Obtaining a 10-year tourist visa for Canada may seem a big task but it is not. The tourist visa also known as a multiple-entry Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) allows visitor to come and stay up to 6 months in one year valid for 10 years from or till the passport expiry date.
If you’re thinking of getting a 10-year tourist visa for Canada, you might be eligible for that. This article will discuss the complete process for obtaining a Canada tourist Visa.
1. Understanding the Multiple-Entry Visa
Most TRVs are the type of multiple-entry visa that allows you to enter and leave Canada anytime between the 6 months of the year for over a 10-year period. This is ideal for frequent travelers and those with family or business ties in Canada.
2. Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the following requirements:
- Valid Passport: You need to have a valid passport that must be valid at the time of stamping.
- Good Health: You must go through a medical exam to make sure that you’re fit.
- No Criminal Record: You must have a clean criminal record.
- Ties to Home Country: This one is important, you must be able to demonstrate strong ties to your home country (job, family, property) to prove that you will return back to your home country.
- Sufficient Funds: Show you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay.
3. Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents:
- Valid Passport
- Proof of Ties to Home Country: Employment letter, property documents, family ties.
- Financial Documents: Bank statements, proof of income, employment letter.
- Travel Itinerary: Detailed plans for your stay in Canada.
- Letter of Invitation (if applicable)
- Previous Travel History: Evidence of past travel (if available).
4. Complete the Application Form
Once you have all your documents ready, you need to fill out the application form IMM 5257E. This will ensure that all the information is accurate and complete.
5. Pay the Application Fee
Once you have all your documents ready, you can then finally pay the fees which will be CAD $100. You may also be required to pay $100 biometric fees.
The fee for a multiple-entry visa is CAD $100. Additionally, there is a biometric fee of CAD $85 if required.
6. Submit Your Application
You can submit your application:
- Online: Faster and allows you to track your application.
- Visa Application Centre (VAC): If you prefer, you can apply through a VAC.
7. Provide Biometrics
If required, you will need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo). You will receive instructions on where and how to provide them.
8. Attend an Interview (if required)
In some cases, you might be asked to attend an interview with a visa officer. The chances of this happening are very unlikely, but if you do then you must be prepared for that.
9. Wait for Processing
Visa processing times vary depending on your country of residence. Check current processing times on the IRCC website.
10. Receive Your Visa
After your application is approved, your passport will be returned to the visa service center and when all the details are verified you will receive your visa stamped.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Honesty: Provide complete and accurate information.
- Strong Ties to Home Country: Emphasize your ties to ensure the visa officer of your intention to return.
- Financial Stability: Show clear evidence of your ability to support yourself during your stay.
- Clear Itinerary: Provide a detailed and realistic travel plan.
FAQs
1. What is a multiple-entry visa?
A multiple-entry visa allows you to enter Canada multiple times for stays of up to six months at a time over a 10-year period, or until the expiry of your passport, whichever comes first.
2. How long can I stay in Canada on a multiple-entry visa?
You can stay for up to six months per visit. After six months, you must leave Canada but can return again.
3. Do I need to provide biometrics for my visa application?
Most applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 need to provide biometrics. You will be notified if you need to do so.
4. Can I extend my stay in Canada?
Yes, you can apply to extend your stay as a visitor. You should apply at least 30 days before your current status expires.
5. How long does it take to process a multiple-entry visa?
Processing times vary by country. Check the IRCC website for current processing times.
6. What if my visa application is refused?
If your visa is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. You can address the issues and reapply if you wish.
7. Can I work or study in Canada with a multiple-entry visa?
No, a multiple-entry tourist visa does not allow you to work or study in Canada. You would need to apply for a work permit or study permit.
8. Do I need a letter of invitation for a tourist visa?
A letter of invitation is not mandatory but can be helpful if you have a host in Canada. It should outline your relationship, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay.
9. What should I do if my passport expires during the 10-year visa validity?
If your passport expires, you will need to apply for a new visa with your new passport. The validity of the visa is tied to the validity of your passport.
10. Can I travel to the United States from Canada with a Canadian tourist visa?
No, a Canadian tourist visa does not allow you to enter the United States. You will need a separate visa for the U.S.
