Overview
A Canada visa is a permit that allows you to visit Canada and stay there for a certain period of time. Canadian visas are of multiple types depending on the type of stay, number of entries, and purpose of the visit. Even though the normal visa is issued for 6 months, the actual length can vary based on the Canadian Border Security Office’s decision.
CANADA VISA IN DEATILS
CANADA Visa Types
Canadian visas can be categorized into Temporary, and Permanent Visa. The temporary resident Canada visa types can be mainly classified into the following –
1. Visitor visa / Temporary resident visa (TRV) – Anyone who is visiting the country for tourism, family or business related purposes are granted temporary resident status. These are issued normally for 6 months. They are of two types-
Canada Tourist Visa – This type is required by an individual whose sole purpose of the visit is tourism. Be it visiting family members/friends, or to explore the country, or any other tourist activities, you require a tourist visa.
Canada Business Visa – If you are planning to visit Canada to implement or expand a business, to attend business meetings/conferences, to venture possible business plans, as long as your main agenda is professional activities, you require a business visa.
2. Work visa – This is a temporary type that permits an individual to work for 6 months in Canada, after which he will have to return home or apply for an extension.
3. Study visa – For students attending courses in Canada that last more than 6 months, a study visa is issued.
Usually, these are issued for multiple entries. Meaning, you can go in and out of the country multiple times in the visa period. Also, most temporary visas are issued for 6 months. However, depending on how strong your case is, the visa officer may issue permits valid up to a maximum of 10 years; or until the passport validity date, whichever comes first.
Documents required
The documents to be submitted for the application depends on the Canada visa types you are aiming for. There are a constant set of documents that are common for all visas, and a special set depending on the type. The general documents required for Canadian visa are as follows,
1) A valid passport + old passports, if any.
2) Photo as per Canada visa requirements.
3) Duly filled and signed application forms.
4) NOC from employer/leave sanction from school/college.
5) Travel itinerary – confirmed air tickets, proof of accommodation.
6) Proof of financial means – bank statements, Form -16, passbook, salary slips, etc.
7) Proof that you will return to your home country once the Canadian visa expires.
8) Identity and Civil Status Documents.
9) Police clearances to show no criminal records (if requested).
10) A cover letter stating your purpose, motive, and duration of the travel.
11) Letter of Sponsor/support/invitation to Canada.
Canada Visa Photo Specifications
The Canada visa photo specifications are as follows –
1) Size: 420px width and 540px length.
2) Colour: Must be submitted in colour showing true skin tones.
3) Photo must be in 600 resolution from the past 6 months.
4) Background: Solid, plain white or light blue only.
5) Photo format should be tft or jpeg
Canada visa processing time
The processing time depends on several factors. The time taken for your visa to be processed after submission can vary based on missing documents, wrong application form, biometric and interview appointments, and various other things. For a good application, the Canada visa stamping processing time is around 10-15 days. However, this can go up to more than 30 days in certain scenarios. It also depends on how early you submit your biometrics as well. It is advised to apply well in advance.