Tourist Visa
Tourist Visa
Canada remains one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world in 2025. From the majestic Rocky Mountains and Niagara Falls to vibrant multicultural cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, the country welcomes millions of international visitors every year. If you are planning to explore Canada for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending an event, you will likely need a Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV).
What is a Canada Tourist Visa?
A Canada Tourist Visa is an official document stamped in your passport that shows you have met the eligibility requirements to enter Canada as a temporary resident for leisure, family visit, or tourism purposes. It is not a work or study visa and typically permits stays of up to 6 months.
Key Features of a Canada Tourist Visa
Validity: As per the discretion of IRCC, from 6 months or up to 10 years or until the expiry of your passport (whichever comes first)
Stay Duration: Up to 6 months per visit
Type: Single or Multiple Entry
Biometrics: Mandatory for most applicants
No work or study permitted
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a Canadian Tourist Visa in 2025, you must:
- Have a valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity)
- Show sufficient funds for your entire stay in Canada, based on your itinerary it can be between CAD 4000 to 10000 approx
- Additional funds may be needed depending on travel plans
- Demonstrate strong ties to your home country, such as employment, family, or property
- Provide a clear purpose of travel, such as tourism, visiting friends or family, or attending events or festivals
- Submit a letter of invitation from your host in Canada (if applicable)
- Have a clean criminal record and be law-abiding
- Be in good health, and undergo a medical exam if required
- Convince the visa officer you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
Documents Required
- Completed IMM 5257 Visa Application Form
- Valid Passport (with at least one blank page)
- Recent Photographs (as per IRCC specifications)
- Proof of Funds - such as bank statements (last 6 months), pay slips, income tax returns
- Travel Itinerary
- Round-trip flight tickets (recommended)
- Day-wise travel plan
- Hotel Bookings or accommodation proof
- Letter of Invitation (if visiting relatives or friends)
- Employment Letter or Proof of Business Ownership
- Cover Letter explaining your travel purpose
- Family Information Form (IMM 5645)
- Visa Fee Receipt - CAD 100 for the visa application
- Biometrics Fee Receipt - CAD 85 (if applicable)
Funds Required
As per the general financial expectation:
- Tourist Alone: Minimum CAD 4000 to 6000 approx for 30 days
- Family Visit (2 persons): CAD 8000 to 12000 approx
- Additional Proofs: Credit cards, travel insurance, property documents may strengthen the case
Application Process
- Gather documents
- Create IRCC account online
- Submit visa application and pay fees
- Book and attend biometrics appointment
- Wait for decision
- Receive Passport Request (PPR)
- Submit passport for visa stamping
Tip: You can apply online or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country.
Processing Time (2025 Updated Estimates)
- Average: 15 to 30 working days
- Additional time may be required for biometric submission, document verification, or medical examination (if needed)
Visa Validity and Stay Duration
- Multiple Entry Visa - lets you travel in and out of Canada as many times as you want while the visa is valid
- Single Entry Visa - allows one-time entry only
- Duration of Stay - Usually up to 6 months (the border officer will finalize the date when you land)
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Insufficient funds
- Weak ties to home country
- Lack of clear travel purpose
- Suspicious documents
- Past immigration violations
Always present genuine documents, a clear plan, and strong ties to home to improve your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I extend my stay in Canada as a tourist?
A: Yes. You must apply for an extension at least 30 days before your current visa expires.
Q: Can I convert a tourist visa to a work or student visa in Canada?
A: Yes, you can convert your visitor visa into study (basically in your first visit), but not to work permit from within Canada based on current IRCC policies.
Q: Do I need travel insurance?
A: While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to cover unexpected medical or travel-related costs.
Conclusion
Whether you are exploring Banff National Park, reconnecting with family, or attending a cultural event in Canada, the Tourist Visa makes it possible. Ensure you submit all required documentation, maintain transparency, and demonstrate that you will return after your visit.
If you need help with document preparation, application filing, or reapplying after a refusal — feel free to reach out to us. We are here to assist with your smooth and successful visa journey.