Visitor Visas

Visitor visas are required for certain foreign nationals who wish to visit or travel through Canada. Depending on your citizenship, you may or may not require a temporary resident visa. If you do not need a visa to travel to Canada, a determination as to whether you will be allowed into Canada will be made upon your arrival to Canada at any port of entry (either at a land border or at the airport)

Of note that all the countries that do not need a visitor visa (except the USA), need to apply for an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding a plane.

Eligibility Requirements

Foreign nationals who do require visas must first apply to a Canadian visa office abroad, before they travel to Canada. Applications will need to meet the following requirements:

  • have a valid travel document, such as a passport.
  • be in good health; a medical examination may be requested.
  • satisfy a visa officer that you have ties to your country of origin, such as a job, assets / property  and family and friends, which will compel you to return.
  • satisfy a visa officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit.
  • have sufficient funds for your stay; the amount of money you will need can vary with the circumstances of the visit, how long you will stay and whether you will stay in a hotel or with friends or relatives.
  • you may also need a letter of invitation from someone who lives in Canada.

The visa office will provide a multiple-entry or single-entry visa, if your application is approved.  You can then use this visa to travel and enter Canada.

Application Process

The application process for a Canadian visitor visa can be complex and time-consuming. To apply for a visitor visa, applicants must complete an online application form, submit supporting documents, and pay the application fee.

The supporting documents required for a visitor visa application may vary, depending on the applicant’s country of origin and individual circumstances. Generally, applicants must provide a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and evidence of ties to their home country. They may also need to undergo a medical exam and obtain health insurance.

Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by Canadian immigration officials, who will assess the applicant’s eligibility for a visitor visa. The processing time for a visitor visa application can vary, depending on the volume of applications, resources and other factors, such as the need for additional information or documentation.

If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a visitor visa, which will specify the validity of the entry visa any other conditions or restrictions. For countries that need a visitor visa, IRCC will ask for their passport and they will insert in the passport a counterfoil with the details of the visa. If the application is refused, the applicant may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply for a visa.

Navigating the application process for a Canadian visitor visa can be challenging, particularly for those unfamiliar with Canadian immigration laws and procedures. Working with qualified immigration lawyers at Bellissimo Immigration Law Group PC can help ensure that your application is complete, accurate, , increasing your chances of a successful outcome, by addressing any concerns that might be raised by a visa officer.  This service goes beyond filing forms and documentary evidence.  It includes the preparation of a detailed legal and factual submission that references the law, previous cases like yours, speaks to and draws from the supporting documentation, review and direction regarding all supporting documentation, where applicable checking your immigration history and addressing any concerns in particular inadmissibility checks.  The work we undertake at Bellissimo Immigration Law Group PC is extensive.

Overcoming Visitor Visa Application Refusal

A refusal of your Canadian visitor visa application can be a frustrating and disappointing experience. However, it is important to remember that a visa refusal does not necessarily mean you cannot visit Canada. There are steps you can take to overcome a visa refusal and increase your chances of a successful application.

While a visa refusal can be challenging, itis important to remember that options may well be available to overcome the decision. By carefully reviewing the reasons for the refusal and working with a qualified immigration lawyer at Bellissimo Immigration Law Group PC, you can receive guidance on the best course of action and increase your chances of a successful application and ultimately achieve your travel goals.

Contact Us

Important Immigration Court Decisions


What Our Clients Are Saying
Divya K
Divya K
I cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible support and expertise provided by Mr Mario and Keely for my dad’s medical inadmissibility case. I retained their law firm after receiving the PFL . From the very beginning, they guided us through the complexities of the immigration process with professionalism, care, and honesty. They not only helped us navigate legal challenges but also provided advice that quite literally saved my dad’s life. They prepared a strong mitigation plan for my dad’s case that worked in our favour. I was particularly impressed by their quick response time and willingness to address any concerns promptly. What sets them apart is their genuine compassion and dedication—they truly care about their clients and go above and beyond to make a difference. I would definitely recommend them to anyone with their immigration issues especially for medical inadmissibility.
dhananjay bhatt
dhananjay bhatt
We would like to thank all the people at Bellissimo Law group for their hardwork and help with our PR file. Mario is professional and the best in providing legal advise.Special mention to Keely who was working on our file since day 1 and went out of the way to ensure we get our permanent residency. She was empathetic and never missed a single thing in our case.We would recommend this firm to all people who want legal professional advise.
CD Sunday
CD Sunday
My spouse and I send our appreciation to the Bellissimo Immigration Law Group, in particular Viola Gniadek, who tirelessly answered all our questions, and was always encouraging and sincere. Our case was deemed to be challenging by other law firms, but the Bellissimo team communicated with us like proper yet kind professionals. With their help, we obtained approval in less than four months, even as we were told it may take about a year of review. Our thank you and well-wishes again to Viola and the Bellissimo group. Cheers!
Nancy Quick
Nancy Quick
I contacted Bellissimo Immigration Law Group after researching the best options for my move to Canada. The firm was highly recommended and my experience with them confirms that they earned their excellent reputation.The team at Bellissimo was thorough and professional. My questions were answered promptly, and they processed my application for a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship resulting in receipt of my certificate much sooner than expected.During my career in Finance and Administration I had very high standards for those providing services to the companies I worked with. Special recognition to Amanda D'Angelo and Hannah Cho. They exceeded my expectations!I have recommended Bellissimo to friends - and I will be working with them again as my family explores immigration options.
Abeer Malik
Abeer Malik
Initial consultation was very good. I will retain them for my immigration matter.
Adair Donohue-Miller
Adair Donohue-Miller
Immigration law is so complex. I got all my questions answered, and then even more helpful information than expected regarding other suitable options for our situation. The call was quick but thorough. It covered all necessary steps, and I finished the call with clarity and peace of mind knowing we had fantastic options available to us. It's hard to put a price tag on peace of mind!
CHERRIE CHAWLA
CHERRIE CHAWLA
I had a Zoom consultation with Mr. Bellissimo, and he was incredibly kind and professional. He took the time to explain my case thoroughly and provided valuable insights. I truly appreciated his honesty in advising me that I didn’t need to hire his team since my case was straightforward. Highly recommend for anyone seeking genuine and knowledgeable legal advice!
Shiv Shankar
Shiv Shankar
Voila has assessed my case in professional way and provided us with the best possible solutions.I highly appreciate their professionalism and recommend for Immigration related assistance.
js_loader