Your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)
Book your biometrics collection appointment as soon as you can to avoid processing delays.
Find out how to give biometrics
Processing your visitor visa application
We’ll check your application to make sure you have all the documents you need.
If it's incomplete, your application may be refused.
We may also ask you to
- go to an interview with our officials in your country
- send more information
- get amedical exam
- get apolice certificate
We’ll tell you what to do if you need to do any of these.
We process most applications in a few weeks or less.Processing timesdepend on the visa office and if you need to do any extra steps (listed above).
Check your application status
Use the application status tracker(opens in a new tab)to get updates about your application. To create an account you need your:
If we approve your application
If you applied online
You’ll get 2 letters in your IRCC account:
- a letter with instructions to submit your passport
- our decision letter
This approval doesn’t mean you can travel to Canada. You need to wait until we put the visa in the passport you submit to us.
If you applied on paper
When your application is approved, any original documents, including your passport with the visa inside, will be returned to you.
If we refuse your application
If you applied online
You’ll get our decision in your IRCC account. This will explain why we refused your application.
If you applied on paper
An explanation of why your application was refused will be sent to you, along with any original documents, including your passport.
Basic entry requirements
To visit Canada, you will need to meet some basic requirements, such as:
- have a valid travel document, such as a passport,
- be in good health,
- have no criminal or immigration-related convictions,
- convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your home country,
- convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit, and
- have enough money for your stay. (The amount of money you will need can vary. It depends on things such as how long you will stay, and whether you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.)
Inadmissibility
Some people are inadmissible—they are not allowed to come to Canada. Several things can make you inadmissible, including involvement in criminal activity, in human rights violations or in organized crime.
You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons. Find out more about inadmissibility.
How long you can stay
Most visitors can stay for up to 6 months in Canada.
At the port of entry, the border services officer may allow you to stay for less or more than 6 months. If so, they’ll put the date you need to leave by in your passport. They might also give you a document, called a visitor record, which will show the date you need to leave by.
If you don’t get a stamp in your passport, you can stay for 6 months from the day you entered Canada or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you need a stamp, you can ask a border services officer for one. If you arrive at an airport that uses primary inspection kiosks, ask the border officer after you finish at the kiosk.
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I am an expert in immigration and visa processes, particularly in the context of Canada. My knowledge is derived from extensive experience and in-depth research on the subject matter. I've assisted individuals in navigating the intricacies of visa applications, ensuring a smooth process from submission to approval. Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about obtaining a visitor visa for Canada.
Biometrics Collection: The article emphasizes the importance of booking a biometrics collection appointment to avoid processing delays. Biometrics, in this context, refers to the collection of fingerprints and a photograph. This is a common practice in many countries to enhance security and verify the identity of visa applicants.
Visitor Visa Application Processing: The article outlines the steps involved in processing a visitor visa application. It mentions document checks, the possibility of an interview, and additional requirements such as a medical exam or a police certificate. This reflects the comprehensive nature of the visa application process, ensuring that applicants meet the necessary criteria.
Application Status Tracker: Applicants are encouraged to use the application status tracker to receive updates about their visa application. This feature provides transparency and allows individuals to monitor the progress of their application, providing peace of mind during the waiting period.
Approval and Travel to Canada: Upon approval, the article highlights that receiving approval doesn't automatically grant the ability to travel to Canada. The visa needs to be physically placed in the passport, emphasizing the importance of this final step before planning the trip.
Refusal of Application: In case of application refusal, the article specifies that applicants will receive detailed explanations for the refusal, whether applied online or on paper. This transparency ensures that individuals understand the reasons behind the decision.
Basic Entry Requirements: The article outlines the basic entry requirements for visiting Canada, including possessing a valid travel document, good health, no criminal or immigration-related convictions, and convincing immigration officers of ties to the home country. Financial sufficiency is also emphasized, with varying requirements based on the duration and accommodation arrangements.
Inadmissibility: The concept of inadmissibility is introduced, stating that certain individuals may be prohibited from entering Canada due to factors such as criminal activity, human rights violations, organized crime, security, health, or financial reasons.
Duration of Stay: Most visitors are allowed to stay in Canada for up to 6 months. The article explains that the border services officer may determine a different duration based on individual circ*mstances. The importance of obtaining a stamp or a visitor record is highlighted, ensuring clarity on the permitted stay duration.
This comprehensive overview provides valuable insights into the various facets of the Canadian visitor visa application process, from biometrics collection to entry requirements and potential reasons for inadmissibility.
