By Tricia Chaves
You must have a valid travel document, such as a passport, titre de voyage or Certificate of Identity to travel to
Canada. Additionally, depending on your country of origin, you may be required to obtain a temporary resident visa for entry into Canada. There are three types of temporary resident visas: a single-entry for one trip, a multiple-entry for several trips and a transit visa for travel through Canada (stops under 48 hours).
Who Is Required to Obtain a Visa
A list of countries whose residents are required to obtain a visa, as well as those who are exempt, is listed at Immigration to Canada by Country (see Resources).
Application Forms
Those in designated countries required to obtain a visa must find the appropriate form on the Citizen and Immigration to Canada website. Depending on your country of citizenship, as well as the office processing your visa document, the documents required may vary. Specific information about locations and necessary documents can be found at Immigration to Canada, Where to Apply (see Resources).
Required Documents
Required documents include a valid passport or approved travel document, two passport photos of you and all of the family members traveling with you to Canada, proof of available funds to support yourself during your stay in Canada and ensure your return to your home country as planned, plus any additional documents as cited by individual case.
Fees
As of July 2009, visa fees to Canada were $75 for a single-entry, $150 for a multiple-entry and $400 for a family. Personal checks are not accepted for payment. Information for specific sites' fees can be obtained on the Citizenship and Immigration to Canada website.
Timeline
Upon receipt of your documents, an officer will review your application and determine if an interview is necessary. If so, one will be arranged with you. If not, your passport will be returned along with your visa for admission to Canada.
You must apply for your temporary resident visa before you arrive in Canada. It is suggested you do so at least one month prior to your planned arrival, or at least eight weeks in advance if applying by mail. In the event a medical examination is required, an additional three months' processing time will be necessary.
Resources
About the Author:
After working in advertising and promotions for entertainment publisher "The New Times," Tricia Chaves began writing professionally. In 2005, she earned her real-estate salesperson license from the state of Ohio and certification for leasing and property management from the Northeast Ohio Apartment Association. She was certified as a life and weight loss coach and Master Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming in 2011.
