Ever wanted to see Canada in all its beauty? With cities like Toronto and Vancouver and landscapes in Banff and Jasper, this is a land waiting to be discovered. Having already been to Dubai, planning a trip to Canada requires getting a visit visa. Let’s break down step by step what you will need for your documents.
- Understand the Visa Requirements
First things first: As a UAE resident you will need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit Canada. The Temporary Resident Visa is for tourists, business visitors, and those visiting family or friends for short stays of six months or less. Make sure you have everything in order; otherwise, your application is going to be declined. Let’s get into it.
- Passport
Your passport is your main travel document. Make sure it’s valid for at least the length of your stay in Canada. You will need:
Validity: Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your date of departure from Canada.
Blank Pages: You must have available at least one blank page for any visa sticker.
Copy of Bio-Data Page: Include a clear photocopy of the bio-data page of your passport, which contains your personal information and photograph.
- Application Form (IMM 5257)
This is the main form you’ll need to fill out for your Canada visit visa. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Accuracy: Ensure that all information is accurate and complete. Double-check for any errors before submitting.
Signature: Don’t forget to sign the form! Unsigned applications can delay or refuse the processing.
- Photographs
Photographs are an integral part of your visa application. IRCC has some specific requirements that your photographs need to meet. Here’s what you need:
Number of Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos.
Specifications: The photos need to be in color, within the last six months, with a plain white or light-colored background.
Size and Quality: The photo should be 35mm x 45mm in size with a clear picture of your face. Avoid shadows and make sure the photo is not blurry or pixelated.
- Proof of Funds
You must show that you have sufficient funds to sustain yourself during your stay in Canada. Here’s how you can do it:
Bank Statements: Provide bank statements for the last three to six months. Ensure they show a healthy balance and regular transactions.
Pay Stubs: Include recent pay stubs from your employer to show your income.
Letter of Employment: A letter from your employer stating your job title, salary, and the length of your employment can strengthen your application.
Support from Family or Friends: If a family member or friend in Canada is hosting your visit, include bank statements and a letter of support.
- Travel Itinerary
Your travel itinerary can establish the intent to stay in Canada. Include the following:
Flight Bookings: Provide flight bookings information, even though these might not be confirmed. A tentative itinerary can be submitted.
Accommodation Reservations: Hotel booking or a letter of invitation from family or friends you will be staying with.
Daily Plans: This is your outline of what you will be doing daily and the places you intend to visit. This is to show that you have planned your stay in advance.
- Purpose of Visit
Explain your purpose for visiting Canada clearly. This can be tourism, visiting family or friends, or a business meeting. Here is how to do it:
Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that explains the purpose of your visit, your travel plans, and your ties to the UAE. Be concise and to the point.
Supporting Documents: Attach additional documents that serve to support your visit purpose such as a letter of invitation, or a formal invitation to participate in a conference by family friends residing in Canada.
- Ties to UAE
Show the visa officer that you are going to come back to UAE after your visit by proving your ties to UAE through:
Employment Letter: A letter from your employer stating that you have a job to return to.
Property Ownership: Documents showing ownership of property in the UAE.
Family Commitments: Evidence of family members living in the UAE, such as birth certificates or family registration documents.
Financial Obligations: Any loans or financial responsibilities you have in the UAE.
- Health and Travel Insurance
While not compulsory, health and travel insurance are highly recommended as they will help cover any medical or travel issues that may crop up during your stay. What you will need:
Coverage: The insurance needs to cover your entire stay in Canada.
Proof of Insurance: Attach a copy of your insurance policy to your application.
- Other Supporting Documents
The following may apply to your circumstances. They can include:
Biometrics: Most applicants for a visa to Canada need to provide biometrics, including fingerprints and a photo. After submitting your application, you will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter that explains how to book an appointment.
Medical Exam: You may need to undergo a medical exam in certain situations, for example, if you are going to stay in Canada for more than six months or work in certain occupations. If a medical exam is required, IRCC will let you know.
- Submitting your application
After preparing all the needed documents, it is now time to submit the application. This can be done online through the IRCC website or personally at the nearest VAC. Here’s how:
Online Submission
Account creation: Go to the IRCC website and create an account on the IRCC portal.
Complete the Forms: Fill out the necessary forms, including the IMM 5257 and any additional forms required based on your specific circumstances.
Upload Documents: Upload all the required documents as specified in the application guidelines.
Pay the Application Fee: The fee for a TRV is typically around CAD 100. Payment can be made online, and make sure to keep the receipt as proof of payment.
In-Person Submission
Visit the VAC: Proceed to the nearest VAC with all your completed forms and required documents.
Submit Your Application: Hand over your application and documents to the VAC staff.
Pay the Fee: Pay the application fee at the VAC and retain the receipt as proof of payment.
- Processing Time
It is hard to estimate the processing time for a visit visa to Canada from Dubai. However, generally, it takes about 14 to 30 days. Applying in advance would be wise as it would prevent any last-minute stress.
- Receiving the Decision
Once your application is processed, you’ll receive a decision. If it’s approved, you’ll have your passport returned to you with the visa sticker. If not, you’ll get an explanation. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not successful the first time – you can reapply with additional information or when circumstances change.
- Preparing for Your Trip
With your visa in hand, it’s time to prepare for your Canadian adventure:
Travel Insurance: While not required, travel insurance is highly recommended for any unexpected medical or travel issues.
Customs and Immigration: Upon arrival in Canada, you will go through customs and immigration. Be prepared to present your passport, visa, and other supporting documents. The border officer may ask a few questions about your travel plans.
- Have Fun in Canada
After taking that long route into Canada with respect to your visa, now comes the enjoyment period. It would be nice experiencing the urban throngs of busy cities, watching the scenic grandeur of natures, and the vibrant cultural heritage that characterizes Canada. For sure, remember to enjoy that poutine; go for some hockey match and more photogenic pictures taken.
Getting a Canada visit visa from Dubai would seem to be a long way, but all the work involved can be mitigated if there is careful preparation and right information. Safe travels, and have a wonderful journey in Canada! ????✈️????