Canada is one of the most visited countries in the world, known for its beautiful landscapes, lively cities, and rich culture. If you are a resident of Dubai and planning to visit Canada, you will need to get a visit visa. The process may seem complicated, but with the right information and preparation, it can be quite straightforward. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to apply for a Canada visit visa from Dubai, along with some tips to make your application smooth and successful.
Understanding the Canada Visit Visa
A Canada visit visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows you to enter Canada for tourism, visiting family and friends, or business purposes. It is usually issued for short stays, which usually does not go beyond six months. In addition, there are two types of visit visas: single and multiple entry. Single entry means you can only come to Canada once, while multiple means you can stay and leave and re-enter Canada as often as you like during the lifetime of the visa.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
You should check whether you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Canadian government before you apply for a Canada visit visa. The criteria include:
Valid Passport: You must have a valid passport with at least one blank page for the visa.
Purpose of Visit: You should clearly state the purpose of your visit, whether it’s tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending a business conference.
Financial Support: You will have to show that you are financially sound, with enough funds to take care of your accommodation, transportation, and other everyday expenses during your stay in Canada.
Ties to Your Home Country: You need to establish good ties to your home country in the form of a stable job, property, or family to prove that you will return once you are done with your visit.
Clean Record Free of any offense, and an intention to follow the laws governing immigration to Canada.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
After establishing whether you qualify to apply for your visa, you can then proceed with the collection of the necessary documents to apply for your visa. The necessary documents are:
Prepared Visa Application Form: Filling the Visa Application Form: IMM 5257 which you can find from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada webpage.
Passport Photographs: Provide two recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specified requirements.
Proof of Financial Support: Submit bank statements, pay stubs, or a letter from your employer confirming your employment and salary.
Travel Itinerary: Include details of your travel plans, such as flight bookings, accommodation reservations, and a travel itinerary.
Letter of Invitation: If you are visiting your family or friends in Canada, you must have a letter of invitation from your host with contact information and proof of his/her status in Canada.
Purpose of Visit: Clearly explain the purpose of your visit. You can do this by presenting any supporting documents, such as conference registration or a travel plan.
Step 3: Application Submission
You can submit your visa application either online or at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Dubai. The online application process is usually more convenient and faster. Here’s how to submit your application:
Online Application:
Create an Online Account: Create an account on the IRCC website and complete the online visa application form (IMM 5257).
Upload Documents: Scan and upload all the required documents, including your passport, photographs, and supporting documents.
Pay the Application Fee: You would pay the visa application fee non-refundable using a credit or debit card. It normally ranges around CAD 100.
Submit Biometrics: You must take an appointment in the nearest VAC for submitting your biometric information that would include your photograph and fingerprints. This step applies to most of the applicants.
Submit Application: Once you’ve completed all of the steps listed above, submit your application.
In-Person Application:
Visit the VAC: Attend the nearest Visa Application Centre in Dubai and present your completed visa application form, IMM 5257, with all supporting documents.
Pay the Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee at the VAC.
Submit Biometrics: Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at the VAC.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Once you submit your application, you have to wait for processing. The time for processing a Canada visit visa varies due to several reasons, especially the volume of applications and the completeness of the application. The average period is usually 2 to 4 weeks. You can check the status of your application by logging in to your IRCC account online.
Step 5: Prepare for Your Tour
Upon receiving approval of your visa to Canada, it is time to begin planning your trip. Here are some tips so that your tour will run smoothly and devoid of stress:
Plan Your Itinerary: Canada is a vast country with numerous attractions. Proper planning beforehand is essential for making the most out of your visit. Some places that must be visited are Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, the hustle-bustle city of Toronto, and the historic city of Quebec.
Pack Accordingly: The climate in Canada is largely seasonal and regional-based. Pack accordingly depending on when you plan to visit.
Stay Connected: Ensure you have a means of keeping in touch with your family and friends back home. You can buy a SIM card from where you visit or even have an international roaming package for your mobile phone.
Learn About Canadian Culture: Learn the ways of the Canadian culture to make a good impression and enjoy a hassle-free experience while visiting.
Conclusion
Preparing and knowing all the requirements would help in making a manageable process out of getting a Canada visit visa from Dubai. From the steps indicated in this article, you increase your chances for a successful application and get ready to experience the natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich culture of Canada. Gather all your documents, be truthful in your information, and be patient while waiting for processing. You will soon be prepared to have an unforgettable experience in the Great White North.