Canada Visitor Visa: Requirements, Documents and How to Get Approved
A visitor visa (temporary resident visa) shows that you meet the requirements to travel to Canada. You must convince an officer that you have ties that will take you home, enough money and a plan to leave at the end. We review your file and your documents before you apply.
since 1991
Who can get a visitor visa?
You can get a visa if you have a valid travel document, are in good health, have no criminal or immigration-related convictions, have ties that will take you home, will leave at the end of your visit and have enough money for your stay. You may also need a medical exam and a letter of invitation (IRCC).
What helps an application succeed?
A clear purpose, real ties to home, enough funds and a complete file. See our post on the visitor visa cover letter, the Visiting Canada hub and the visitor visa refused guide. If you need an eTA instead of a visa, check IRCC first.
Key rules at a glance
- Passport: it should be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to travel.
- Checklist: your online application builds a personalized document checklist. Provide everything on it.
- Biometrics: you may need to give fingerprints and a photo, and processing time does not include this step.
- Visa officer decides: the officer chooses single or multiple entry and the validity, up to 10 years or your passport or biometrics expiry.
Which situation matches yours?
Pick the situation that matches yours below.
A visitor visa fits if
- You are visiting family, travelling or doing short business.
- Your passport requires a visa for Canada.
- You can show funds, ties and a return plan.
Another route fits if
- You are from an eTA country flying in: you may need an eTA, not a visa.
- You are a parent or grandparent: see the Super Visa page and the comparison guide.
- You want to work or study: see the work permits hub and the Study in Canada hub.
See the Visiting Canada hub and the family sponsorship hub for longer plans.
Why visitor visas get refused
Five problems cause most trouble. Source: IRCC.
Not enough ties to home
Officers look for a job, home, financial assets or family that will take you back. Thin ties raise doubt.
Not enough money
You need funds for your stay. The amount depends on how long you stay and whether you stay in a hotel or with relatives.
Purpose or plan unclear
A vague trip plan or a mismatch between your plan and your history can lead to a refusal.
Incomplete application
An incomplete application may be refused. Upload everything on your checklist.
Inadmissibility
Criminal, security, health or financial issues can make you inadmissible. Read our inadmissibility and refusals hub.
Not sure your file is strong enough?
We check your ties, funds and letters before you pay the fee.
Timing you cannot miss
Biometrics as soon as you can
Book your biometrics appointment as soon as you get the letter, to avoid delays. They are only needed once every 10 years for many applicants.
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from your travel date. If you need to renew, do it before you apply.
If you applied online and are approved, you get a letter in your account with instructions to submit your passport. You cannot travel until the visa is in it.
Documents to gather
Your online checklist is personalized. Start with these.
How a visitor visa application works, step by step
Six stages from your plan to your decision.
Check you need a visa
Use the IRCC questionnaire to see if you need a visa or an eTA.
Gather your documents
Collect funds, ties and an invitation letter if needed.
Apply online
Answer the questions and upload your checklist items.
Give biometrics
Do it as soon as you get the letter.
Respond to requests
IRCC may ask for an interview, a medical exam or a police certificate.
Get your visa
Submit your passport as instructed, then travel.
Visitor visa costs
From IRCC pages. Last updated: October 2026.
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Visitor visa FAQs
What is a visitor visa?
A visitor visa, also called a temporary resident visa, is a document IRCC puts in your passport. It shows that you meet the requirements to travel to Canada. You cannot travel until it is in your passport.
Who needs a visitor visa?
Most travellers do. You may need an eTA instead if you are from a visa-exempt country and fly in. IRCC has a questionnaire that tells you which document applies.
How much does it cost?
IRCC lists the visitor visa fee as starting from CAD$100. Biometrics cost CAD$85 if needed. Check the IRCC fee list.
What documents do I need?
A valid passport copy, plus the items on your personalized checklist. These often include proof of funds, ties to home and a letter of invitation. You may also need a medical exam.
How much money do I need to show?
It depends on how long you stay and where you stay, in a hotel or with friends or relatives. IRCC does not set one fixed amount, so show enough for your plan.
Do I need a letter of invitation?
Not always. IRCC may ask for one. A letter does not guarantee a visa. It should include details about you, the visitor, the trip and how costs are paid.
How long is a visitor visa valid?
Generally up to 10 years, or until your passport or biometrics expire, whichever comes first. The officer decides if it is single or multiple entry.
How long can I stay?
Most visitors can stay up to 6 months. The border officer may allow less or more and may give you a visitor record with a leave-by date.
Does a visa guarantee entry?
No. The border services officer decides when you arrive, so carry your documents and be ready to explain your trip.
Can I apply for a visa with a minor child?
Yes. Minor children under 18 may need a letter that authorizes travel, depending on whether they travel alone. Check the IRCC rules for your case.
How long does it take?
IRCC says most applications take a few weeks or less, but it varies by visa office and extra steps. Check the processing times tool for your country.
What if my visa is refused?
You can reapply with new information or ask the Federal Court to review the decision. There is no appeal. See our visitor visa refused guide.