Canada Visitor Visa Requirements & Application Guide
Last reviewed July 2026
Canada's visitor visa (also called a Temporary Resident Visa) is submitted entirely online through IRCC — no embassy visit needed for most applicants. This guide covers exactly what's required and walks through the online application process from start to finish.
6mo
Typical validity
100%
Online application
Eligibility summary
For tourism, family visits, or business trips as a visitor to Canada. The application is submitted entirely online — most applicants never need to visit anywhere in person.
Age-specific rules
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds (bank statements)
- Employment or education confirmation letter
- Travel itinerary
- Proof of accommodation
- Statement of purpose of travel
- Evidence of ties to home country
Passport photo requirements
- Taken within the last 6 months, against a plain white or light-coloured background
- Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open and clearly visible
- No glasses, headwear, or shadows across the face (religious headwear is usually an exception)
- Correct size — IRCC specifies exact dimensions and head-size proportions
- Digital upload must meet IRCC's file format and resolution requirements
Processing guidance
Processing time varies significantly by country of application — check IRCC's official tool for your current estimate. Biometrics are only required if IRCC specifically requests them.
Which visa centre handles your application?
Select your country of residence.
How to apply, step by step
- 1Check your eligibility and confirm you're applying for the right visitor visa category
- 2Create or sign in to your IRCC secure account on the official portal
- 3Build your GetTravixa checklist and upload your documents for AI review
- 4Complete IRCC's online questionnaire to generate your personalised document list
- 5Pay the application fee and submit through the IRCC portal
- 6Provide biometrics at a Visa Application Centre, only if IRCC specifically requests it
- 7Track your application status in your IRCC account and in GetTravixa
GetTravixa doesn't book your appointment or submit your application for you — you complete and submit everything yourself. GetTravixa is not an immigration authority, law firm, or consulate, and doesn't guarantee visa approval.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting proof of funds that doesn't cover a realistic trip budget
- Inconsistent answers between your online questionnaire and supporting documents
- Weak evidence of ties to home (employment, property, family, ongoing study)
- Missing or incomplete letters of invitation for family or business visits
- Assuming biometrics are required when IRCC hasn't actually requested them