Canada Visa process is one that you should be well-acquainted with before you even think about applying, knowing what the odds are of getting a Canada Visa to enter this country. Canada’s visa application process is one that needs your undivided attention. Once you apply, there is no turning back. You can always apply again, but you cannot apply too early.
There are many things to remember when getting a Canada Visa. The list of things you need to bring with you is almost as long as the application itself.
While it may seem tedious, remember that Canada considers those applying for a visa to be entering the country under the full knowledge that they are doing so legally and legally only. Therefore, any illegality or lack of documentation will only hurt your chances of entering the country. Because of this, it is crucial that each application be perfect so that the visa you get is not just a stamp on your passport but an actual entry into Canada.
In order to ensure that you successfully apply for a Canada Visa and enter the country legally, you need to take note of Canada’s requirements. With this in mind, it is important to know what information is needed by Canada’s government; otherwise, your application may be denied automatically and that is the essence of this guide.
Types of Canada Visas
There are three types of Canada Visa: the visitor visa, the study permit, and the work permit. The main difference between them all is the length of stay.
Visitor Visa:
The visitor visa is for those who want to visit Canada for no more than six months. There are two types of this visa: tourist and other travel. Tourist visas are issued when applicants want to visit friends or relatives in Canada or to simply visit the country itself. Other travel visas are issued when applicants have plans on attending a business convention, a trade fair, or another sort of similar event that may last longer than six months but still be considered temporary in nature.
Study Permit:
The study permit is meant for those who want to attend a post-secondary program in Canada. This visa is issued only to non-Canadians and can only be used when the applicant attends a school that is accredited in the country by the government of Canada. The student is expected to secure admission first with the preferred institution before being considered for this visa.
See Also: Canada Student Visa – How To Apply
Work Permit:
The work permit is meant for those who want to work in Canada. This visa is an open-ended one and can only be used by the holder after they have a job offer from a Canadian employer. This type of visa is most likely the one that you will apply for, as it is easy to get if you have a job offer in hand. Canada actually encourages foreign workers as they are needed in many industries, including construction and hospitality.
Highlights of Requirements for All Three Types of Canada Visa
For all three types, applicants need to prepare and gather certain documents to apply for a Canada Visa and the document includes:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your intended date of return to your home country. A damaged passport is also required if you prefer to replace it. Important information must also be visible on the outside and inside pages of your passport, such as your photo, name, birth date and country of origin.
- Confirm your status in your home country: If you are an American citizen or a Canadian citizen, you will be required to provide proof of your citizenship (Canadian passport or United States passport). This can only be done in person with proper identification and a valid photo ID.
- Complete application form: The application form itself may vary based on the type of visa that you want to apply for. All forms have basic questions pertaining to name, gender, number of Passport stamps/pages/years, passport number, and country of issue. It also has questions that relate to your travel history and activities while in Canada. All information must be filled out completely and the forms must be signed by the applicant. An application fee is required to apply, but it can always change without prior notice.
- Biometrics Information: This means that your fingerprints will be taken for identification purposes when applying for a Canada Visa, as well as your photo, signature, and other personal details that will be verified later on by authorities at the airport when you arrive in Canada.
- Proof of Funds: You will need to show proof of sufficient funds to help you survive for the duration of your stay in Canada. This can be a bank statement or a letter from your employer stating how much you are getting paid. Once again, it depends on the type of visa that you apply for and your travel plans.
Final Thoughts
While there is a lot to take in, you need not worry about your Canada visa application process. If the thought of doing everything alone is a little intimidating and time-consuming, there are always places that can help you get through it easier.
For example, if you have a job offer in hand, then you can contact your prospective employer or recruiter to ask for help with your application. If you are a college student, then you can ask for help from your school’s provincial office. If you have family in Canada, then you can always ask them to help with the application process as well.
Following these steps will lessen the fear of an application and make it much easier to get through. In addition, do not forget that there are a few things that you will be expected to bring with you when applying for your Canada Visa such as proof of sufficient funds, biometrics information, and even fingerprints.
