Spouse Joining on Visit Visa in Canada without PR

Yes, your spouse can apply for a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa, TRV) to join you in Canada while you are there without permanent residency (PR). Here are the steps and key considerations for this process:

Steps for Your Spouse to Apply for a Visitor Visa

1. Determine Eligibility:

o Ensure that your spouse meets the general eligibility requirements for a visitor visa, which include having a valid travel document (passport), being in good health, having no criminal or immigration-related convictions, convincing an immigration officer that they will leave Canada at the end of their visit, and having enough money for their stay.

2. Complete the Application Form:

o Your spouse must fill out the application form for a visitor visa (Form IMM 5257) available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

3. Gather Supporting Documents:

o The supporting documents typically include:

 A valid passport

 Proof of relationship to you (e.g., marriage certificate)

 Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay (bank statements, employment letters, etc.)

 A letter of invitation from you (optional but helpful), explaining your status in Canada, purpose of the visit, and accommodation arrangements

 Travel itinerary

 Proof of ties to the home country (employment letter, property ownership, family ties, etc.)

4. Submit Biometrics:

o Your spouse may need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo). They will receive instructions on where and how to give biometrics after submitting the application.

5. Pay the Visa Fee:

o Pay the required application fee online through the IRCC portal.

6. Submit the Application:

o Submit the completed application form and supporting documents either online or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your spouse's country of residence.

7. Attend an Interview (if required):

o In some cases, an interview with a visa officer may be required. Your spouse should be prepared to explain the purpose of the visit and provide any additional documentation if requested.

Key Considerations

1. Intent to Leave Canada:

o Your spouse must convince the visa officer that they intend to leave Canada at the end of their visit. Strong ties to their home country, such as a job, property, or family, can help demonstrate this intent.

2. Duration of Stay:

o Visitor visas are typically issued for a period of up to six months. Your spouse should outline the intended duration of their stay and provide a clear travel itinerary.

3. Financial Support:

o Provide evidence that your spouse has enough funds to support themselves during their stay in Canada. This can include your financial support if you will be providing accommodation and other expenses.

4. Medical Examination:

o Depending on the length of the stay and the country of origin, your spouse might be required to undergo a medical examination.

Conclusion

While your spouse can apply for a visitor visa to join you in Canada, it is important to ensure that the application is complete and accurately demonstrates their intent to visit temporarily and return to their home country after the visit. Providing strong supporting documents and a clear explanation of the visit's purpose will increase the chances of the visa being granted. For detailed guidance, consult the official IRCC website and consider seeking advice from an immigration consultant if needed.