Visas and documents • Canada
Canada visitor visa: visiting family and friends
A visit to relatives or friends may require a visitor visa, also called a temporary resident visa or TRV. Visa or eTA requirements depend on your passport and how you travel; an eTA is not a universal visa substitute.
Procedure
Visitor visa
Decision
Individual assessment
Reviewed
22.09.2026
Purpose and eligibility
An invitation explains the relationship, purpose, dates, accommodation and payment arrangements. The actual host writes it. IRCC assesses the applicant and may request more evidence; an invitation does not guarantee a visa. This is a visitor trip, not permission to work in Canada.
Documents to prepare
This preparation checklist is indicative. Final requirements depend on nationality, status and application location; follow the competent authority’s instructions.
- Passport and evidence of lawful residence in the country where you apply.
- Application form, photograph and payment confirmations required by the receiving authority.
- Evidence of the purpose of travel, funding, accommodation and insurance required for your procedure.
- Host letter with contact information, relationship to the applicant, stay plans and responsibility for costs.
- Evidence of the host’s status and relationship where required; the applicant’s own financial and personal documents.
- Personalised IRCC checklist, translations and biometrics under the applicable instructions.
Preparation and application steps
- Establish your travel purpose, nationality, current status and the competent consulate.
- Check that names, dates, addresses and the purpose of travel agree across all documents.
- Follow the official appointment, submission and biometric procedures; retain confirmations and your application reference.
Processing times and costs
Appointment availability, document preparation and application processing are separate stages. Check current times and fees for your country and application location. Government fees, translations, insurance and document preparation services are separate costs where applicable. Neither an issue date nor a favourable decision can be guaranteed. IRCC lists the visitor visa fee from CAD 100; biometrics and other applicable costs may be additional.
Frequently asked questions
Are visitor and tourist visas different categories?
Both purposes generally use the visitor visa / TRV category. The explanation and evidence of the trip differ, rather than the visa category name.
Does an invitation replace checks of finances and travel purpose?
No. The host explains their support, but the applicant must meet IRCC requirements and provide the evidence requested.
Related visa guides
Official sources
Checked against official sources on 22 September 2026.
- IRCC • Visitor visa / TRV
- IRCC • letter of invitation
- IRCC • applying for a visitor visa
- IRCC • processing times
- IRCC • authorized representatives
You can prepare and submit an application yourself using IRCC instructions. If you need paid immigration advice or representation, verify the professional’s authorisation through the official register linked below.
Choose a convenient messenger to receive a consultation or call us during business hours.
Monday — Friday 9:00-17:00 (Warsaw time)
We’re here to help! We accept requests via messengers 24/7 • Response during business hours (from Monday)