Canada Visa For Indians - Everything You Need To Know

So, what is a Canada Visa, anyway?

A Canada Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), is an official document that the Canadian government issues to non-Canadian citizens who want to:

1. Visit Canada for a short period (e.g., tourism, seeing family/friends, or business trips)
2. Study in Canada (for international students)
3. Work in Canada (for foreign workers with a job offer)

1. Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa or Travel Visa)

Purpose:

• Tourism: Explore Canada's attractions, landscapes, and culture.
• Family Visits: Visit family members or friends residing in Canada.
• Business Meetings: Attend conferences, meetings, or explore business opportunities (Note: Not for hands-on work).

Key Requirements for Indians:

• Valid Indian Passport with at least 6 months' validity from the planned exit date from Canada.
• Completed Application Form (IMM 5257) with accurate information.
• Recent Photos meeting the specified requirements.
• Proof of Funds: Show sufficient money for your stay (approximately CAD 2,500 for a 6-month stay, but this can vary).
• Travel Itinerary: Flight tickets or a detailed travel plan.
• Hotel Booking/Accommodation Proof: Or an invitation letter from the host in Canada.
• Health Insurance: Recommended, but not always mandatory.
• Police Certificate: May be required in some cases.

Processing Time:

Typically 1-4 weeks, but can vary. It's advisable to apply well in advance.

Validity and Stay:

• Typical Validity: Up to 6 months from the date of entry.
• Maximum Stay: Determined by the border services officer upon arrival. Usually up to 6 months.

Fees:

• Application Fee: CAD 100 (subject to change).
• Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 (if required, and subject to change).

2. Study Visa

Purpose:

For pursuing educational programs in Canada.

Eligible Programs:

• Primary, secondary, post-secondary, or post-graduate studies.
• Vocational or professional training.
• ESL or FSL courses (if they are a prerequisite for another study program).

Key Requirements for Indians:

• Acceptance Letter: From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
• Valid Indian Passport with more than 6 months' validity from the intended study period's end.
• Completed Study Permit Application (IMM 1294).
• Recent Photos.
• Proof of Funds: Approximately CAD 10,000 + tuition fees for the first year.
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): For living expenses, if applying for a study permit from within Canada.
• Language Proficiency Test Results: IELTS, TOEFL, or French proficiency tests (if required by the institution).
• Medical Certificate: If studying in a field involving direct contact with patients.

Processing Time:

Can vary significantly (often 3-6 months or more). Apply as early as possible.

Validity and Stay:

• Typical Validity: Matches the study program's duration, plus 3 extra months.
• Maximum Stay: Determined by the study program's length and 3 months thereafter.

Fees:

• Application Fee: CAD 150 (subject to change).
• Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 (if required, and subject to change).

3. Work Visa

Purpose:

For working in Canada, contributing to the country's economy.

Types of Work Visas:

• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
• International Mobility Program (IMP): LMIA-exempt, for specific types of workers.

Key Requirements for Indians:

• Job Offer from a Canadian Employer.
• Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): If applicable (for TFWP).
• Valid Indian Passport with more than 6 months' validity from the intended work period's end.
• Completed Work Permit Application (IMM 1295).
• Recent Photos.
• Proof of Qualifications: Relevant education and work experience documents.
• Police Certificate: May be required.

Processing Time:

Varies significantly (often 3-6 months or more). Apply as early as possible.

Validity and Stay:

• Typical Validity: Matches the job offer's duration, up to 4 years (in some cases, extendable).
• Maximum Stay: Determined by the work permit's duration.

Fees:

• Application Fee: CAD 155 (subject to change) for most work permits.
• Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 (if required, and subject to change).
• LMIA Fee (if applicable): CAD 1,000 (subject to change), paid by the employer.

4. Immigrant Visa (Permanent Residence)

Purpose:

For individuals and families wishing to reside in Canada permanently.

Main Programs for Indians:

• Express Entry: For skilled workers, through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class.
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): For workers with skills in demand by specific provinces.
• Family Sponsorship: For family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program: For those intending to live in Quebec.

Key Requirements (Varies by Program):

• Language Proficiency: IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF or TCF for French.
• Education Credential Assessment (ECA): For Express Entry and some PNPs.
• Proof of Work Experience: Relevant to the applied program.
• Proof of Funds: For Express Entry and some PNPs (approximately CAD 12,960 for a single applicant, plus additional amounts for each family member).
• Police Certificates: From India and any country where you've lived for 6 months or more since the age of 18.
• Medical Exam: Through an IRCC-approved panel physician.

Processing Time:

Highly variable, often taking 6-24 months or more, depending on the program.

Validity and Stay:

• Permanent Residence: Upon approval, you'll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if you’re outside Canada).
• Stay: As a permanent resident, you must live in Canada for at least 2 years in a 5-year period.

Fees:

• Application Fee: Varies by program (e.g., CAD 825 for Express Entry principal applicants, subject to change).
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD 515 (subject to change), usually paid after your application is approved.
• Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 (if required, and subject to change).

1. Determine Your Eligibility

Tool: Utilize the official Government of Canada's Immigration and Citizenship Website for:

• Visa Finder Tool: Identify if you need a visa and which type.
• Eligibility Criteria: Review the detailed requirements for your chosen visa type.

Recommendation:

• Ensure you understand all eligibility criteria before proceeding.
• Consider consulting the IRCC website's FAQs or seeking advice from authorized immigration representatives if unsure.

2. Gather Documents

Mandatory Documents (Varies by Visa Type):

1. Passport:
   • Validity: At least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Canada.
   • Pages: Ensure you have at least two blank pages.
2. Filled Application Form:
   • Source: Download from the IRCC website.
   • Accuracy: Double-check all information for accuracy.
3. Recent Photos:
   • Specifications: Follow the IRCC's photo requirements.
4. Proof of Funds:
   • Amount: Varies by visa type (e.g., approximately CAD 2,500 for a tourist visa).
   • Acceptable Documents: Bank statements, proof of income, etc.
5. Additional Documents (as Applicable):
   • Health Insurance: For some visa types, especially if you'll be studying or working.
   • Police Certificates: Depending on your background and the visa type.
   • Language Test Results (English/French): For immigration, work, or study visas.
   • Educational Documents: Transcripts, degrees, diplomas (crucial for study and work visas).
   • Marriage Certificate: For family sponsorship or if traveling with a spouse.
   • Birth Certificate: For dependent children.

3. Submit Your Application

Online Application (Preferred Method):

1. Create an Account: On the IRCC website.
2. Upload Documents: Ensure all files are in the accepted formats.
3. Submit and Pay: Fees are paid online during this step.

Paper Application (Through a Canadian Visa Application Centre - VAC - in India):

1. Find Your Nearest VAC: Using the IRCC website's tool.
2. Submit in Person or by Courier: Follow the VAC's specific instructions.

4. Pay the Fees

Types of Fees:

1. Application Fee: Varies by visa type; check the IRCC website for the latest.
2. Biometrics Fee: If required for your visa type (currently CAD 85, subject to change).
3. VAC Service Fees (if Applicable): For paper applications submitted through a VAC.

5. Give Your Biometrics (if Required)

After Submitting Your Application:

1. Receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter: If biometrics are required.
2. Visit a VAC: Book an appointment to provide your biometric data (fingerprints and a photo).

6. Wait for Processing

Track Your Application Status:

1. Online: Through your IRCC account (for online applications).
2. VAC Website or Contact: For paper applications submitted through a VAC.

Respond to Additional Information Requests:

Promptness is Key: To avoid delays in processing.

7. Interview (Rarely Required)

Notification:

• You'll be informed if an interview is necessary, usually at a Canadian embassy or consulate.

Preparation:

• Review your application and supporting documents.
• Prepare to discuss your application and intentions in Canada.

8. Receive Your Visa

Method of Receipt:

• As chosen during the application process (e.g., pickup at a VAC, mail).

Verification:

• Accuracy: Ensure all visa details (name, dates, visa type, etc.) are correct.
• Validity: Understand the visa's validity period and any travel restrictions.

General Requirements

• Number of Photos: 2 identical photos
• Size and Format:
• Physical Photos: 35mm x 45mm
• Digital Photos (for online applications): JPEG format, 420 x 540 pixels, and a file size between 60 KB and 240 KB
• Recency: Photos should not be older than 6 months
• Background: Plain white or light-colored background
• Facial Recognition: The face should be centered, clearly visible, and not obscured
• Specific Requirements

Head Position:

• Straight: Face the camera directly
• Centered: The head should be in the center of the photo

Eyes and Eyebrows:

• Open and Visible: Eyes should be open, visible, and not obscured by hair or eyebrows
• Glasses: Permitted if they don't obstruct the view of your eyes

Mouth and Expression:

• Closed Mouth: No smiling or showing teeth
• Neutral Expression: No frowning or showing emotions

Hair:

• Not Obscuring the Face: Hair should not cover your face or eyebrows

Head Coverings:

• Permitted for Religious Reasons: Must not obscure the face

Lighting and Contrast:

• Even Lighting: No shadows on the face
• Clear Contrast: Between the face and the background

Digital Photo Requirements (for Online Applications)

• Resolution: 420 x 540 pixels (minimum)
• Aspect Ratio: 4:5
• File Format: JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)
• File Size: Between 60 KB and 240 KB
• Color Mode: 24-bit color, sRGB color space

Where to Get Canada Visa Photos

• Professional Photo Studios: Recommended to ensure compliance with IRCC requirements
• Pharmacies with Photo Services: Many pharmacies offer passport photo services
• Self-Service Kiosks: Some locations have self-service kiosks for passport photos

Tips for Taking Your Own Canada Visa Photos

• Use a White Background: Ensure it's plain and not textured
• Natural Light: Preferably near a window with soft, indirect light
• Camera Settings: Use a high-quality camera with the right settings (resolution, aspect ratio, etc.)
• Check the IRCC Website: For the most current requirements and guidelines

Remember: If your photos do not meet the requirements, your application may be delayed or rejected. It's always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional help if unsure.

1. Passport

Validity Requirement:

• Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Canada.

Additional Checks:

• Blank Pages: Ensure you have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
• Damaged Passports: If your passport is damaged, consider renewing it before applying.
• Expired or Soon-to-Expire Passports: Renew your passport if it's due to expire soon or has expired.

Documentation to Provide:

• A clear, legible photocopy of the passport's biodata page (the page with your name, date of birth, etc.).

2. Filled Application Form

Source:

• Download the application form from the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

Form Types:

• IMM 5257: For Visitor Visas (Tourist, Business, etc.)
• IMM 1294: For Study Permits
• IMM 1295: For Work Permits
• IMM 0008: For Permanent Residence (with various supplements)

Filling Out the Form:

• Accuracy: Double-check all information for accuracy.
• Completeness: Ensure all required sections are filled out.
• Signatures: Sign the form as required.

Submission:

• Online Applications: Upload the filled form as part of your online application.
• Paper Applications: Submit the form in person or by courier to a Canadian Visa Application Centre (VAC).

3. Recent Photos

IRCC Specifications:

• Check the IRCC website for the most current photo requirements.

Key Requirements:

• Number of Photos: Usually 2 photos per application.
• Size and Format: Typically 35mm x 45mm, with a white background.
• Recency: Photos should not be older than 6 months.
• Facial Recognition: The face should be centered, clearly visible, and not obscured.

Submission:

• Online: Upload digital copies meeting the specifications.
• Paper Applications: Attach physical photos to the application form as instructed.

4. Proof of Funds

Purpose:

• To demonstrate you can support yourself financially in Canada.

Required Amounts:

• Visitor Visa: Approximately CAD 2,500 for a 6-month stay (but can vary).
• Study Permit: Varies by institution and location, but typically around CAD 10,000 to CAD 12,000 per year, plus tuition.
• Work Permit: Depends on the employer's offer and location.

Acceptable Documents:

• Bank Statements: Showing sufficient funds over the past 3-4 months.
• Proof of Income: Employment letters, pay stubs, etc.
• Scholarship or Award Letters: For students.
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): For international students.

5. Health Insurance

Applicability:

• Required for:
  • International Students
  • Some types of Work Permits
  • Certain Immigration Programs
• Recommended for:
  • All Visitors to ensure coverage for unexpected medical expenses

Requirements:

• Coverage Period: Must cover you for at least 1 year, with the option to renew.
• Minimum Coverage:

• • Hospitalization
  • Physician services
  • Laboratory tests and X-rays

• Provider:

• • Must be a Canadian insurance company or a company that offers a Canadian insurance policy.

6. Police Certificates

Applicability:

Required for:

• Immigration applications (permanent residence)
• Some work or study permits (depending on the duration of stay or type of work/study)

Dependent on:

• Your age (usually required for individuals 18 years or older)
• The countries you’ve lived in (for 6 months or more since the age of 18)

How to Obtain:

• In India: From the Regional Passport Office or the Office of the Commissioner of Police (as per local procedures).
• From Other Countries: Follow the local authorities' procedures for obtaining a police certificate.

7. Language Test Results (English/French)

Applicability:

• Required for:
  • Most Immigration (Permanent Residence) applications
  • Some Work Permits (depending on the job offer)
  • Study Permits (for programs taught in English or French)

Accepted Tests:

• English:

• • IELTS (General Training or Academic, depending on the program)
  • CELPIP (General or General-LS, depending on the program)

• French:

• • TEF (Test d’évaluation de français)
  • TCF (Test de connaissance du français)

• Minimum Scores:

• • Vary by program or visa type; check the IRCC website for specific requirements.

8. Educational Documents

Applicability:

• Required for:
  • Study Permit applications
  • Work Permit applications (for certain professions)
  • Immigration applications (for points or to meet program requirements)

Documents to Provide:

• Transcripts
• Degrees
• Diplomas
• Certificates of Qualification (for trades or professions)
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Report: For immigration applications, to verify the Canadian equivalency of your foreign education.

9. Marriage Certificate (if applicable)

Applicability:

• Required for:
  • Family Sponsorship applications
  • If traveling with a spouse (for some visa types)

Document Requirements:

• Original or Certified True Copy: Of the marriage certificate.
• Translation: If the certificate is not in English or French, a certified translation is required.

10. Birth Certificate (if applicable)

Applicability:

• Required for:
  • Dependent children (for most visa types)
  • Family Sponsorship applications

Document Requirements:

• Original or Certified True Copy: Of the birth certificate.
• Translation: If the certificate is not in English or French, a certified translation is required.

Understanding Processing Times

Processing Time:

The time it takes for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to process a visa application.

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

• Type of Visa: Different visas have varying processing times.
• Application Completeness: Incomplete applications can lead to delays.
• Peak Application Periods: More applications during peak seasons can slow down processing.
• Background Checks: Required for some applicants, which can add to the processing time.

Canada Visa Processing Times (Estimated)

Please note: These are general estimates and can vary based on the factors mentioned above.

Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

• Online Applications: 14-30 days (average), up to 60 days (maximum)
• Paper Applications: 30-60 days (average), up to 120 days (maximum)

Study Permit

• Online Applications: 13-27 days (average), up to 60 days (maximum)
• Paper Applications: 30-60 days (average), up to 120 days (maximum)
• SDS (Student Direct Stream) Applications: Faster processing, typically within 20 days

Work Permit

• Online Applications: 20-40 days (average), up to 60 days (maximum)
• Paper Applications: 40-80 days (average), up to 120 days (maximum)
• International Mobility Program (IMP): Varies, but often faster than the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

Permanent Residence (PR) through Express Entry

• Federal Skilled Worker (FSW): 6-12 months (average)
• Federal Skilled Trades (FST): 6-12 months (average)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 3-6 months (average)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): 6-12 months (average), but can vary significantly by province

Family Sponsorship

• Spousal Sponsorship: 12-24 months (average)
• Parent/Grandparent Sponsorship: 20-30 months (average), but can vary
• Dependent Children: Processing time varies, often aligned with the primary applicant’s processing time

Other Visa Types

• Refugee Claims: Highly variable, often taking several months to several years
• Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Applications: 12-24 months (average)

Checking Your Application Status

• Online: Through your IRCC account (for online applications)
• VAC Website or Contact: For paper applications submitted through a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
• IRCC Client Support Centre: By phone or email, for general inquiries

Tips to Minimize Processing Time

• Submit a Complete Application: Ensure all required documents are included.
• Apply Online: Generally faster than paper applications.
• Check for Any Additional Requirements: Some applications may require extra documentation.
• Consider Consulting with an Immigration Lawyer: For complex cases or to ensure everything is in order.

Canada Visa Fees Overview

Breakdown of Additional Fees

Biometrics Fee:

• Per person: CAD 85
• Family (2 or more): CAD 170

VAC (Visa Application Centre) Service Fees:

• Vary by VAC but approximately CAD 200-300 per application

Medical Examination Fees:

• Approximately CAD 100-200 per person, depending on the medical clinic and services required

Language Test Fees:

• IELTS: Approximately CAD 250-300
• CELPIP: Approximately CAD 280
• TEF/TCF for French: Approximately CAD 200-300

Police Certificates:

• Fees vary by country and issuing authority but approximately CAD 100-200 per certificate

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA):

• CAD 1,000, typically paid by the employer for work permit applications

Payment Methods

• Online Applications: Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) or debit cards.
• Paper Applications through VACs: Vary by VAC but often include credit cards, debit cards, or bank drafts.

Refund Policies

• Application Fees: Generally non-refundable, even if the application is withdrawn or refused.
• Biometrics Fees: May be refundable in some cases, but this is rare.
• Other Fees (VAC, Medical, etc.): Refund policies vary; check with the service provider.

Important Notes

• Fees are Subject to Change: Always check the official Government of Canada's website for the most current fees.
• Additional Fees May Apply: Depending on your specific situation or the requirements of your application.
• Consult the Official Government Website or a Trusted Source: For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Canada visa fees.

Methods to Track Your Canada Visa Application

Online Tracking (for Online Applications)

• IRCC Website: Use your account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
• Application Status Tool: Enter your Application ID (found on your receipt) to check the status.

Web Form (for Both Online and Paper Applications)

• IRCC's Web Form: Submit a query on the IRCC website to ask about your application status.
• Response Time: Typically within 2-5 business days.

Canadian Visa Application Centre (VAC) (for Paper Applications)

• VAC Website: Check the status on the website of the VAC where you submitted your application.
• Contact VAC Directly: Phone, email, or in-person, depending on the VAC's policies.

Biometrics Status Check (if Applicable)

• IRCC Website: Use the "Check your biometrics status" tool if you've submitted biometrics as part of your application.

Understanding Application Status Updates

• Received: Your application has been successfully submitted and is in the processing queue.
• In Progress: Your application is being reviewed. This is the longest stage and can take several weeks to months.
• Additional Documents Required: You need to provide more information or documents. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
• Interview Scheduled: You are required to attend an interview at a Canadian embassy, consulate, or VAC.
• Medical Results Received/Pending: The status of your medical exam results.
• Decision Made: A decision has been made on your application. This could be an approval, refusal, or request for more info.
• Approved: Your visa application has been approved. You'll receive instructions on the next steps.
• Refused: Your application has been denied. You may receive reasons for the refusal and information on how to reapply.

Tips for Tracking Your Application

Regular Checks: Monitor your application status regularly, especially if you've submitted additional documents.

Ensure Email Notifications: If applying online, ensure your email address is correct to receive updates from IRCC.

Contact IRCC/VAC Only When Necessary: To avoid delays, only contact IRCC or the VAC if:

• • You haven't received a decision after the estimated processing time.
  • You've been asked to provide more documents and have done so.
  • There's a significant change in your application (e.g., change of address).

Estimated Processing Times

• Visitor Visa (TRV): Typically 1-4 weeks, but can vary.
• Study Permit: Usually 3-6 months or more.
• Work Permit: Varies significantly, often 3-6 months or more.
• Permanent Residence: Highly variable, often taking 6-24 months or more, depending on the program.

Resources

• IRCC Website: www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html
• Canadian Visa Application Centres (VACs): Find your nearest VAC on the IRCC website.
• IRCC Client Support Centre: For general inquiries and to submit web forms.

There are a variety of reasons why Canada visa applications are rejected. Canada visa applications are commonly rejected for the following reasons:

• Lack of intention to leave Canada: The visa officer wants to ensure that you will be returning home after your Canada visit. You may be rejected for a visa if you do not have strong ties to your home country, such as a job, family, or property.
• Financial reasons: During your stay in Canada, you must prove that you have enough money to support yourself. In addition to meeting your travel costs, you will also need money to cover your tuition fees (if you intend to apply for a student visa) and living expenses.
• Incomplete or inaccurate application: Make sure you fill out your application form completely and accurately. Don't forget to include all required documentation and make sure there aren't any errors.
• Medical inadmissibility: Your visa application may be rejected if you have medical conditions that risk public health.
• Criminal inadmissibility: Criminal records may prevent you from entering Canada.

In case your visa application is denied and you want to know if it will affect your future visa applications, check here: Visa Refusal Affect Future Visa Applications.