Document Checklist
Canada Visitor Visa (TRV) Document Checklist 2026
A Canada Temporary Resident Visa (TRV, commonly called a visitor visa) is decided mainly on the strength of your online application and supporting documents through your IRCC secure account. There's no routine interview for most applicants, so a complete, consistent document set is what carries the decision. Gather everything below before you start your online application, and confirm current fees and forms on IRCC's website, since both change.
Identity and core forms
- Valid passportMust remain valid for your planned stay; scan the biographical page for upload.
- Digital photoMeeting IRCC's photo specifications, uploaded with the online application.
- Application for Visitor Visa (IMM 5257)The core visitor visa form, completed through your IRCC online account.
- Family Information Form (IMM 5645)Required if you're applying with family members or listing dependants.
- Use of a Representative (IMM 5476)Only needed if an immigration consultant or lawyer is submitting on your behalf.
Purpose and itinerary
- Detailed travel itineraryPlanned dates of entry and departure, and any onward travel within Canada.
- Round-trip flight reservationA hold or reservation is generally enough — you don't need a paid ticket to apply.
- Proof of accommodationHotel bookings for the full stay, or an invitation letter with the host's address if staying with family or friends.
- Letter of invitation (if applicable)From a Canadian host, stating the relationship, purpose, and length of your visit — strengthens family/friend visits.
Financial evidence
- Bank statements for the last 3–6 monthsShowing a consistent balance; most applicants show CAD $2,500–$5,000 for a two-week visit, scaling up for longer trips.
- Proof of employment and incomeEmployment letter confirming role, salary, and approved leave, or business registration and tax filings if self-employed.
- Pay slips or income tax documentsRecent pay slips or a Notice of Assessment / tax return, depending on your employment status.
- Sponsor's financial evidence (if someone else is funding the trip)A letter from your host or sponsor plus their bank statements or pay slips, if a third party is covering your costs.
Ties to home and biometrics
- Evidence of ties to your home countryProperty documents, family situation, business ownership, or enrolment proof supporting that you'll return.
- Travel historyCopies of previous visas and stamps showing prior international travel, especially any prior Canadian or US visas.
- BiometricsMost applicants aged 14–79 must give fingerprints and a photo at a Visa Application Centre; fee is $85 CAD per person ($170 CAD max per family applying together).
- Digital medical exam or police certificate (if requested)Only required if IRCC flags your specific application for extra screening.
Tips
- Budget $100 CAD per person for the visa fee (capped at $500 CAD for a family of five or more applying together), plus $85 CAD per person for biometrics.
- IRCC's published average processing time for visitor visas from outside Canada runs around 30 days as of 2026, but it varies significantly by country of residence and application volume — check the current estimate for your country before booking travel.
- Apply online through your IRCC secure account; paper applications are only accepted where online submission isn't available.
- Keep every number consistent — trip costs, income figures, and dates should match across the form, your bank evidence, and any invitation letter.
- A visitor visa does not permit paid work or study beyond short authorised courses — state your purpose accurately, since misrepresentation can trigger a multi-year inadmissibility bar.
Requirements change — always confirm the current list with the official source before you submit.
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