Canada Visitor Visa 2027: How to Apply
Learn who needs a Canada visitor visa, how much money you need, when you need an invitation letter, the fees and steps to apply, and why visas get refused.
Sara Ahmadi
Last updated
What a Canada Visitor Visa Lets You Do
Whether you want to see Niagara Falls, visit family in Toronto or attend a business meeting in Vancouver, a visitor visa is your ticket to Canada. It lets you travel to Canada for tourism, family visits or short business trips. Most visitors can stay for up to six months on each visit, and the visa can be valid for up to 10 years, or until your passport expires. It is not meant for working or long-term study, which need separate permits.
Who Needs a Canada Visitor Visa
Most travellers need a visitor visa to enter Canada. Citizens of visa-exempt countries who fly to Canada usually need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead, which is a quick online approval. Use the official IRCC tool to check which document you need before you apply. To get a visitor visa, you need a valid passport, good health and no criminal or immigration-related convictions.
How Much Money You Need for a Canada Visitor Visa
There is no fixed minimum amount for a visitor visa. The money you need depends on how long you will stay and whether you will stay in a hotel or with family or friends. Your funds should clearly cover your flights, accommodation and daily costs for your whole trip. You can show this with recent bank statements, proof of your salary or income, and, if your host will pay some costs, proof of their support. Officers also look at whether the money in your account matches your job and income, so large, unexplained deposits can raise doubts.
Do You Need a Letter of Invitation?
Not always, but IRCC sometimes asks for one, and it is very helpful if you are visiting family or friends. The letter should include your full name, date of birth, address, your relationship with the host, the purpose and length of your trip, where you will stay, how you will pay for things and when you will leave. Your host must also include their own details, their job, their status in Canada and a copy of a document that proves it, such as a citizenship card or permanent resident card. An invitation letter does not guarantee a visa, and writing one does not make your host legally responsible for you.
How to Apply Step by Step
First, create an IRCC account and fill out the online application. Next, upload your documents: your passport, proof of funds, proof of ties to your home country such as a job letter or property documents, your travel plan, and your invitation letter if you have one. Then pay the fee of CAD $100, plus CAD $85 for biometrics if you need to give your fingerprints and photo. After you apply, book your biometrics appointment quickly, because your application cannot move forward without it. Apply well before your trip, and check current processing times on the IRCC website.
Why Are Canada Visitor Visas Refused?
The most common reason is weak ties to your home country, which makes the officer doubt that you will return. Other reasons include not enough money, an unclear travel purpose, and missing documents. You can reapply at any time, but first fix the problems mentioned in your refusal letter.
Can You Work or Study on a Visitor Visa?
You cannot work in Canada on a visitor visa. You can take short courses of six months or less, but longer programs need a study permit.
Can You Extend Your Stay in Canada?
Yes. You can apply to extend your stay before your current status expires. If approved, you receive a visitor record with your new leave date.
See How Canadian Immigration Policy Is Set →
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