
Applying for a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) to Canada involves several steps. This visa allows you to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or short-term business purposes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
You must meet the following requirements to apply for a Canadian visitor visa:
- Have a valid passport.
- Be in good health.
- Prove you have ties to your home country (e.g., job, family, property).
- Show sufficient funds to cover your stay in Canada.
- Intend to leave Canada at the end of your visit.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
The documents required for a visitor visa include:
- Completed Application Form (IMM 5257) – Available on the IRCC website.
- Family Information Form (IMM 5645) – Include all family members.
- Valid Passport – Ensure it has at least six months of validity.
- Photographs – Two recent passport-sized photos following Canada’s specifications.
- Proof of Financial Support – Bank statements, pay slips, or tax returns.
- Purpose of Visit – Letter of invitation from a Canadian resident (if applicable), hotel bookings, or a travel itinerary.
- Proof of Ties to Home Country – Employment letters, property documents, or other evidence.
- Travel History – Copies of previous visas and entry stamps (if applicable).
- Additional Documents – Based on your situation, such as medical exams, police certificates, or documents supporting business visits.
Step 3: Create an IRCC Account
- Go to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website: www.canada.ca.
- Create a GCKey account or use a secure sign-in partner.https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html
- Complete your profile and upload the required documents.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
- Visitor Visa Fee: CAD 100 per person.
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person (if applicable).
- Payment is made online via credit/debit card.
Step 5: Provide Biometrics
- After submitting your application, you’ll receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter.
- Book an appointment at your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and a photo. (675 Dr Danister De Silva Mawatha Colombo 00900, Sri Lanka ) https://www.vfsglobal.ca/IRCC-AppointmentWave1/Account/RegisteredLogin?q=shSA0YnE4pLF9Xzwon/x/CQ1P0LBKn66dLdNUfueK+xngaEB93090KqJ4tYOHm1uKFyK7T0yNUwqFkyO8BvtpMPlYtJ3CI+Ag4JBKAewfWg=
Step 6: Wait for Processing
- Visitor visa processing times vary by country. Check estimated times on the IRCC website.
- You may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional documents.
Step 7: Decision and Passport Submission
- If approved, you’ll receive a request to submit your passport for visa stamping.
- Submit your passport to the nearest VAC along with the passport request letter.
Step 8: Receive Your Visa
- Once processed, your passport will be returned with the visa stamped.
- Ensure all details on the visa are correct.
Additional Tips
- Travel Insurance: Though not mandatory, it’s advisable to have insurance.
- Application Accuracy: Double-check your form and documents to avoid rejections.
- Invitation Letter: If visiting family or friends, include a detailed invitation letter mentioning their address, status in Canada, and the purpose of your visit.
For more details, visit the IRCC Official Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html.