If you’re planning to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or short-term travel, understanding the cost of a visit visa is essential. The Canadian visit visa, officially known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), has specific fees and associated costs that applicants must pay during the process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the visit visa costs for Canada.
What is a Visit Visa for Canada?
A visit visa, or TRV, is required for foreign nationals who wish to enter Canada temporarily for purposes such as:
- Tourism and sightseeing.
- Visiting family or friends.
- Attending business meetings or events.
The visa allows you to stay in Canada for up to six months, depending on the conditions specified at entry.
How Much Does a Visit Visa for Canada Cost?
The standard application fee for a Canadian visit visa is 100 CAD (Canadian dollars) per person. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Additional costs may apply depending on your circumstances.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Breakdown of Fees for a Canadian Visit Visa
- Visa Application Fee:
- Cost: 100 CAD per applicant.
- This covers the processing of your application for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
- Biometric Fees:
- Cost: 85 CAD per person or 170 CAD for a family applying together.
- Biometric data (fingerprints and photo) is mandatory for most applicants and is submitted at a Visa Application Center (VAC).
- Visa Application Center (VAC) Fees:
- Cost: Varies by location.
- VACs may charge service fees for handling your application, such as document scanning and courier services.
- Passport Transmission Fees (if applicable):
- Cost: Varies.
- If you use a VAC or courier service to send your passport for visa stamping, additional charges apply.
- Optional Services:
- Some VACs offer additional services, such as SMS updates or document printing, for a small fee.
Are There Discounts for Families or Groups?
Yes, families applying together may save on biometric fees. Instead of paying 85 CAD per individual, families can pay a flat fee of 170 CAD, regardless of the number of members.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
How to Pay the Visit Visa Fee for Canada
The Canadian government provides multiple payment options for the visa fee:
- Online Payment:
- Pay via credit card or debit card through the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
- A payment receipt will be generated, which must be included with your application.
- In-Person Payment:
- Pay at a Visa Application Center (VAC) using cash, card, or other approved methods (varies by country).
- Bank Payment (if applicable):
- In some countries, designated banks may accept visa fee payments. Always confirm payment methods with your local VAC.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Travel Insurance:
- Though not part of the visa fee, you may need to purchase travel insurance as a condition of entry. Costs vary depending on the coverage.
- Courier Services:
- If you choose to have your documents delivered via courier, additional charges apply.
- Translation Services:
- If your documents are not in English or French, certified translation fees may apply.
- Flight Reservation and Accommodation Proof:
- While not a direct visa fee, you may incur costs for flight bookings and hotel reservations to meet application requirements.
Refund Policy for Canadian Visit Visa Fees
The visa application fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied or if you decide to withdraw your application. Biometric fees are also non-refundable. Always ensure your application is complete and accurate to avoid losing your fees.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Tips for Managing Visit Visa Costs
- Budget in Advance:
- Account for all associated fees, including biometric charges and optional VAC services, in your travel budget.
- Double-Check Requirements:
- Avoid unnecessary expenses by ensuring your application is complete before submission.
- Apply Early:
- Submit your application well ahead of your travel date to avoid the need for expedited services, which can increase costs.
- Keep Payment Receipts:
- Always retain proof of payment, as it is required for application processing.
Understanding the costs and fee structure for a Canadian visit visa helps ensure a smooth application process, allowing you to focus on planning your trip.
