Canada visitor visa 2018 new rules i all details

Here are the new rules and requirements for a Canada Visitor Visa in 2018:

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for a Canada Visitor Visa, you must:

  1. Be outside of Canada and not have a valid visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) for Canada.
  2. Have a valid travel document (such as a passport) that will not expire before your planned departure from Canada.
  3. Have a legitimate reason for visiting Canada (e.g., tourism, visiting family or friends, business, etc.).
  4. Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Canada.
  5. Have a return ticket or onward travel arrangements.
  6. Not be inadmissible to Canada (i.e., you do not have a criminal record or have been involved in any activities that could make you inadmissible).

New Requirements:

  1. Biometric Data: Starting in 2018, biometric data (fingerprints) are required for all applicants 14 years and older. This applies to both paper-based and online applications.
  2. Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): As of March 15, 2016, visitors from visa-exempt countries (including the United States) need an eTA to enter Canada. This is an electronic travel authorization that can be obtained online.
  3. Increased Processing Time: Due to increased demand, processing times for visitor visa applications have increased. It's recommended to apply at least 6-8 weeks before your planned trip to Canada.
  4. Additional Documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide additional documents, such as:
    • Proof of ties to your home country (e.g., employment, family, property).
    • Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, proof of income).
    • Proof of accommodation in Canada (e.g., hotel reservation, letter from host).
    • Proof of travel insurance.

Application Process:

  1. Online Application: You can submit your application online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
  2. Paper Application: If you're unable to apply online, you can submit a paper application by mail or in person at a Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate.
  3. Application Fee: The application fee for a Canada Visitor Visa is CAD 100 (approximately USD 75).
  4. Biometric Fee: The biometric fee is CAD 85 (approximately USD 65) for adults and CAD 39 (approximately USD 29) for children.

Processing Times:

Processing times for visitor visa applications can vary depending on the volume of applications and the complexity of your case. Here are some general guidelines:

Tips and Reminders:

  1. Apply Early: It's recommended to apply at least 6-8 weeks before your planned trip to Canada to ensure sufficient processing time.
  2. Ensure Accuracy: Double-check your application for accuracy and completeness to avoid delays or rejection.
  3. Provide Supporting Documents: Make sure to provide all required supporting documents to support your application.
  4. Check Your Status: Check your application status online to track the progress of your application.

I hope this information helps!