The first step towards a successful journey to Canada begins with understanding the different types of Canadian visas available. Each visa type serves a distinct purpose, whether it’s for temporary visitation, study, work, or permanent residency. Knowing the specific visa that aligns with your intentions in Canada is crucial as it directly impacts the eligibility criteria, the application process, and the rights or benefits associated with it.
Types of Canadian Visas
Visas are issued to individuals who intend to stay in Canada for a specific purpose and a limited period. Under this category, various visa types cater to different needs. Below is a list of some of the most popular visas issued.
Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa, TRV)
- Tourist Visa: For individuals visiting Canada for leisure, tourism, or family visits. It allows you to travel and stay in Canada for up to six months.
- Business Visitor Visa: Specifically for business individuals who intend to visit Canada for business purposes like attending conferences, meetings, or business events.
- Super Visa: Designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing them to stay in Canada for up to two years per visit.
Work Permit
- Employer-Specific Work Permit: Allows you to work for a specific employer in Canada.
- Open Work Permit: Allows you to work for any employer in Canada, except for those listed as ineligible or those who offer erotic services.
- International Experience Canada (IEC): Provides young individuals the opportunity to travel and work in Canada.
Study Permit
Allows international students to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can be applied for after completing a study program, allowing students to gain work experience in Canada.
Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
Issued to individuals who are inadmissible to Canada due to various reasons but have a valid reason to enter or stay in Canada.
Transit Visa
Required for individuals from certain countries who are passing through Canada en route to another country and will be staying for less than 48 hours.
Working Holiday Visa (part of IEC)
Allows young individuals from certain countries to work and travel in Canada for up to one or two years, depending on their country of residence.
Young Professionals Visa (part of IEC)
Provides young professionals an opportunity to gain Canadian work experience in their field of study or career.
International Co-op Internship (part of IEC)
For students who are required to complete an internship as part of their academic curriculum.
Which Type of Canada Visa is Easy to Get?
The ease of obtaining a visa for Canada varies depending on the type of visa and other factors such as the applicant’s qualifications, the thoroughness of the application, and the specific immigration program. Among the types of visas, the work permit has a relatively higher approval rate, ranging between 65% to 75%, while the student permit has an approval rate of around 60%. Visitor visas have seen a decline in approval rates from 82% in 2011 to 66% in 2020.
The Application Process for Canadian Visas
The process of applying for a Canadian visa starts with choosing the correct visa type and program that aligns with your purpose of visit or immigration. There are over 100 different immigration programs and visa types available, each designed for specific purposes such as tourism, work, or family reunification. It’s crucial to select the one that best caters to your needs to increase the likelihood of a successful application.
Identifying the appropriate visa type, you will need to gather the necessary documentation. The documents required vary based on the visa type and the purpose of your visit. However, common documents include your passport, the appropriate Canada visa application form, proof of paid Canada visa fees, proof of clean criminal record, a medical exam indicating good health, photographs as per Canada visa photo requirements, and proof of financial means. The specific documents required might further depend on why you are traveling to Canada, for instance, additional documents might be required for work or study visas compared to tourist visas.
Once you have the necessary documentation, you will need to fill out the appropriate application forms. The application package typically includes an instruction guide and the forms you need to complete. The instruction guide provides crucial information you must be aware of before submitting your application and details on how to fill out the forms and gather your supporting documents.
The processing of your application begins after the submission of all required documents and payment of the necessary fees. The Canadian immigration authorities will review your application for completeness and accuracy. Incomplete applications may be returned without processing. If further information is required, they will contact you. Once your application is approved, you might be asked to send your passport for visa stamping.
The processing times and fees vary depending on the visa type and the specific immigration program you are applying through. However, here are some examples. The processing time for Canada’s visitor visa can range widely from 23 days to 8 months, depending on the country of application, with a shorter processing time of around 23 days for those applying from within Canada. The application fee for an individual is $85 CAD, while families applying together have a maximum total fee of $170 CAD, and groups of three or more performing artists and their staff have a maximum total fee of $255 CAD.
To summarize here are the steps to applying for a Canadian Visa.
- Determine Visa Type: Decide the type of visa based on your intent (e.g., work, study, visit).
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the chosen visa type.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather required documents such as identity proof, financial statements, and others relevant to your visa type.
- Complete Application: Fill out the application form accurately, following the guidelines provided.
- Pay Fees: Pay the processing fee, which varies per visa type.
- Submit Application: Submit your application online or through designated centers.
- Await Processing: Wait for the application to be processed, which may take from a few weeks to several months, depending on the visa type and other factors.
- Respond to Additional Requests: Provide any further information or documentation as requested by the immigration authorities.
Canada By Choice offers a range of services to assist visa applicants, ensuring a seamless application process. Our services include professional consultations, eligibility assessments, and guidance on documentation preparation. Consulting with us provides the benefit of tailored advice, accurate information, and increased chances of a successful visa application. Our expertise in Canadian immigration matters makes us a reliable partner in navigating the complex visa application process.
About Us
Canada By Choice is a Canadian Immigration Firm based in Windsor, Ontario. Founded in 2007, Canada By Choice Immigration is widely considered as one of the most respected immigration firms in our region. We have earned our reputation as a world class firm by providing dedication and personalized service to each and every unique case before us.
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