Canadian Visitor Visa
A Canadian visitor visa is a type of temporary resident visa (TRV) that allows foreign nationals to legally enter Canada for short stays. This visa is commonly issued for travel, tourism, visiting family and friends, or attending short business meetings or events. In most cases, a visitor visa allows a stay of up to six months per entry.
Whether you’re planning a vacation, checking out schools for your children, or spending time with relatives, having the correct visa is essential. At Dara Immigration Services Inc. (DIS), we assist individuals and families in securing their visitor visas with full legal compliance and peace of mind.
Who Needs a Visitor Visa?
Not all travelers need a visitor visa to enter Canada. Whether you require one depends on your nationality and the type of travel document you hold. For example, individual who are from visa-exempt countries such as France, Germany, United Kingdom, or Singapore can enter Canada with an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Such individuals do not need an ETA if arriving by land or sea, and a valid passport is sufficient. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, our consultants at DIS can evaluate your background and help determine whether a visa is necessary for your travel plans.
Canadian Visitor Visa Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a visitor visa, you must meet a number of conditions. While each application is unique, general requirements include:
- A valid travel document, such as a passport.
- Good physical and mental health.
- No history of criminal activity or immigration violations.
- Clear intentions to leave Canada at the end of your visit.
- Evidence of strong ties to your home country, such as employment, family, property, or financial assets.
- Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay, including accommodation, travel, and daily expenses.
You may also be asked to provide additional documents depending on your personal circumstances. DIS can help you prepare and organize your documents to ensure a complete and persuasive application.
Canadian Visitor Visa Application Process
Applying for a visitor visa involves several important steps that must be completed accurately to avoid delays or refusals. At Dara Immigration Services Inc. (DIS), we guide you through the entire process—from document preparation to submission—ensuring your application meets all requirements for a smooth and successful outcome.
Step 1: Eligibility and Documents
Before applying, it’s crucial to assess whether you meet the eligibility criteria. Once confirmed, you’ll need to prepare the necessary documents. These often include a valid passport, proof of financial support, travel plans and, in some cases, a letter of invitation from someone residing in Canada.
At DIS, we guide you through gathering all required documents and make sure nothing is missed or outdated.
Step 2: Application Submission
The next step is to submit your application. During submission, you will also pay the required government fees. It’s important that the application be completed truthfully and accurately to avoid processing delays or refusal. Our team at DIS handles all forms and documentation on your behalf to minimize the risk of errors.
Step 3: Biometrics (If Required)
Many applicants must provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) as part of the process. Once your application is submitted, you may receive an instruction letter with a deadline for completing this step at an authorized location.
DIS ensures that you complete all required steps within the allowed timeframe to keep your application on track.
Step 4: Processing and Decision
Processing times vary depending on the volume of applications and your country of residence. Once a decision is made, you will receive a written notice. If approved, the visitor visa will be affixed inside your passport.
Duration of Stay
Most visitors are allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months per visit. However, the exact length of stay is decided by the border services officer when you arrive in Canada. They may issue a stamp in your passport with a specific departure date, or no stamp at all—meaning you’re authorized to remain for six months from the date of entry.
If you’re unsure about how long you can stay or want to plan a longer visit, DIS can help interpret your entry conditions and advise accordingly.
Extending Your Stay in Canada
If you’re already in Canada on a visitor visa and wish to remain longer, you must apply to extend your stay as a visitor. This application should be submitted at least 30 days before your current status expires.
Here’s how the process works:
Assessing Eligibility
To extend your stay, you must still meet the original conditions of your visitor visa. You must also continue to demonstrate ties to your home country and show that you can support yourself during your extended visit.
Application Requirements
The application for an extension includes updated proof of funds, a valid reason for staying longer (e.g., family reasons, tourism, delays in travel plans), and updated travel documents. You must also pay the extension fee at the time of application.
Maintained Status
If your application is submitted before your visa expires, you may stay in Canada under maintained status (formerly known as implied status) while the decision is being processed. During this time, you can legally remain in Canada, but you are not permitted to work or study.
If you leave Canada while your extension is pending, you may need to reapply for a new visitor visa to return.
At DIS, we help ensure that extension applications are submitted properly and on time, allowing you to continue your stay without interruption.
Can I Work or Study on a Visitor Visa
A visitor visa does not allow you to work or study in Canada. If you wish to take part in any job or academic program while in Canada, you must apply for the appropriate work or study permit.
If your plans change while in Canada and you wish to pursue studies or employment, consult with DIS immediately to review your options and submit the correct application.
Get Expert Immigration Assistance with Dara Immigration Services (DIS)
Are you looking to visit Canada?
At Dara Immigration Services (DIS), we understand that navigating the immigration process can be complex. Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, work permit, study permit, family sponsorship, or seeking permanent residency, we will guide you every step of the way. From helping you understand the application process to ensuring all necessary documents are in order, we provide the personalized support you need to succeed.
Don’t leave your future to chance—reach out to Dara Immigration Services (DIS) today, and let us help you take the next step toward your Canadian dream.