By Shelly Schumacher
Canada is a country of great diversity. Its topography runs the gamut of coastal regions, lush woodlands and mountains. From its aboriginal roots to ties with French fur traders and British parliament, travelers to Canada can spend months in this multicultural region and only tap the surface. All visitors from the
United States are required to have a valid passport. However, if you plan to spend more than six months in Canada, you will also need a visa. Furthermore, individuals working or studying in Canada, regardless of length of stay, are required to have an appropriate visa.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You'll Need:
- Visa application package
Passport
Passport photos
Proof of financial stability
Physical examination
Criminal background check
Employment verification
Identification cards
Letters from individuals being visited
Interview with visa official
Proof of application fee payment
- Visa application package
- Passport
- Passport photos
- Proof of financial stability
- Physical examination
- Criminal background check
- Employment verification
- Identification cards
- Letters from individuals being visited
- Interview with visa official
- Proof of application fee payment
Step 1
Download a temporary resident visa application package from the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.
Step 2
Thoroughly read the application guide before filling out any materials.
Step 3
Fill out the visa application.
Step 4
Provide a valid passport and two recent photographs of each person who is listed on the application.
Step 5
Include proof of financial stability. This will show that you have enough money to cover the entire length of your stay in Canada.
Step 6
Provide any additional documentation needed to complete the application. This could include identification cards, employment verification or a letter from Canadian residents who invited you for the extended visit.
Step 7
Pay the application fees. Current fees are $75 for a single-entry visa, $150 for a multiple-entry visa or $400 for either a multiple- or single-entry family visa. These can be paid online or at a Canadian financial institution. Proof of payment should be included with your application.
Step 8
Determine if you will need an interview with a Canadian visa officer as well as a physical examination or a criminal background check. These are not always necessary, so you will be contacted if they are required.
Step 9
Sign and date the form when it is completed.
Step 10
Mail the application form to the Canadian visa office in your country of residence.
Step 11
Wait to receive your visa in the mail. The processing time can range from a few days to six months, depending on the length of your stay and other factors.
Resources
About the Author:
Shelly Schumacher has a diverse writing background that includes work in print as well as electronic publications. She has been writing for over 18 years and enjoys working with a variety of different clients on both writing projects and as a marketing and public relations consultant. Schumacher holds a Bachelor of Science in journalism from the University of Wisconsin.
