Process for Obtaining a Canadian Tourist Visa from Mumbai

Obtaining a tourist visa for Canada from Mumbai, India, involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide on the process:

1. Determine Eligibility

Ensure you meet the requirements for a Canadian tourist visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV). You must:

• Have a valid passport.

• Be in good health.

• Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions.

• Convince an immigration officer that you have ties to your home country, such as a job, home, financial assets, or family.

• Convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit.

• Have enough money for your stay.

2. Gather Required Documents

Collect the necessary documents for your application, including:

• Valid Passport: Ensure it is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

• Visa Application Form (IMM 5257): Complete the form online.

• Family Information Form (IMM 5645): Complete this form as well.

• Proof of Funds: Bank statements, pay slips, employment letters, or financial support from a family member.

• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos meeting the specifications.

• Proof of Ties to Home Country: Employment letters, property documents, or other evidence showing you have strong ties to India.

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

• Purpose of Visit: Invitation letter from friends or family in Canada, or a detailed itinerary of your tourism plans.

3. Apply Online or on Paper

You can apply online through the IRCC website or on paper by submitting your application to the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).

Online Application:

1. Create an Account: Create an account on the IRCC website.

2. Complete Application Forms: Fill out the required forms online.

3. Upload Documents: Scan and upload all the required documents.

4. Pay the Fees: Pay the visa application fee and biometric fee online using a credit or debit card.

5. Submit Application: Submit your application online.

Paper Application:

1. Download Forms: Download and print the application forms from the IRCC website.

2. Complete Forms: Fill out the forms manually.

3. Gather Documents: Collect all the required documents.

4. Pay the Fees: Pay the visa application fee and biometric fee at a designated bank and get a receipt.

5. Submit Application: Submit your completed application forms, supporting documents, and proof of payment to the nearest VAC. In Mumbai, the VAC is operated by VFS Global.

4. Provide Biometrics

After submitting your application, you will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter. You need to:

• Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a VAC to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph).

• Attend Appointment: Go to the VAC on the scheduled date and provide your biometrics.

5. Wait for Processing

• Processing Time: Processing times vary, so check the IRCC website for current processing times.

• Track Application: If you applied online, you can track your application through your IRCC account. If you applied on paper, you can track it through the VAC tracking system.

6. Decision and Passport Submission

• Decision Notification: You will be notified of the decision via email or through your IRCC account.

• Passport Request: If your visa is approved, you will receive a request to submit your passport.

• Submit Passport: Submit your passport to the VAC along with the passport request letter.

• Visa Stamping: The VAC will affix the visa sticker to your passport and return it to you.

7. Collect Passport

• Collect from VAC: Collect your passport from the VAC once you are notified that it is ready.

• Check Visa Details: Ensure all the details on the visa sticker are correct.

Additional Tips:

• Early Application: Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

• Accurate Information: Ensure all information provided is accurate and truthful.

• Document Translations: If any documents are not in English or French, provide certified translations.

By following these steps and preparing your application carefully, you can increase your chances of obtaining a Canadian tourist visa.