Temporary residence
Visitor Visa – Tourism & Family Visits
Short-term visits to Canada for tourism, family visits, or limited business activities.
Visiting Canada
Canada allows foreign nationals to visit temporarily for tourism, family visits, or short-term business activities.
Depending on nationality, travellers may require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Approval is discretionary and based on the applicant’s intent, finances, and ties to their home country.
General visitor visa requirements
- • Valid passport or travel document
- • Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- • Evidence of strong ties to the home country (employment, family, property)
- • Proof of intent to leave Canada at the end of the visit
- • Medical examination, if required
- • Police clearance certificate, if required
Letters of invitation
A letter of invitation may support a visitor visa application, particularly for family visits. While helpful, an invitation does not guarantee approval and must be supported by strong evidence of temporary intent.
Entry to Canada
Holding a visitor visa does not guarantee entry to Canada. Final entry decisions are made by border officers at the Port of Entry, who assess purpose of travel and admissibility.
Planning a visit to Canada?
We review purpose of travel, ties, and documentation before you apply.