What are the Canada Visitor Visa requirements for Indians?

Planning a trip to Canada from India? We aim to simplify the visa process and guide you through every step.

While we don't currently process applications for the Canada Visitor Visa, we can help you understand the process and requirements.

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Canada?

Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to travel to Canada. Depending on your reason for visiting, you might require a Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa), work permit, or study permit.

Types of Canadian visas available for Indian citizens

Here are the primary types of visas Indian citizens can apply for to visit Canada:

• Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa—TRV): For tourism, visiting family or friends, and short business trips.

• Study Permit: For educational programs lasting longer than six months.

• Work Permit: For individuals with a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.

• Super Visa: For parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing stays of up to two years per visit.

• Business Visa: For business meetings, conferences, and professional visits.

• Transit Visa: For layovers through Canadian airports.

• Permanent Resident Visa: For those seeking to immigrate to Canada permanently.

More about the Canada Visitor Visa for Indians

The Canada Visitor Visa allows Indian citizens to visit Canada for tourism, business meetings or to visit family and friends.

This visa typically allows multiple entries and permits stays of up to 180 days per visit, depending on the purpose of your trip.

Benefits of the Canada Visitor Visa for Indian citizens

With a Canada Visitor Visa, Indian citizens can:

• Explore Canada: Visit attractions like Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, and vibrant cities such as Toronto and Vancouver.

• Visit family and friends: Spend quality time with loved ones residing in Canada.

• Attend business events: Join meetings, conferences, or professional training.

• Take short-term courses: Participate in educational courses lasting less than six months.

Fun fact: When handling cash in Canada, you might hear some quirky nicknames. The one-dollar coin is called a "loonie" (thanks to the loon bird on it), and the two-dollar coin is a "toonie."

Canada Visitor Visa required documents for Indian citizens

When applying for the Canada Visitor Visa, you'll need to submit the following documents:

• Valid passport: Ensure it's valid for at least six months beyond your arrival in Canada.

• Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos meeting the visa application specifications.

• Proof of sufficient funds: Bank statements, employment letters, or other financial documents to prove you can afford your trip.

• Travel itinerary: Details of your travel plans, including flight bookings and accommodation.

• Purpose of visit documents: Invitation letters, conference details, or tour bookings, depending on the nature of your visit.

How to apply for the Canada Visitor Visa in India

The application process involves these steps:

1. Online application: Complete the visitor visa application through the official IRCC website.

2. Gather documents: Prepare all necessary documents as per the document checklist.

3. Biometrics appointment: Schedule and attend a biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

4. Application submission: Submit your application online, including all supporting documents and fees.

5. Await decision: Monitor your application status through your online account.

Where to submit your Canada Visitor Visa application in India

Visa Application Centers (VACs) for Canada Visitor Visa submission in India include:

Tips for a successful Canada Visitor Visa application

Increase your chances of visa approval with these tips:

• Provide strong supporting documents: Include proof of ties to India, such as property ownership, family connections, or stable employment.

• Demonstrate genuine intent: Clearly explain why you’re visiting and show evidence of plans to return home.

• Be accurate: Avoid errors in your forms and ensure consistency in your documents.

Cynthia Oliwa, iVisa travel expert, advises:

"Canadian immigration officers are thorough, especially if it’s your first visit. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, accommodations, and how you’ll fund your stay."

Common reasons for Canada Visitor Visa refusals

Here are some reasons applications are often denied:

• Lack of travel history: Limited travel experience can be viewed as a risk factor.

• Unclear purpose of visit: Ensure your purpose aligns with the visa type.

• Incomplete or conflicting information: Double-check your documents and details for accuracy.

If your application is denied, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons, which can help you prepare a stronger application next time.

How can I get through Canadian customs faster?

One way to get through customs faster at selected Canadian airports is to submit your customs and immigration information before you land.

The Advance CBSA Declaration form can be completed up to 72 hours before arriving in Canada. It allows you to access express lanes in the arrivals' hall, saving time.

"I flew into Toronto and filling out the declaration beforehand saved us so much time and energy! Customs at Pearson Airport was easily an hour or more of waiting. We skipped the whole line." - Ella P., recent traveler

This declaration must be filled out by every traveler entering Canada, even if you can enter the country without using a visa.

Need more help?

Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have any questions about traveling to Canada and the Canada Advance CBSA Declaration application. Contact us anytime via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.