With this visa, you’ll have the chance to visit captivating cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal, immerse yourself in various cultures, and enjoy Canada’s diverse tourist attractions. The Canadian tourist visa not only grants you access to the country’s natural and cultural wonders but also offers an unforgettable experience of its unparalleled hospitality and diversity.

In this article by Synova, join us as we delve into everything you need to know about obtaining a Canadian tourist visa.

What is a Canada Tourist Visa?

The Canada Tourist Visa, also known as the Visitor Visa or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is a document that allows foreign nationals to temporarily enter Canada as tourists, family visitors, or business travelers. This visa is categorized as a temporary resident visa and is typically granted to individuals intending to stay in Canada for a short period.

The validity of a tourist visa is usually up to six months per entry. However, if the validity of your passport expires before this six-month period, your tourist visa will also expire, requiring you to return to your home country.

Types of Canada Tourist Visas and Their Validity

The validity of a Canada tourist visa varies depending on its type. Let’s explore the different types of Canada tourist visas and their respective validity periods:

1- Single-Entry Tourist Visa

With a single-entry tourist visa, you can visit Canada only once for a maximum stay of six months. Although the visa is typically valid for six months, the actual duration depends on the decision of the border services officer at the time of entry. Additionally, if your passport expires before the six-month period, you may need to leave Canada earlier.

2- Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

The multiple-entry tourist visa is valid for up to five years and allows you to enter and leave Canada as many times as you wish during its validity. Each entry permits a stay of up to six months. However, after the six-month period, you must leave Canada (even for a few hours) before re-entering.

3- Super Visa

The super visa is another type of tourist visa, valid for up to 10 years, designed specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This visa allows eligible individuals to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time without needing to renew their status.

However, since Iranian passports have a maximum validity of five years, super visa holders must leave Canada when their passport expires, even if the visa itself is still valid.

Requirements and Documents for a Canada Tourist Visa

To apply for a Canada tourist visa, you’ll need the following documents and meet specific requirements:

General Requirements

  • Visa Application Form: Complete and accurately filled application form.
  • Valid Passport: A passport with at least six months of validity from your intended date of entry to Canada.
  • Translation of Documents: Translated versions of relevant documents, such as marriage certificates (if applicable), educational documents, military service exemption (if applicable), and a police clearance certificate.
  • Passport Photos: Standard-sized photos meeting Canada’s specifications.
  • Financial Proof: Documents proving your ability to cover travel and stay expenses, such as bank statements, pay stubs, or other financial evidence.

Employment Documents

  • For employees: Employment verification letter, copies of work contracts, pension statements (if retired), recent pay stubs (last six months), insurance records, and leave approval letters.
  • For self-employed individuals: Business registration documents, articles of incorporation, tax payment records, payroll lists, or business licenses.

Property and Financial Assets

  • Property ownership documents (e.g., apartments, villas, or land).
  • Bank confirmation letters or other financial statements demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay in Canada.

Travel-Related Documents

  • Invitation Letter: If visiting family or friends, an official invitation letter is required.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations or the address of your host in Canada.
  • Round-Trip Tickets: Proof of intent to return to your home country after your visit.

Biometrics and Interviews

  • Biometric Data: Applicants may need to visit a designated center for fingerprinting and photo capture.
  • Interview: In some cases, applicants might be required to attend an interview at a Canadian embassy or consulate.

Additional Notes:

  • For Minors: Applicants under 18 must provide a parental consent form. Minors cannot travel alone and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
  • Extended Stay: If you intend to stay beyond the visa’s validity, apply for an extension before your current visa expires.

Reasons for Canada Tourist Visa Rejection and How to Mitigate Them

Understanding the common reasons for visa rejection can help you prepare a stronger application. Below, we outline these reasons and provide strategies to address them:

1- Invalid or Expired Passport

Reason: Submitting a passport with insufficient validity or one that has already expired.
Solution: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry to Canada. Renew your passport if it is close to expiring.

2. Involvement in Criminal Activities

Reason: A criminal record, even for minor offenses, can lead to visa rejection.
Solution: Obtain a police clearance certificate demonstrating a clean record. If you have a past conviction, consider seeking legal advice to determine eligibility for rehabilitation under Canadian immigration laws.

3. Lack of Strong Ties to Home Country

Reason: Failing to provide evidence of commitments that require you to return home (e.g., family, employment, property).
Solution: Submit documents such as:

  • Proof of employment (employment verification letter, salary slips).
  • Property ownership (real estate deeds, lease agreements).
  • Family ties (birth certificates, marriage certificates).

4. Insufficient Financial Means

Reason: Immigration officers may reject applications where applicants cannot prove they can financially sustain themselves during their stay.
Solution: Provide clear evidence of financial stability, such as:

  • Recent bank statements showing adequate funds.
  • Proof of regular income (salary slips, pension statements).
  • Supporting documents from sponsors, if applicable, along with their financial proof.

5. Failure to Convince Immigration Officers

Reason: Inability to prove that you will leave Canada before your visa expires.
Solution: Include a detailed Letter of Intent that outlines:

  • Purpose of your visit.
  • Planned duration of stay.
  • Your itinerary, including round-trip tickets and confirmed accommodation.

6. Participation in Organized Crime or Human Rights Violations

Reason: Past involvement in illegal activities or human rights violations can disqualify applicants.
Solution: If applicable, provide documentation or legal clearance proving innocence or rehabilitation.

Tips to Strengthen Your Canada Tourist Visa Application

  1. Prepare a Comprehensive Application: Double-check that all forms are correctly filled out and include all required supporting documents.
  2. Write a Strong Cover Letter: Explain your travel purpose, financial means, and intention to return home. This is especially important if your circumstances might raise questions.
  3. Be Honest and Transparent: Provide accurate information and avoid exaggerating or falsifying documents.
  4. Use Professional Translation Services: If your documents are not in English or French, ensure they are translated accurately by certified translators.
  5. Seek Legal Advice if Necessary: If you have unique circumstances, such as past visa refusals or criminal records, consult an immigration lawyer or consultant for guidance.
  6. Stay Updated on Visa Requirements: Ensure you meet all criteria according to the latest updates from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

How to Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa

Applying for a Canada tourist visa through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) website involves the following steps:

1. Create an IRCC Account

Start by creating an account on the IRCC website. To create an account, you first need an invitation code. Enter your email address to receive the code, then click Sign Up and follow the instructions to complete your registration.

2. Complete the Online Application Form

Once your account is ready, go to the Apply for Visitor Visa section and complete the relevant form. Click on Apply Online and log in to your GCKey account. After logging in, you can fill out the tourist visa application form and upload the required documents. Based on the answers you provide, you’ll receive a personalized list of required documents.

3. Prepare and Upload Required Documents

Gather and scan all required documents, then upload them to the designated sections. The required documents typically include:

  • A valid passport.
  • Passport-sized photos that meet Canadian visa photo requirements.
  • Financial documents (e.g., bank statements).
  • A letter of explanation detailing the purpose of your visit, intended duration of stay, and travel plans.
  • Round-trip tickets (if available).
  • Invitation letter (if applicable).
  • Proof of accommodation in Canada, such as hotel reservations.

4. Pay the Application Fees

Visa application fees must be paid online. These include the processing fee and biometric fees (if required). The visa processing fee is CAD 100 per person, and for a family of up to five members, the fee is CAD 500. To pay:

  • Go to the Fee Payment section of your account.
  • Enter your credit card details and pay the fees.

5. Submit Biometrics

If you haven’t submitted biometrics within the past 10 years, you’ll need to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo). After submitting your application, you’ll receive a letter inviting you to complete your biometrics. Visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to complete this step.

Note: Since there are no VACs in Iran, you will need to travel to a nearby country, such as Turkey. This process may require a 3-day trip, costing approximately 15 to 20 million IRR. At Synova, we can arrange a 2-night stay at a 5-star hotel in Turkey to ensure a smooth biometric process.

6. Submit the Application

After completing the form and uploading all documents, submit your application online. If approved, the IRCC will send you a decision letter and a passport request letter.

7. Track Your Application

You can monitor the status of your application through your online IRCC account. Log in, navigate to the Application Status section, and check your application’s progress.

8. Receive the Application Outcome

Once your application is processed, you’ll receive the final decision:

  • If approved, your passport will be returned with the tourist visa affixed.
  • If denied, you’ll be informed of the reasons for the rejection.

If you’re traveling with a minor (child under 18), you’ll need additional documents proving the child’s eligibility to travel. Make sure to save a copy of your application submission confirmation.

At the port of entry, you may also be required to show the invitation letter (if applicable) to a border services officer.

Important Tips for a Successful Application

  1. Complete Your Documents Accurately: Double-check to ensure all forms and documents are complete and accurate.
  2. Plan Ahead: Submit your application several months in advance to avoid delays.
  3. Provide Accurate Information: Ensure all details are correct, as inaccuracies or false information can lead to rejection.

When You Enter Canada on a Tourist Visa

Upon arriving in Canada at one of the country’s four major airports, the following steps will occur:

  1. Biometric Verification at Primary Inspection Kiosks
    Your fingerprints will be scanned at a primary inspection kiosk. The system uses your biometric data to verify the accuracy of the information provided in your visa application and ensure that you are the same individual whose tourist visa was approved.
  2. Meeting with a Border Services Officer
    If you arrive at a land or sea port of entry instead of an airport, you’ll meet with a border services officer. The officer may direct you to a secondary screening area, where an advanced fingerprint verification device will be used to confirm your identity.

Important Notes

  • Ensure you have all the required travel documents, including your passport, visa, and any additional supporting documents like an invitation letter or proof of funds.
  • The border officer has the authority to ask questions about the purpose of your visit, your planned duration of stay, and whether you have sufficient funds for your trip.
  • If any discrepancies arise during the biometric or document checks, additional screening may occur.

Tourist Visa to Canada with an Invitation Letter

If you have a relative in Canada who is a citizen or a permanent resident, they can support your Canadian tourist visa application with an invitation letter. This letter must include important details about both the inviter and the invitee, as outlined below:

Details of the Inviter

  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • Address and phone number in Canada
  • Current immigration status in Canada (citizen, permanent resident, etc.)
  • Job title or employment details

Details of the Invitee

  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • Address and phone number in their home country
  • Relationship to the inviter (e.g., sibling, parent, friend)
  • Purpose of the visit (e.g., vacation, family reunion)
  • Duration of stay in Canada
  • Accommodation details (e.g., staying with family, hotel)
  • Explanation of who will cover expenses
  • Planned departure date from Canada

Notarization of Invitation Letter

The Canadian Immigration Office may request the invitation letter to be notarized. In such cases, ask the inviter to provide a notarized letter with an official stamp for submission.

Travel to Canada with a Tourist Visa

The Canada Visitor Visa is your gateway to experiencing the country’s world-renowned attractions. Whether you’re marveling at the Niagara Falls, exploring vast national parks, or enjoying the vibrant culture of Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, this visa allows you to make the most of your trip.

Synova’s Support for Canadian Tourist Visa Applications

At Synova, we provide comprehensive assistance to simplify your journey. From preparing essential documents such as financial cover letters and application forms to guiding you through biometrics (even in Turkey), our team ensures a seamless process.

Why choose us?

  • Expert support from RCIC-certified professionals
  • Assistance with documentation, including invitation letters and notarization
  • Guidance through every step, from applying online to submitting your passport

Planning your trip to Canada? Contact our Synova support team today for expert help in making your dream trip a reality!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Is an interview required for a Canadian tourist visa?
    Typically, no interview is needed for a Canadian tourist visa. However, you may still need to meet with a border services officer to verify your identity before entering Canada.
  2. How long does it take to get a Canadian tourist visa for Iranians?
    The current processing time for a tourist visa is about 109 days. If you don’t receive a response within this time frame, you can request a mandamus order in Canada to push the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to review your case.
  3. Is biometric collection required for a tourist visa?
    Yes, biometric data (fingerprints and photos) are required. If you’ve submitted biometric data within the last 10 years, you don’t need to do it again. Timely submission of biometrics is essential for processing your visa application without delay.
  4. What is the cost of a Canadian tourist visa?
    The fee for a single applicant is 100 CAD. If you’re traveling with family (5 members), the fee increases to 500 CAD. Additionally, if biometric collection is required, there’s an extra charge of 185 CAD. The visa pickup fee starts from approximately 1 million IRR.
  5. How much bank balance is required for a Canadian tourist visa?
    The minimum required bank balance for a 6-month stay is 12,000 CAD (2,000 CAD per month). The exact amount may vary depending on your accommodation and other factors.
  6. How much is the medical insurance for a Canadian tourist visa?
    Medical insurance for tourists in Canada costs about 5 CAD per day. For a 6-month stay, this amounts to approximately 900 CAD.
  7. Can you work in Canada with a tourist visa?
    While on a tourist visa, you cannot work directly. However, there is a temporary policy allowing visitors to apply for a work permit under specific conditions. Iranians currently in Canada on a tourist visa can apply for an open work permit free of charge until February 28, 2025.
  8. What are the chances of getting a tourist visa without an invitation letter?
    While an invitation letter is not mandatory, not having one significantly lowers your chances unless you provide a detailed travel plan, including hotel reservations and flight bookings.
  9. Who needs a Canadian tourist visa?
    Individuals needing a tourist visa to Canada include those traveling for:
  • Visiting relatives, friends, or acquaintances
  • Tourism and sightseeing
  • Business-related activities (business tourism visa)
  • Transiting through Canadian airports to another country.
  1. Do I need to submit my tourist visa documents in person at VFS or can I apply online?
    The Canadian Immigration Office recommends applying online for faster processing. However, it’s also possible to submit a paper application if necessary.
  2. Do single individuals have a chance of getting a Canadian tourist visa?
    Single applicants face stricter scrutiny since they have fewer ties to their home country. Therefore, their tourist visa approval may be more challenging compared to individuals with family commitments.
  3. Which countries can I visit with a Canadian tourist visa?
    With a multiple-entry Canadian tourist visa, you can also visit other countries such as Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, Egypt, Panama, and several others including Georgia, Montenegro, and Qatar.
  4. Do I need a tourist visa if I’m just transiting through Canada’s airport?
    Yes, even if you’re just transiting through a Canadian airport on your way to another country (e.g., the USA), you will need a transit visa, which is free. A transit visa allows you to stay in Canada for up to 48 hours.