How to apply for a Canadian tourist visa to visit relatives?

To apply for a Canadian tourist visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV) to visit your relatives, follow these steps and prepare the necessary documents:

Application Process:

1. Determine Eligibility:

o Ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements, such as having a valid passport, being in good health, having no criminal or immigration-related convictions, and demonstrating strong ties to your home country.

2. Gather Required Documents:

o Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Canada.

o Visa Application Form (IMM 5257): Complete the application form for a visitor visa.

o Photographs: Two passport-sized photos that meet the requirements specified by IRCC.

o Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, pay slips, or other financial documents that show you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Canada.

o Travel Itinerary: Details of your travel plans, including flight reservations and accommodation bookings.

o Letter of Invitation: A letter from your relatives in Canada, including:

 Their full name and address.

 Your relationship with them.

 The purpose and duration of your visit.

 Details of where you will stay and how you will be supported.

 A copy of their Canadian passport or permanent resident card.

o Proof of Ties to Home Country: Documents that show your strong ties to your home country, such as employment letters, property ownership, or family ties.

o Travel History: Copies of visas and entry/exit stamps for previous travel to other countries.

o Cover Letter: A cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit, your itinerary, and how you plan to fund your trip.

3. Submit Your Application:

o Online Application:

 Create an account on the IRCC website.

 Complete and submit the application form online.

 Upload all the required documents.

 Pay the visa application fee online.

o Paper Application:

 Download and complete the visa application package from the IRCC website.

 Include all required documents.

 Pay the visa fee through the specified method.

 Submit your application to the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).

4. Biometrics Appointment:

o If required, schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

5. Wait for Processing:

o Processing times can vary depending on your country of residence. Check the current processing times on the IRCC website.

6. Track Your Application:

o Track the status of your application online through the IRCC account or by contacting the visa office where you submitted your application.

7. Receive Decision:

o Once a decision is made, you will be notified. If your visa is approved, you will be asked to send your passport to the VAC for visa stamping.

Helpful Resources:

• Government of Canada - Visit Canada

• IRCC Application Processing Times

• IRCC Account Sign-Up

By following these steps and ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate, you can enhance your chances of obtaining a visitor visa to Canada to visit your relatives.