Published 27 July 2026 · Updated 14 August 2026
What you're applying for
Canada's visitor visa, formally the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), covers tourism, family visits and business meetings. It is normally issued multiple-entry, valid up to 10 years or passport expiry, with each stay (normally up to 6 months) set at the border. One strong application can cover a decade of Niagara autumns and family winters.
The IRCC file
Applications go online through the IRCC portal, followed by biometrics at a VFS centre. Processing only starts after biometrics, so book that appointment immediately.
The evidence Canada weighs:
- Funds: 4–6 months of statements, consistent with income; sponsor documents (and their Canadian status) for family-funded visits
- Ties to India: employment and leave approval, business registrations, property, family responsibilities
- Purpose: itinerary or invitation letter with the host's citizenship/PR proof and accommodation
- History: prior compliant travel helps; previous refusals anywhere must be declared, and IRCC checks
Parents visiting children long-term should ask us about the Super Visa, a separate long-stay channel with income and insurance conditions on the Canadian side.
Timelines: plan generously
IRCC processing from India runs several weeks to a few months depending on volumes; there is no official tourist fast-track. Our standing advice: file at least 3 months before travel, more for December holidays. A complete file the first time is the only accelerator. Each IRCC "additional documents" request costs weeks.
Fees
CAD 100 visa fee + CAD 85 biometrics per person, CAD 185 in all, roughly Rs 12,500, with a family cap of CAD 500 on the visa fee and CAD 170 on biometrics; VFS service charges extra. Non-refundable on refusal, which is why we assess weak profiles before you pay.
FAQ
Can I convert a visitor stay into work or study?
Not directly from tourism. Those need their own permits, as a rule from outside Canada. Plan the right category first.
My child studies in Canada. Does that mean my TRV is approved?
It strengthens purpose but does not replace your own ties-and-funds evidence. We build parent files around both.
Is an interview required?
TRVs are decided on papers and biometrics; interviews are rare. The file is the interview, so make it complete.