Updated on December 9, 2025 by canadian immigration experts
Guide To Applying For A Visitors Visa Canada
When it comes to fostering a family connection between international students in Canada and their parents back home, obtaining a visitor visa is a crucial step. This comprehensive guide is designed to navigate the intricacies of this process, ensuring that parents can comfortably visit their children studying abroad.
The visitor visa is a golden ticket that permits parents to spend up to six months in Canada. Should they wish to extend their stay beyond this period, an application for an extension can be submitted. To optimize the success of such applications, it’s essential to provide the necessary supporting documents.
This guide serves as a step-by-step tutorial for international students who are eager to apply for a visitor visa on behalf of their parents.
Before delving into the application process, it’s essential to grasp the eligibility criteria that parents must meet:
- Valid Travel Document: Possession of a valid travel document, usually a passport, is a fundamental requirement.
- Good Health: Applicants must be in good health, and any medical issues should be declared as required.
- Clean Record: An absence of criminal or immigration-related convictions is a key factor.
- Strong Ties to Home Country: Parents must convince the immigration officer that they have strong ties to their home country, ensuring their intention to return.
- Intention to Depart Canada: Similarly, parents need to convince the immigration officer that they have no intention of overstaying their visa and will depart Canada at the end of their visit.
- Sufficient Funds: Demonstrating the financial capacity to cover travel expenses and support their stay in Canada is crucial.
Applying For Visitor Visa For Parents Of International Students
Compiling Essential Supporting Documents
Enhancing the application with well-organized and accurate supporting documents significantly boosts its strength:
- Invitation Letter: This should be a heartfelt invitation from the international student to their parents, stating the purpose of the visit, duration of stay, and details about accommodations and departure plans.
- Parent(s) Bank Account Statement (Optional but Highly Recommended): Including this can provide insight into the financial stability of the parents. It should include bank name, contact information, account transactions, and balances for the past six months.
- Parent(s) Employment Letter (if applicable): If the parent is employed, a letter from their employer can demonstrate their commitment to returning home. It should mention the parent’s full name, date of birth, job start date, job description, current salary, and contact information for the manager and employer. The letter should be printed on official company letterhead, signed by the employer, and dated within three months of the application.
- Family Information Form (IMM 5645): This form provides essential details about family members and their relationships.
- Proof of Your Status in Canada:
- For Students: Include a copy of your study permit and an official enrollment letter from your educational institution.
- For Post-Graduates: Provide your post-graduate work permit and an employment letter from your employer.
Application Process: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Embarking on the application process involves navigating the following steps:
- Register and Log In: Access the new IRCC portal and create an account. Log in using your credentials.
- Complete the Online Form: Fill out the online application form with accurate information.
- Upload Documents: Prepare and upload all required documents, including the invitation letter, bank account statement, employment letter, family information form, and proof of your status in Canada.
- Pay Processing Fee: Submit the processing fee of $100 using credit cards like Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express®, JCB®, or UnionPay®.
- Include Biometric Fee: To prevent delays, consider depositing the $85 biometric fee along with the processing fee.
The Importance of Due Diligence
While this guide provides comprehensive information, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and stay updated with the latest requirements before embarking on the application process. Remember, regulations can change, and up-to-date information is vital.
Concluding Visitor Visa Application Process
In conclusion, enabling parents of international students to visit and share in their children’s educational journeys is a meaningful experience. By carefully adhering to eligibility criteria, compiling the necessary documents, and navigating the application process strategically, parents can embrace their children’s academic and cultural pursuits while fostering strong family bonds across borders.
