Canada Tourist Visa for Immigrants – Visa Sponsorship in Canada

Canada consistently ranks as one of the world’s most visited countries, attracting millions of tourists each year with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural diversity.

If you’re planning a short trip to Canada — whether for tourism, visiting family, or attending special events — understanding the Canada Tourist Visa (officially called the Temporary Resident Visa, or TRV) is essential.

What is a Canada Tourist Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)?

The Canada Tourist Visa (TRV) is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals from certain countries to temporarily visit Canada.

The TRV grants visitors permission to:

Types of Canada Tourist Visas

Visitors can apply for two types of tourist visas based on their travel plans:

1. Single-Entry Visa

Allows a one-time entry into Canada.
If you leave Canada, you will generally need a new visa to re-enter (unless traveling to the U.S. or St. Pierre and Miquelon and returning within your authorized stay).

2. Multiple-Entry Visa

Allows multiple entries into Canada over a period of up to 10 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Ideal for travelers who plan to visit Canada frequently without reapplying for a visa each time.

Who Needs a Canada Tourist Visa?

You will need a tourist visa if:

You are a citizen of a country not exempt from visa requirements for Canada.
You intend to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or short business activities.

Citizens from visa-exempt countries (e.g., the U.S., most EU countries, Australia, Japan) generally need only an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for air travel to Canada.

You can check your visa requirements on the official Government of Canada website.

Eligibility Criteria for a Canada Tourist Visa

To be eligible for a tourist visa, you must:

1. Hold a Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your planned stay (at least six months validity is recommended).

2. Have a Clear Purpose of Visit

Clearly explain whether you are visiting for tourism, family, or business purposes.

3. Demonstrate Financial Capability

You must prove you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay. Evidence may include:

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsorship letters (if applicable)

4. Prove Strong Ties to Your Home Country

This assures immigration authorities that you intend to leave Canada at the end of your visit. Proof can include:

Job letter or employment contract
Family obligations
Property ownership
Enrollment in school

5. Meet Health and Security Requirements

In some cases, you may be required to:

Undergo a medical examination (especially for longer stays or coming from certain countries).
Provide police clearance certificates to demonstrate you have no criminal record.

6. Submit an Invitation Letter (if Sponsored)

If visiting family or friends, a detailed invitation letter from your host in Canada strengthens your application.

How to Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa

The tourist visa application process involves several steps:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

You must prepare:

Completed IMM 5257 visa application form
Valid passport
Passport-size photos (meeting Canadian specifications)
Proof of financial means
Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservations)
Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
Ties to home country documentation
Medical exam results (if required)
Visa fee receipt

Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee

The application fee is CAD $100.
Pay online through the IRCC portal and keep the receipt.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Choose one of two methods:

Online through your IRCC account
In-person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country

Online applications are typically faster and more convenient.

Step 4: Provide Biometrics

Applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 must provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph) at an authorized center after submitting the application.

The biometrics fee is CAD $85.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Processing times vary depending on your country of residence but typically range from two to eight weeks. You can track your application status online.

Step 6: Receive Your Decision

If approved:

Your passport will be returned with the visa attached.
You must enter Canada before your visa’s expiry date.

Visa Sponsorship for a Canada Tourist Visa

Visa sponsorship involves a Canadian citizen or permanent resident supporting your visa application by offering financial backing and providing an invitation letter.

Who Can Sponsor a Visitor?

Canadian citizens
Canadian permanent residents

They can sponsor:

Parents and grandparents
Siblings
Close relatives
Friends (for tourism or personal visits)

Important: Sponsorship does not guarantee visa approval. The applicant must still meet eligibility requirements independently.

How to Prepare a Visa Sponsorship (Invitation) Letter

A strong invitation letter should include:

Host’s full name, contact details, and immigration status (passport or PR card copy)
Visitor’s full name, relationship to the host, and reason for the visit
Duration and details of stay (planned activities, address in Canada)
Statement of financial support, if applicable
Signature and date

The letter must be accompanied by the host’s supporting documents, such as:

Proof of residence (utility bill, rental agreement)
Financial documents (employment letter, bank statements)

The Canada Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents

In addition to the regular tourist visa, Canada offers a special Super Visa program.

Super Visa Highlights:

Allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada up to two years per visit without renewing status.
Valid for up to 10 years.

Super Visa Requirements:

Invitation letter from child or grandchild
Proof of minimum income by the sponsor
Proof of private medical insurance (at least $100,000 coverage for one year)
Medical exam
Clean criminal record

The Super Visa is ideal for extended family visits compared to the regular TRV.

Tips to Improve Your Tourist Visa Approval Chances

Here are actionable tips to strengthen your visa application:

1. Prove Strong Ties

Clearly demonstrate that you have reasons (career, family, property) to return to your home country.

2. Show Adequate Finances

Provide strong evidence of your financial situation to cover your trip independently.

3. Provide a Detailed Travel Plan

Outline your planned activities, accommodation, and length of stay in Canada.

4. Submit a Complete and Consistent Application

Double-check all information for accuracy and consistency across documents.

5. Provide a Strong Invitation Letter

If sponsored, ensure the invitation letter includes clear, detailed information to support your visit’s purpose.

Canada Tourist Visa Fees and Costs Overview

Service	Estimated Cost (CAD)
Tourist Visa Application Fee	$100
Biometrics Fee	$85
Medical Exam (if required)	$200–$400
Translation/Certified Copies (if needed)	Varies

Conclusion

Canada’s welcoming nature, incredible landscapes, and multicultural environment make it an ideal destination for travelers and immigrants alike.

Obtaining a Canada Tourist Visa involves careful preparation, meeting eligibility requirements, and, where applicable, securing strong visa sponsorship.

By following the steps outlined in this guide — from gathering the right documents to presenting a strong application — you can maximize your chances of approval and enjoy a memorable visit to Canada.

Whether visiting family, attending an event, or simply exploring this beautiful country, the right preparation ensures a smooth and successful journey.