable to provide the supporting documents you need to submit the waiver form with your application form. Also, read the  Privacy Policy and fill out the consent form.


You can also submit your online application directly to Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC (Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada)).


Step 3: Book An Appointment With VFS Global


Book an appointment at the Canadian VFS Visa Application Centre to submit your fingerprints and get your photo clicked. If travelling in a group, book an individual appointment for each group member.


If you are not required to submit your biometric information, you do not need to book an appointment with VFS Global. You can walk-in to the Visa Application Centre with all the required documents and Canada tourist visa fees.


Step 4: Pay Your Visa Fees


Pay your Canada visa fee. A Canada visit visa costs around CAN$ 100. If you download the form to print and bring to the Visa Application Centre, payment will be made at the time of your appointment.


Step 5: Visit VFS Visa Application Centre


Submit your printed application form and documents at the VFS Global office. Pay the visa fee and submit your biometrics. You will receive a receipt against the fee paid that will contain your unique tracking number that will help you track your visa application status.


Step 6: Pick up Your Documents


Once your Canadian tourist visa is decided, you can collect your documents back from them. You can pick up the documents in person or avail the courier service at an additional cost.


To collect the decision envelope in person at the Visa Application Centre, you need to bring:

  • A copy of the biographic page of your passport
  • The original Visa Application Centre Services Receipt or the printout of the E-ICR
  • A government ID

You can also authorise someone else to collect your decision envelope. Your authorised person needs to bring:

  • The signed Visa Application Centre services consent form with the delegate’s name and relationship to the applicant
  • A copy of the biographic page of the applicant’s passport
  • The original Visa Application Centre Services Receipt or the printout of the E-ICR
  • A government ID of the delegate.

Canada VFS Visa Application Centres in India

LocationTime (Mon-Fri)

Ahmedabad

09:00 - 17:00

Bengaluru

09:00 - 17:00

Chandigarh

09:00 - 17:00

Chennai

09:00 - 17:00

Hyderabad

09:00 - 17:00

Jalandhar

09:00 - 17:00

Kolkata

09:00 - 17:00

Mumbai

09:00 - 17:00

New Delhi

09:00 - 17:00

Pune

08:00 - 16:00

Canada Tourist Visa Validity

A Canada tourist visa typically allows for stays of up to 6 months per visit and can be valid for up to 10 years.


Multiple-entry visitor visas allow the holder to visit Canada multiple times, with each visit allowing a stay of up to six months, as long as the visa remains valid. These visas can be issued for up to 10 years, though the specific validity period is determined by the visa officer. 

Canada Tourist Visa Fees

When applying for a Canada tourist visa from India, it’s essential to understand the various fees involved. Here’s a detailed look at the Canada tourist visa cost for Indian citizens: 

Fee TypeAmount

Visitor visa per person

CAN $100 or INR 5,960

Visitor visa per family (fee for a family of 5 or more people)*

CAN $500 or INR 29,795

Biometrics fees per person

CAN $85 or INR 5,065

Biometrics – per family (2 or more people)

CAN $170 or INR 10,130

To be eligible to pay the maximum fee of CAN$500 family members must all apply at the same time and same place and the children must qualify as dependents.


The Canada tourist visa fees for Indian applicants are non-refundable and subject to change. Additional fees may apply depending on factors such as foreign exchange fluctuations, courier delivery charges (if availed), etc. Always check the latest fee details before applying to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information.


Understanding these Canada tourist visa embassy fees will help you prepare better for your application process and avoid any unexpected costs.

Canada Tourist Visa Processing Time

The Canada tourist visa processing time can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the specific circumstances of your application. Generally, Canada visa processing time for Indians can range between 50 to 70 working days.

How to Check the Application Status of a Canada Tourist Visa From India?

  • If you have submitted your visa application online directly on the IRCC (Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website, please note that status updates related to your visa application can only be obtained from the IRCC (Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website
  • If you have submitted your application at the VFS Visa Application Centre, you can Track Canada visa using the “Track your application” feature. Simply visit the tracking page and enter the Tracking ID number mentioned on the receipt received from the Visa Application Centre, and your Date of Birth. 

Can I Extend my Canadian Visitor Visa as an Indian?

If you want to stay longer in Canada as a visitor, you need to apply for a visitor record. This document extends your permission to stay and sets a new date by which you must leave Canada. It's important to apply for a visitor record before your current status expires.


However, having a visitor record doesn't automatically guarantee that you can leave Canada and return. If you plan to travel outside Canada or the United States, you'll need a valid entry document like a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to come back to Canada.

Rejection Reasons for Canada Tourist Visa from India

When applying for a Canada visa, knowing what could potentially lead to denial is crucial for strengthening your application and boosting the likelihood of getting approved. Here are some important considerations:

  1. Lack of Proper Documentation: All Canada visit visa or tourist visa documents you submit must be authentic, complete, and satisfactory. Submitting incorrect or misleading information can cause your application to be rejected immediately and may lead to potential bans on future applications.
  2. Lack of Funds: Inadequate proof of financial stability and inability to cover the cost of your stay can lead to rejection.
  3. Weak Ties to India: Canada authorities may question your intentions to return to India, if you cannot demonstrate strong ties, such as family, property, or employment in India, and, hence, may reject your visa application.
  4. Questionable Travel Record: A history of overstaying visas in other countries could be seen as a red flag, suggesting a risk of not adhering to Canada’s visa regulations.
  5. Intentions Under Scrutiny: Not being able to convincingly explain the reason for your visit and its consistency with your planned activities might arouse suspicion. For example, expressing plans to work on a visa that doesn't allow employment could result in denial. 

Conclusion

Securing a Canada tourist visa for Indians involves meticulous preparation and a clear understanding of the Canada tourist visa requirements and procedures. This blog has detailed the essential steps for obtaining a visitor visa of Canada, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the application process.


From the necessary documentation to the specific Canada visit visa fee from India, and the importance of adhering to the visa photo size for Canada, every detail matters. Remember, there is no visa on arrival for Indian citizens travelling to Canada, so it is crucial to apply through VFS Global or the IRCC (Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada) well in advance. Understanding the different types of visa for Canada and ensuring you have the appropriate financial proof will strengthen your application.


FAQs

How much bank balance is required for a Canada tourist visa?

The specific bank balance requirement for a Canada visa from India varies based on your travel plans and financial circumstances. Generally, applicants should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover expenses such as accommodation, transportation, and living costs during their stay in Canada. It's essential to provide clear documentation of your financial situation, including bank statements and income proof, to support your visa application effectively.

Do I need travel insurance for a Canada tourist visa?

Travel insurance is recommended and often required for Indians applying for a Canada tourist visa. It helps cover medical expenses, emergencies, and other unforeseen events during your stay in Canada. While not always mandatory, having adequate travel insurance enhances your application and provides peace of mind for you.

Can I work in Canada on a tourist visa?

No, a Canada tourist visa does not permit you to work. If you intend to work in Canada, you must apply for the appropriate work visa.

How can I check the status of my Canada tourist visa application?

You can check the status of your Canada tourist visa application online through the IRCC website. If you applied via VFS Global, you can track it using the tracking ID on their website.

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