Indian citizens need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit Canada.

• Government / consular fee Set by the embassy or consulate. It varies by visa type, number of entries and your nationality.
• Visa centre service fee Charged by the application centre (such as VFS Global) on top of the government fee.
• Courier, SMS & biometrics Optional extras such as passport return by courier are billed separately.

We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none. Check the current amount on the official source.

• Valid passportMust be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• Completed application formsIncludes IMM 5257 (Temporary Resident Visa application) and IMM 5707 (Family Information), and IMM 5257 – Schedule 1 if applicable.
• Proof of financial supportBank statements, pay stubs, or a letter from an employer demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay and return.
• Purpose of travelDetailed travel itinerary, hotel bookings, and/or a letter of invitation from a host in Canada.
• Proof of ties to home countryEvidence such as employment letter, property ownership, family responsibilities, or other documents demonstrating your intent to return to India.
• Digital photoMeeting IRCC specifications for passport-style photos.
• Travel historyCopies of previous visas and entry/exit stamps from other countries.
• Letter of explanationA letter explaining the purpose of your visit and confirming your intent to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.

1. 1
   Gather all required forms and supporting documents as specified by IRCC.
2. 2
   Create an account on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

   IRCC Secure Account
3. 3
   Complete the online application form, upload all necessary documents, and pay the visa application fee and biometrics fee online.
4. 4
   After submitting your application, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL).
5. 5
   Schedule and attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India to provide your fingerprints and photo (biometrics).

   Find a VAC
6. 6
   If your application is approved, you will receive a Passport Request Letter. Submit your passport to the VAC for visa stamping.
7. 7
   Collect your passport with the visa stamp from the VAC.

• Insufficient funds

  How to avoid: Provide clear and verifiable proof of sufficient funds to cover your entire stay in Canada and your return journey. Include bank statements, pay stubs, and any other relevant financial documents.

• Unclear purpose of visit

  How to avoid: Submit a detailed and consistent travel itinerary, including confirmed bookings (flights, accommodation) and a clear explanation of your activities in Canada. If visiting family/friends, include a letter of invitation.

• Weak ties to home country

  How to avoid: Provide strong evidence of your ties to India, such as employment letters, property ownership documents, family responsibilities, or other commitments that demonstrate your intent to return after your visit.

• Incomplete or inconsistent documents

  How to avoid: Carefully review the document checklist and ensure all required forms are fully completed, signed, and all supporting documents are provided. Ensure consistency across all submitted information.

• Misrepresentation

  How to avoid: Always provide truthful and accurate information on your application. Any false statements or withheld material facts can lead to a refusal and a ban from applying for a Canadian visa for several years.

• Be honest and thorough in your application. Any misrepresentation can lead to refusal and future bans.
• Carry copies of all your application documents, passport, visa, and itinerary when you travel.
• Be prepared to answer questions from Canada Border Services Officers upon arrival regarding your purpose of visit, duration of stay, and ability to support yourself.
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Canada.

• Can I extend my stay in Canada as a visitor?

  Yes, you may apply to extend your stay as a visitor before your current authorized stay expires. You must apply online and meet specific eligibility criteria.

• Do I need a transit visa if I'm just passing through Canada?

  Indian citizens generally require a transit visa if their flight stops in Canada, even if they do not leave the airport. There are specific exemptions, so it is crucial to check the official IRCC website for the latest requirements based on your specific travel route and nationality.

• Can I work in Canada with a visitor visa?

  No, a Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor Visa) does not authorize you to work in Canada. To work, you would need a separate work permit.

• What is the typical processing time for a visitor visa from India?

  Processing times vary significantly based on the volume of applications and the specific office. It is essential to check the official IRCC website for current processing times for applications from India.

• What happens if my visa application is refused?

  If your visa application is refused, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You may address these issues and reapply, or seek legal advice if you believe the decision was made in error.

• My passport expires in 5 months - can I still apply for Canada?

  It is strongly recommended that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Canada. While Canada does not have a strict 6-month rule, some airlines may deny boarding if your passport has less than six months validity. You should consider renewing your passport before applying for your Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to avoid potential issues.

• How much bank balance do I need to show for a Canada tourist visa?

  There is no fixed minimum bank balance required, but you must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Canada and for your return journey. The amount needed will depend on the length of your visit and your planned activities. You should provide bank statements, pay stubs, or other proof of income to show your financial stability.

• I want to travel to Canada next month, is that enough time to apply for a visa?

  Applying for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) with only one month before your intended travel date is generally considered short notice. Processing times for Indian citizens can vary significantly and may exceed one month. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned trip to avoid disappointment.

• I am self-employed, what documents do I need to show for my Canada visa application?

  As a self-employed applicant, you will need to provide documents that demonstrate the stability and legitimacy of your business and your financial ties to India. This typically includes business registration documents, income tax returns, bank statements for your business and personal accounts, and any professional licenses. These documents help prove your intention to return to India after your visit.

• I am travelling to Canada with my child, do they need their own visa?

  Yes, every individual, including children, must have their own Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada. Your child will need their own passport and a separate visa application must be submitted on their behalf. Additional documents like birth certificates and consent letters from non-accompanying parents may also be required.

• How much does a Canada visa cost for Indian citizens?

  There are usually two or three separate charges, and people often confuse them. Government / consular fee: Set by the embassy or consulate. It varies by visa type, number of entries and your nationality. Visa centre service fee: Charged by the application centre (such as VFS Global) on top of the government fee. Courier, SMS & biometrics: Optional extras such as passport return by courier are billed separately. Fees change regularly, so confirm the current amount on the official source linked on this page before you apply.