Canada tourist or visit visa is a visa that allows visitors or tourists to enter Canada on a temporary basis for visitation or for tourist and leisure purposes.
The Canadian tourist visa is granted for a maximum period of six months. There is room for extension but that attracts extra pay and some other processes.
There are two types of tourist visas and each of them remains valid for a fixed period and once expired cannot be reused.
Single entry visa: As the name implies, a single tourist visa allows the visa holder to enter Canada once. After he leaves Canada he will need a new visa to enter again even without the visa expiring. The only exemption is if the tourist traveled to the United States, St. Pierre, and Miquelon, he or she will not need a new visitor visa to return to Canada.
Multiple entry visa: This allows a visitor to enter Canada several times without having to apply for another visa. The multiple entry visa can be valid for up to 10 years, or one month before the visa holder’s passport expires.
Steps to apply for a Canada tourist/Visiting visa
Before you get started with applying for a Canada tourist visa, read the complete information on the visa/permit requirements on the CIC website to be sure that you are eligible for the application. Once that is confirmed, you can go ahead with the procedures below.
Step 1: Choose how you want to apply.
It’s either you apply online or you apply on paper but whichever one you choose will lead to getting a visiting visa.
Apply Online – To apply online you should have access to a credit card and a scanner or camera in order to be able to create electronic copies of your supporting documents. For online applications, you can click here.
Apply on paper – To apply on paper download the application form for your visa and the relevant checklist and follow the steps mentioned below.
Step 2: Fill out the tourist visa application form
Read the instruction guide and carefully fill up the application form. Note that the completed application must include the barcode page. Your application may be returned or refused if you do not provide all the requested information, documents, and fees.
Step 3: Pay the processing fee
Pay the fees for your visa application. Fees must be paid via bank draft or certified cheque. You must refer to the fee schedule for current fees and bank draft details. Note that you must check this webpage again just before paying for the latest information on visa application fees.
Step 4: Visit the local Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC)
Visit your local Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC). Remember to carry your passport, photographs, completed forms, and all supporting documents as per checklist and CIC fee instrument and payment instructions.
Step 5: Submit your application form
At the CVAC submit your completed application and pay your service charges. You will receive a receipt. This receipt will contain your unique tracking number which is necessary to track the progress of your application online. You will also be required to give your biometrics.
Step 6: Track your application online
Using the unique tracking number, track your application online.
If your application for a tourist visa is denied, there is no formal appeal process or a refund of application money. Should you wish to reapply make certain that all the relevant information and documents are complete.
