Visiting Canada is on many travelers’ bucket lists. From Niagara Falls and the Rockies to multicultural cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, there’s so much to explore. But before you pack your bags, you’ll need to get a Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) if you’re traveling from India.
The process may sound confusing, but once you know the steps, it becomes much easier. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from eligibility, documents, and application steps to fees, timelines, and tips to improve your approval chances.
Types of Canadian Visitor Visas for Indians
- Single Entry Visa: This particular visa allows you to enter Canada once during your approved period. After leaving, you cannot return without applying again.
- Multiple Entry Visa: Most applicants receive this visa type. It lets you enter and exit Canada as many times as you like, valid for up to 10 years or until your passport expires.
- Super Visa (for Parents and Grandparents): This is a special long-term visitor visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay for up to 5 years at a time.
You can find the official definition of Canada visitor visas here: IRCC – Visit Canada
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply for a Canadian tourist visa if you meet the following criteria:
- If you are visiting Canada for a temporary period for tourism, visiting family, or short business, and not for work or immigration.
- If you can show strong ties to India and prove you will return after your trip through a stable job, family responsibilities, property, or ongoing studies.
- If you have sufficient funds to cover your flights, accommodation, and living expenses during your stay.
- If you are in good health and willing to undergo a medical exam if required by IRCC.
- If you have a clean criminal record and no past visa violations in Canada or other countries.
You can check the official eligibility requirements here: IRCC – Visitor visa eligibility
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa from India In 2025
Step 1: Create an Online Account
You will have to sign up on the IRCC Portal to start your application, where you can fill out forms, upload documents, and track your application from this account.
Step 2: Determine Your Visa Type
Decide whether you need a single entry, multiple entry, or a super visa (for parents and grandparents). Most Indian travelers apply for the standard multiple-entry visitor visa. Learn more here: IRCC – Visitor visas
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Prepare all necessary documents before your Visa Application Center appointment. These typically include:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for the entire stay in Canada with blank pages.
- Completed Visa Application Form (IMM 5257): Filled online through IRCC portal.
- Family Information Form (IMM 5645): Required for most applicants.
- Visa Fee Payment Receipt: Proof that you paid the application and biometrics fees.
- Passport-size Photos: 50×70 mm, white background, taken within last 6 months.
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements, salary slips, or fixed deposits to cover travel and stay.
- Travel Itinerary: Flight reservations, hotel bookings, or planned schedule of places to visit.
- Employment Proof: Job letter, salary slips, or business registration if self-employed.
- Ties to India: Evidence like property, family, or ongoing studies showing intent to return.
- Invitation Letter (if applicable): From a host in Canada, with their documents.
- Travel Insurance: Recommended for emergencies, not mandatory.
- Biometrics Appointment Letter: Needed for your Visa Application Centre visit.
Always check the Canadian Visa Document Checklist for the most up-to-date requirements.
Step 4: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the IMM 5257 form carefully online. Double-check names, dates, and details to ensure accuracy. Upload all supporting documents via your IRCC account.
Step 5: Pay The Visa Fees
Pay the visitor visa fee (CAD 100) and biometrics fee (CAD 85) online. Keep the receipts handy as you’ll need them for your application and biometrics appointment.
You can refer to this link to learn more about the visa fees: Canada Visa Fees
Step 6: Schedule and Submit Biometrics
After submitting your application, you’ll receive a biometrics instruction letter. Book an appointment at your nearest VFS Global Canada Visa Application Centre to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Step 7: Track Your Application
Use your IRCC account to track your visa status. You may receive requests for additional documents or clarifications. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
Step 8: Passport Submission and Visa Stamping
If approved, you will receive instructions to submit your passport to the Visa Application Centre for visa stamping. After processing, your passport with the visa will be returned to you.
Processing Time For Canada Visitor Visa from India
For Indian citizens, the Canada Visitor Visa (TRV) usually takes 2 to 6 weeks to process after submitting your application and completing biometrics. Processing times can vary depending on the visa office, season, and individual circumstances, and some applications may require additional verification, which can take longer.
To avoid last-minute stress, it is recommended to start your application 2 to 3 months before your planned travel. This allows enough time for scheduling appointments, document review, and visa processing, ensuring a smoother and worry-free trip.
Click here to check the current processing times for Canadian tourist visas: IRCC Processing Times
To successfully apply for a Canadian Tourist Visa, ensure you have the following documents prepared. This checklist aligns with the latest requirements for Indian applicants in 2025.
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for the entire duration of stay in Canada with at least two blank pages. |
| Visa Application Form (IMM 5257) | Filled online via the IRCC portal and double-check all details before submission. |
| Family Information Form (IMM 5645) | Required for most applicants; includes personal and family details. |
| Visa Fee Payment Receipt | Proof of payment for application and biometrics fees. |
| Passport-size Photos | One or two 50 mm × 70 mm, plain white background, taken within the last 6 months. |
| Proof of Funds | Bank statements, salary slips, or fixed deposits showing enough money for travel and stay. |
| Travel Itinerary / Plans | Flight reservations, hotel bookings, or a planned schedule of places to visit. |
| Employment Proof | Job letter, salary slips, or business registration documents if self-employed. |
| Ties to India | Documents proving intent to return, such as property, family, or ongoing studies. |
| Invitation Letter (if applicable) | From a Canadian host, you need to include the host’s passport or PR details and proof of relationship. |
| Travel Insurance | Recommended for medical coverage and emergencies, though not mandatory. |
| Biometrics Appointment Letter | Required for your Visa Application Centre appointment. |
Key Tips to Improve Your Visa Chances
- Show strong ties to India: job, property, family.
- Maintain good financial proof: stable income, savings.
- Be honest in your application and interview.
- Avoid fake bookings and provide real plans or cancellable tickets.
- Apply at least 3 months before travel to avoid delays.
Also, if you need more details about how to apply for a U.S. Visitor Visa from India in 2025, check out this article for a complete step-by-step guide to make your U.S. trip hassle-free.
Conclusion
Applying for a Canada tourist visa from India in 2025 is easier if you plan step by step. Fill out the right forms, gather complete documents, pay your fees, attend biometrics, and track your application carefully. Remember to show proof of funds and strong ties to India.
With preparation and confidence, your dream trip to Canada can soon become a reality. Start by visiting the official IRCC Portal and begin your application today.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to get a Canadian tourist visa?
Processing usually takes 2 to 6 weeks after submitting your application and biometrics.
2. How much is the Canada visitor visa fee for Indian citizens?
The visa fee is CAD 100 and the biometrics fee is CAD 85, totaling approximately CAD 185.
3. Can I work or study in Canada on a tourist visa?
No. A Canada tourist visa is for temporary visits only and does not allow work or study.
4. How many times can I enter Canada with a visitor visa?
Most Indian travelers receive a multiple-entry visa, valid for up to 10 years or until your passport expires, allowing repeated entries.
5. Do I need travel insurance for a Canada tourist visa?
Travel insurance is recommended for emergencies and medical coverage but is not mandatory for visa approval.
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