By Sandeep Chaudhary
Canada Visit Visa for Nepali Citizens: All You Need to Know
If you’re a Nepali citizen planning to visit Canada for tourism, business, or to visit family or friends, you will need to apply for a Canada Visit Visa. This visa allows you to stay in Canada for a short duration. Whether you're visiting for leisure, attending business meetings, or joining family, this guide will help you understand the process, requirements, and steps involved in applying for a Canada Visit Visa.
1. Understanding the Canada Visit Visa
A Canada Visit Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows you to travel to Canada for a temporary stay. You can apply for this visa if you plan to visit Canada for one of the following reasons:
Tourism: To explore Canada’s famous attractions, natural beauty, and culture.
Family Visit: To visit relatives or family members residing in Canada.
Business: To attend business meetings, conferences, or engage in short-term business activities.
Other Temporary Purposes: Such as attending an event, receiving medical treatment, etc.
2. Passport Requirements
The first step in applying for a Canada Visit Visa is ensuring that your passport meets the required criteria:
Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the planned departure date from Canada.
Blank Pages: Your passport must have at least two blank pages available for visa stamps and other necessary endorsements.
It’s essential that your passport is valid and meets these basic requirements to avoid any delays in the application process.
3. Application Form
To apply for a Canada Visit Visa, you must complete the Visa Application Form (IMM 5257). This form will ask for your personal details, travel history, purpose of visit, and other relevant information. Be sure to fill out the form accurately, as any incorrect information could lead to delays or rejection.
You can complete the form online via the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) portal.
4. Invitation Letter (If Applicable)
If you are visiting family, friends, or attending a business event, an invitation letter from the host in Canada is required. This letter should include:
Host’s details: Full name, address, and contact information of the person or organization in Canada who is inviting you.
Purpose of Visit: An explanation of why you are visiting (family visit, business trip, tourism, etc.).
Dates of Visit: Specific travel dates, including your arrival and departure from Canada.
Accommodation: Information about where you will be staying during your visit (at a hotel, with the host, etc.).
Financial Responsibility: Confirmation of who will cover the expenses (whether you are funding the trip or your sponsor is covering it).
5. Financial Proof
You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support your stay in Canada. This can include:
Bank Statements: Recent bank statements (typically from the last six months) showing that you have enough money to cover your travel, accommodation, and living expenses during your stay in Canada.
Proof of Income: Employment letter, salary slips, or tax returns.
Proof of Assets: If applicable, provide proof of assets like property ownership, fixed deposits, etc., to strengthen your application.
If your visit is sponsored by someone in Canada (family member, business partner, etc.), they must submit their financial documents as well.
6. Travel Itinerary and Hotel Reservations
As part of your application, you need to provide:
Flight Details: A confirmed flight reservation showing your travel dates to and from Canada.
Hotel Bookings: If you are staying in a hotel, provide confirmation of hotel reservations for your entire stay.
Travel Plans: A brief itinerary outlining what you plan to do during your visit in Canada, such as sightseeing, attending business meetings, etc.
These details help prove that you have a well-planned visit and that you intend to return to Nepal once your visit is over.
7. Biometrics (If Required)
In some cases, you may be required to submit biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph, as part of your visa application. This is generally required for applicants between the ages of 14 and 79, though the requirements may vary depending on the application.
Once your application is submitted, you will receive instructions on how to book an appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC) for biometrics collection.
8. Health and Medical Requirements (If Applicable)
Though not always required, some applicants may need to undergo a medical examination to prove they are in good health. This is typically required for applicants planning to stay longer or for individuals from certain countries or regions.
You may be asked to undergo a medical examination if your stay is expected to exceed six months, or if you have traveled to countries with a high risk of infectious diseases.
9. Application Fees
The visa application fee is required when submitting your application. The fee amount can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and any additional services required (e.g., biometrics). You can check the official website of the Canadian government for the most current fee details.
10. Submit Your Application
Once you have completed the form, gathered all supporting documents, and paid the visa fee, you can submit your application online through the IRCC portal or at the Visa Application Center (VAC) in Nepal. If submitting online, you’ll be asked to upload all necessary documents in digital form. If submitting in person, you’ll need to provide physical copies of all documents.
11. Wait for Processing
After submitting your application, it will be processed by the Canadian embassy. Processing times for a Canada Visit Visa can vary, but it usually takes about 10 to 15 business days. During peak seasons, the processing time may be longer.
You can check the status of your application through your IRCC account if you applied online.
12. Visa Approval and Travel to Canada
If your visa application is approved, you will receive your Canada Visit Visa in your passport. You may be required to present the visa and supporting documents when you arrive in Canada. Ensure you carry all necessary documentation, including your passport, visa, flight tickets, and accommodation details.
