Canada Visitor Visa Document Checklist for Smooth Processing of Visitor Visa Application

As you are aware that getting a Visa to Canada or US is now getting tougher and often you hear the stories that even after issuance of Visa, the Visa issued is rejected. All these developments call for that the Visa application, whether for tourism, family reunions, or business purposes must be made with due care. The Canada visitor visa document checklist is your key to a successful application process.

Canada Visitor Visa Document Checklist

A well-supported Visa application is key to success in getting the Visa, and hence the necessity to comply with the Canada visitor visa document checklist.

Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents can lead to delays or rejections of the Visa Application.

A well-documented application should include an Index of Documents Submitted, which makes it easier for the Visa Officer to verify that:

1. All required documents have been submitted.
2. A double-check of the checklist of submitted documents helps to avoid common errors that could jeopardise your application.
3. It demonstrates your eligibility and intent to comply with visa conditions.

Check if you need a Canada Visitor Visa?

Unless you are from any countries as United States, Australia, UK, whose citizens are exempted from visa before visiting Canada and need only an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), you must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).

Besides the requirement of a Visitor Visa for tourism, family visits, or short-term business (up to 6 months), this visa is also required when one needs to transit through Canada for more than 48 hours.

Essential Documents for a Comprehensive Visitor Visa Application for Canada

Please note that the document checklist shared below is indicative and depending on your specific requirements and conditions, the visa document checklist may vary. Do ensure to cross check if your circumstances warrant a specific supporting documentas well besides the mandatory documents discussed below.

Core Documents for Every Applicant

The Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date. The passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

1. Completed Application Forms (IMM 5257 -Application for Temporary Resident Visa), duly filled out as per the accompanying instructions to fill the form;
2. IMM 5645 (Family Information Form) to be filled up for all applicants 18 and older.
3. Two recent passport-size photos meeting IRCC specifications (35mm x 45mm, white background) with name and date of birth written on the back of each photo
4. Ensure all forms are signed and dated.
5. Proof of payment of Visa Fees as applicable from time to time, Currently Application fee is CAD 100 per person, Biometrics fee: CAD 85 (if applicable, for ages 14–79).

Documents that demonstrate your financial strength, ties to your home country, and travel purpose, etc., increase the chances of approval for your visa application. Hence, it is advisable to include the following documents:

1. Bank statements for the previous 4–6 months) showing sufficient funds for your stay. Please note that ideally, the liquid funds should be CAD 2,000 per person for a 30-day visit, excluding visa fees.
2. Attach the salary slips, Acknowledgement of Tax return filed, preferably along with the computation of income.
3. Do attach Travel Itinerary indicating Flight reservations (to and from Canada), Accommodation details (hotel bookings or host’s address) and planned activities or the schedule of meeting (If applicable)
4. Ties to Your Home Country, and this can be demonstrated by an Employment letter stating your position, salary, and approved leave, Property ownership documents along with their valuation, Proof of intent to return, such as a return ticket.
5. Letter of Invitation, if available, from a Canadian resident (family, friend, or business contact). The letter of invitation should include the host’s name, address, relationship to you, financial support if offered.
6. Travel History with Copies of previous visas, entry/exit stamps, or expired passports.
7. Police Clearance Certificate, to prove you have no criminal record.
8. No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer or educational institution, confirming your return.
9. Check IRCC website for any country specific requirement such as check if you need a visitor visa or an eTA based on your nationality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Your Canada Visitor Visa Document Checklist

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Forms: Double-check IMM 5257 and IMM 5645 for errors or missing information. Do ensure to check if you have signed and dated the same
2. Insufficient Funds- do take professional help for getting a net worth statement if required to support that you have adequate resources to fund your trip
3. Missing Ties to the Home Country that fail to demonstrate your intent to return. Documents as property ownership, its valuation, marriage certificate and children’s details, if not accompanying you, do help demonstrate your intention to return.
4. Do ensure to submit a certified translation of documents where required. The translation must be in English or French.