Top Documents Needed For A Canada Visitor Visa In 2025

Applying for a Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV) in 2025 requires careful preparation. Whether you're visiting family, exploring tourist attractions, or attending business events, having the right documents is crucial for a smooth application process. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has specific requirements to assess an applicant’s eligibility and intent to return home after the visit.

This blog outlines the essential documents you need for a Canada Visitor Visa in 2025, ensuring you submit a complete application and avoid unnecessary delays or refusals.

1. Valid Passport

A valid passport is the most important document for your visa application. IRCC requires that your passport:

• Is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Canada.
• Has at least one blank page (other than the last page) for visa stamping.
• Is not damaged or expired at the time of application.

If your passport is close to expiry, renewing it before applying for a visitor visa is recommended.

2. Completed Visa Application Forms

You must fill out and submit the correct visa forms online or on paper, depending on your country’s eligibility. The main forms required are:

• IMM 5257 – Application for Temporary Resident Visa
• IMM 5707 or IMM 5645 – Family Information Form (depending on nationality)
• IMM 5476 – Use of Representative Form (if applying through an agent or lawyer)

Make sure the information in your forms is accurate and matches the supporting documents.

3. Passport-Size Photographs

You need two recent passport-sized photos that meet IRCC’s specifications:

• Size: 35mm x 45mm
• Neutral facial expression (no smiling or frowning)
• Plain white or light-coloured background
• No shadows or reflections

Check IRCC’s official website for updated photo requirements before submission.

4. Proof Of Financial Support

To prove that you can support yourself financially during your visit, you must provide:

• Bank statements (last 4–6 months) showing a stable financial position.
• Pay stubs or salary slips (if employed).
• Income tax returns (ITR) or tax assessments.
• Sponsorship letter (if someone in Canada is funding your trip).
• Proof of fixed assets (property documents, investments, etc.).

A strong financial statement reassures visa officers that you can cover your travel expenses.

5. Purpose Of Travel Documents

You need to show a clear reason for your visit, such as:

• Tourism: Hotel bookings, travel itinerary, flight reservations.
• Family Visit: Invitation letter from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Business: Conference registration, business meetings, or event invitations.

Your documents should align with the visa category you are applying for.

6. Invitation Letter (If Visiting Family or Friends)

If you’re visiting family or friends in Canada, an invitation letter from your host is necessary. It should include:

• Host’s full name, address, and contact details.
• Your relationship with the host.
• Purpose and duration of your visit.
• A statement confirming financial support (if applicable).
• Proof of host’s Canadian residency (PR card, passport, etc.).

The letter should be notarized if required by the visa office in your country.

7. Travel Itinerary

A well-planned travel itinerary helps strengthen your visa application. It should include:

• Flight reservations (round-trip tickets recommended).
• Hotel bookings or accommodation details.
• Tour plans, event tickets, or business meeting schedules.

You don’t need to book actual flights before visa approval, but providing a tentative itinerary is advisable.

8. Proof Of Ties To Home Country

Visa officers assess whether applicants have strong ties to their home country, ensuring they will return after their visit. Acceptable documents include:

• Employment letter stating job position, salary, and leave approval.
• Business registration documents (for self-employed applicants).
• Property ownership documents proving real estate investments.
• Family ties evidence (marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates, etc.).

These documents increase the chances of visa approval by showing you have commitments back home.

9. Travel History (If Applicable)

If you’ve previously traveled abroad, especially to the U.S., UK, Schengen countries, or Australia, include:

• Previous visas and entry-exit stamps.
• Copies of old passports (if applicable).

A good travel history strengthens your application, proving you followed immigration rules in other countries.

10. Medical Examination (If Required)

Some applicants may need a medical exam, depending on their home country and length of stay. IRCC may request a medical exam if:

• You plan to stay in Canada for more than six months.
• You are from a country that requires immigration medical exams.
• You are working in healthcare or with vulnerable groups.

A panel physician approved by IRCC must conduct the examination.

11. Biometrics Appointment Confirmation

Most applicants must provide fingerprints and a photo at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). Once you submit your application, you’ll receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter with details on how to book an appointment.

Biometrics are usually valid for 10 years, so if you have already submitted them in a past application, you may not need to do so again.

12. Visa Processing Fee Receipt

Pay the required visa fee online and keep the receipt as proof of payment. As of 2025, the standard fee for a single-entry or multiple-entry Canada Visitor Visa is around $100 CAD, with an additional $85 CAD for biometrics (if applicable).

Final Checklist Before Submission

Before submitting your application, ensure that:

• All documents are clear, readable, and in English or French (or have certified translations).
• Forms are correctly filled and signed where required.
• You have uploaded scanned copies of all required documents if applying online.
• Your passport is valid for the entire trip duration.

Conclusion

Applying for a Canada Visitor Visa in 2025 requires a well-prepared application with complete and accurate documents. By gathering the necessary paperwork in advance, you increase your chances of approval and avoid delays. Whether you’re visiting Canada for tourism, family, or business, following these guidelines ensures a smooth visa process.