Have you ever wondered how much it would cost to apply for a visit visa to Canada? Well, look no further! In this article, we will give you all the information you need to know about the cost of obtaining a visit visa to Canada. Whether you are planning a vacation, visiting family or friends, or simply exploring the beauty of the Great White North, understanding the expenses involved in the visa process is crucial. So, let’s get started and discover how much it really costs to embark on your Canadian adventure!
Types of Visit Visas
Canada offers several types of visit visas, each with its own eligibility requirements, costs, and validity periods. Understanding the different types of visit visas will help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
The Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is the most common type of visit visa for Canada. It is issued to individuals who wish to visit Canada for tourism, to visit family or friends, or for business purposes. The TRV allows you to stay in Canada for a specific period of time.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a Temporary Resident Visa, you must demonstrate that you will return to your home country after your visit to Canada. This can be done by providing evidence of strong ties to your home country, such as employment, property ownership, or family commitments.
Cost
The cost of a Temporary Resident Visa varies depending on your country of residence. As of 2021, the application fee for a single entry TRV is CAD 100, while a multiple entry TRV costs CAD 500. Additional fees may be required for biometrics and third-party services. It is important to check the latest fees before applying.
Processing Time
The processing time for a Temporary Resident Visa application can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the volume of applications and the complexity of your case. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for sufficient processing time.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a faster and more convenient way to visit Canada for citizens of visa-exempt countries. The eTA is linked electronically to your passport and is valid for multiple visits within a specific period.
Eligible Countries
Citizens of certain countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and most European Union countries, are eligible for an eTA. A complete list of eligible countries can be found on the official Government of Canada website.
Cost
The cost of an Electronic Travel Authorization is CAD 7 and is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can apply for an eTA online, and payment can be made using a credit card.
Validity
An eTA allows you to stay in Canada for up to six months per visit. It is important to note that an eTA is not a guarantee of entry into Canada. You will still be subject to examination by a border officer upon arrival.
Super Visa
The Super Visa is a type of visit visa specifically designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows them to visit their family in Canada for an extended period of time.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a Super Visa, you must meet certain requirements, including having a child or grandchild who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, providing a written invitation from your child or grandchild, and proof of financial support.
Cost
The cost of a Super Visa is CAD 100 per person. Unlike other visit visas, the Super Visa is valid for up to two years and allows for multiple entries. You will also need to provide proof of medical insurance coverage for at least one year.
Validity
A Super Visa is valid for up to 10 years, allowing parents and grandparents to visit their family in Canada for extended periods without the need to renew their visa frequently.
Application Fees
In addition to the cost of the visit visa itself, there are other fees that may need to be paid when applying for a visit visa to Canada.
Processing Fees
Processing fees are charged by the Canadian government for reviewing and processing your visa application. The processing fee varies depending on the type of visit visa you are applying for and can range from CAD 100 to CAD 500.
Biometrics Fees
Biometrics fees are required for individuals aged 14 to 79 and are used to collect fingerprints and a photograph. The fee for biometrics is CAD 85 per person or CAD 170 per family.
Third-party Services
If you choose to use a third-party service, such as a visa application centre or a travel agency, they may charge additional fees for their services. These fees are separate from the visa application fees and should be paid directly to the service provider.
Factors Affecting the Cost
Several factors can affect the overall cost of a visit visa to Canada. Understanding these factors will help you plan your budget accordingly.
Type of Visa
Different types of visit visas have different costs associated with them. For example, the Temporary Resident Visa and Super Visa have specific application fees, while the eTA has a separate cost. It is important to consider the type of visa that best fits your needs and budget.
Country of Residence
The cost of a visit visa can vary depending on your country of residence. The Canadian government determines visa fees based on reciprocity, meaning that the fees charged to citizens of a certain country may be determined by the fees that country charges Canadian citizens for similar visas.
Applicant’s Age
Some visit visas, such as the Super Visa, may require proof of medical insurance coverage. The cost of medical insurance may vary depending on the age of the applicant, with older individuals generally paying higher premiums.
Applicant’s Nationality
Visa requirements and fees can vary depending on the nationality of the applicant. It is important to check the specific requirements for your nationality before applying for a visit visa to Canada.
Additional Expenses
In addition to the visa and application fees, there are other expenses to consider when planning a visit to Canada.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory for all visit visas, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance when visiting Canada. Travel insurance can help cover costs associated with medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage.
Medical Examination
Some visit visas, such as the Super Visa, require a medical examination before the visa can be issued. The cost of a medical examination will vary depending on the requirements of the visa and the location of the examination.
Flight Tickets
The cost of flight tickets to Canada will depend on several factors, including the time of year, the duration of your stay, and the location you are traveling from. It is advisable to book your tickets well in advance to secure the best prices.
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation in Canada will vary depending on the city and type of accommodation you choose. It is important to research accommodation options and budget accordingly.
Fee Waivers and Discounts
There are certain situations in which individuals may be eligible for fee waivers or discounts on visit visa fees.
Family Members in Canada
If you have immediate family members in Canada who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents, you may be eligible for a fee waiver or a reduced fee for your visit visa application. This applies to certain types of visit visas, such as the Temporary Resident Visa.
Refugees and Protected Persons
Refugees and protected persons who have been granted asylum in Canada may be eligible for fee waivers or reduced fees when applying for a visit visa. This is to assist individuals in reconnecting with their families and loved ones.
Visiting on Official Business
If you are visiting Canada for official business purposes, such as attending conferences or meetings, you may be eligible for fee waivers or discounts on your visa fees. It is important to provide supporting documentation to demonstrate the official nature of your visit.
Payment Methods
There are several methods available to pay for your visit visa fees.
Online Payment
The most common and convenient method of payment is online payment. When applying online, you can pay the visa fees using a credit card or a debit card.
Bank Draft
If you prefer to pay by bank draft, you can obtain a bank draft in Canadian dollars and submit it along with your visa application. It is important to ensure that the bank draft is made payable to the appropriate recipient.
Credit Card
Credit cards are widely accepted for payment when applying for a visit visa to Canada. It is important to ensure that your credit card is valid and has sufficient funds to cover the visa fees.
Conclusion
As you can see, the cost of a visit visa to Canada can vary depending on several factors, including the type of visa, your country of residence, and additional expenses such as travel insurance and accommodation. It is important to carefully consider your budget and plan accordingly. Remember to check the latest fees and requirements before applying and to allow sufficient processing time for your visa application. With the right preparation and documentation, you’ll be on your way to experiencing the beauty and warmth of Canada.
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