🔍 TRV vs Super Visa Overview
Understanding which visa type is right for your family situation is crucial for a successful application. Here are the two main options:
| Feature | TRV (Visitor Visa) | Super Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Who Can Apply | All eligible family members | Parents & grandparents only |
| Stay Duration | Up to 6 months per entry | Up to 5 years per entry |
| Validity Period | Up to 10 years (multiple entry) | Up to 10 years (multiple entry) |
| Medical Insurance | Recommended | Mandatory ($100,000 minimum) |
| Income Requirements | Standard financial support | Higher income thresholds |
| Processing Time | 2-8 weeks | 3-12 weeks |
🎯 Which Should You Choose?
Choose TRV if: You’re inviting siblings, children, extended family, or need a faster processing time.
Choose Super Visa if: You’re inviting parents/grandparents who want to stay longer than 6 months and you meet the financial requirements.
✅ Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Canada family visit visa, applicants must meet several key requirements:
Basic Requirements for All Applicants
- Valid passport from a visa-required country (minimum 6 months validity recommended)
- Clean criminal record – no serious criminal convictions
- Good health – may require medical exam for certain countries or long stays
- Sufficient funds – either personal or through sponsor support
- Intent to return – strong ties to home country
Additional Super Visa Requirements
- Relationship proof: Birth certificate showing parent-child relationship
- Medical insurance: Minimum $100,000 coverage from Canadian insurer
- Higher income threshold: Sponsor must meet LICO + 30% requirements
- Written commitment: Host must provide financial support commitment
Countries Requiring Visitor Visa
Citizens from most countries need a TRV. Check the official IRCC list to confirm if your country requires a visa.
📄 Required Documents – Complete Checklist
Proper documentation is critical for visa approval. Here’s a comprehensive list organized by category:
🔹 Identity & Travel Documents
- Valid passport (original pages with stamps)
- 2 recent passport-size photos (IRCC specifications)
- Copy of previous Canadian visas (if applicable)
- National ID card (if available)
🔹 Application Forms
- IMM 5257: Application for Temporary Resident Visa
- IMM 5645: Family Information Form (if required)
- IMM 5484: Document Checklist (country-specific)
- Use the online portal for the most current forms
🔹 Relationship & Purpose Documents
- Invitation letter from Canadian host (see template below)
- Birth certificates proving family relationship
- Marriage certificates (if applicable)
- Family photos and communication records
- Detailed travel itinerary with dates
🔹 Financial Documents
- Applicant’s bank statements: Last 6-12 months with transaction history
- Host’s financial proof: Pay stubs, employment letter, tax returns (NOA)
- Bank letter: Confirming account standing and average balance
- Investment/property documents: Additional asset proof
🔹 Employment & Ties Documents
- Employment letter with approved leave of absence
- Business registration (if self-employed)
- Property ownership or rental agreements
- Educational enrollment (if applicable)
- Family responsibilities proof (dependents, elderly care)
⚠️ Document Quality Requirements
All non-English/French documents must be translated by certified translators. Ensure all documents are clear, recent, and show consistent information across all forms.
✉️ Invitation Letter Template & Guidelines
A well-crafted invitation letter significantly improves approval chances. Here’s a comprehensive template and guidelines:
Essential Elements to Include
- Host’s complete contact information and Canadian status
- Visitor’s complete information and relationship
- Purpose and duration of visit
- Financial arrangements and accommodations
- Supporting documents reference
📝 Complete Invitation Letter Template
[Date] Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Visa Section Subject: Invitation Letter for [Visitor’s Full Name] Dear Visa Officer, I, [Your Full Name], am writing to formally invite my [relationship – mother/father/sister/brother], [Visitor’s Full Name], passport number [Passport Number], date of birth [DOB], to visit me in Canada. ABOUT THE HOST (Me): • Full Name: [Your Full Name] • Date of Birth: [Your DOB] • Status in Canada: [Canadian Citizen/Permanent Resident/Work Permit Holder] • Address: [Complete Canadian Address] • Phone: [Phone Number] • Email: [Email Address] • Occupation: [Job Title] at [Company Name] • Annual Income: [Annual Income] CAD ABOUT THE VISITOR: • Full Name: [Visitor’s Full Name] • Date of Birth: [Visitor’s DOB] • Passport Number: [Passport Number] • Address in [Home Country]: [Complete Address] • Relationship to Host: [Relationship] • Occupation: [Visitor’s Occupation] VISIT DETAILS: • Purpose of Visit: Family visit and tourism • Planned Arrival Date: [Date] • Planned Departure Date: [Date] • Duration of Stay: [Number] days/weeks • Accommodation: Visitor will stay at my residence at [Address] • Financial Support: [I will cover all expenses / Visitor will cover own expenses / Shared responsibility] FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS: I will provide the following support during the visit: • Accommodation at my residence (no cost) • Daily meals and local transportation • [Emergency medical expenses / Travel insurance assistance] • Total estimated support: $[Amount] CAD SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS ATTACHED: 1. Copy of my Canadian passport/PR card/work permit 2. Employment letter and recent pay stubs 3. Notice of Assessment (NOA) for recent tax year 4. Bank statements (last 3 months) 5. Proof of residence (lease agreement/property deed) 6. Proof of relationship (birth certificate/family documents) I confirm that [Visitor’s Name] will return to [Home Country] before the authorized stay expires. I understand my responsibilities as the host and will ensure compliance with all Canadian immigration requirements. Please feel free to contact me if you require any additional information. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Printed Name] [Date]💡 Pro Tips for Invitation Letters
- Be specific: Include exact dates, addresses, and financial amounts
- Stay consistent: Ensure all information matches other documents
- Show stability: Demonstrate your established life in Canada
- Include extras: Add travel itinerary and local activities planned
💰 Proof of Funds & Financial Requirements
Financial documentation is one of the most scrutinized aspects of visitor visa applications. Here’s what you need to know:
Minimum Fund Requirements
| Stay Duration | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 week | $1,000 CAD | $1,500 CAD | $2,500 CAD |
| 2 weeks | $1,500 CAD | $2,250 CAD | $3,500 CAD |
| 1 month | $2,500 CAD | $3,500 CAD | $5,000 CAD |
| 3 months | $5,000 CAD | $7,500 CAD | $12,000 CAD |
Super Visa Income Requirements (2026)
Host must meet LICO + 30% minimum income:
- 1 person: $33,277 CAD
- 2 persons: $41,416 CAD
- 3 persons: $50,903 CAD
- 4 persons: $61,814 CAD
- 5 persons: $70,106 CAD
- Each additional person: +$7,897 CAD
Required Financial Documents
For the Visitor:
- Bank statements: 6-12 months showing regular activity
- Bank letter: Confirming account standing and average balance
- Employment income: Salary certificates, pay slips
- Asset documentation: Property deeds, investment portfolios
- Tax returns: Last 2-3 years showing income consistency
For the Canadian Host:
- Employment letter: Confirming position, salary, and employment duration
- Pay stubs: Recent 3-6 months
- Notice of Assessment (NOA): Recent tax year
- Bank statements: 3-6 months showing financial stability
- T4 slips: Employment income documentation
⚠️ Red Flags to Avoid
- Large unexplained deposits: Sudden large amounts without documentation
- Borrowed money: Temporary funds that must be returned
- Inconsistent employment: Income that doesn’t match bank deposits
- New bank accounts: Recently opened accounts with little history
📝 Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow this detailed process to ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly:
Phase 1: Pre-Application (2-4 weeks before)
- Determine visa type: TRV or Super Visa based on relationship and needs
- Check processing times: Visit IRCC website for current estimates
- Gather documents: Start collecting all required documentation
- Get translations: Translate non-English/French documents
- Prepare invitation letter: Host should prepare comprehensive letter
Phase 2: Application Submission
- Create IRCC account: Register at IRCC portal
- Complete forms online: Fill all required forms accurately
- Upload documents: Scan and upload all supporting documents
- Pay fees: Application fee + biometrics fee (if required)
- Submit application: Review and submit complete application
Phase 3: Post-Submission
- Biometrics appointment: Schedule and attend if required
- Medical exam: Complete if requested by IRCC
- Additional documents: Respond quickly to any requests
- Track application: Monitor status through IRCC account
- Passport submission: Submit passport for visa if approved
Current Application Fees (2026)
| Service | Fee (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (single entry) | $100 |
| Visitor Visa (multiple entry) | $100 |
| Super Visa | $100 |
| Biometrics | $85 |
| Medical Exam | $200-$500 (varies by country) |
💡 Expert Tips to Maximize Approval Chances
These proven strategies can significantly improve your application’s success rate:
🎯 Strengthen Your Profile
- Show strong home ties: Stable employment, property ownership, family responsibilities
- Demonstrate travel history: Previous international travel with proper compliance
- Maintain consistent finances: Regular income and expenses for 6+ months
- Plan realistic visits: Reasonable duration that matches your circumstances
📋 Documentation Best Practices
- Quality over quantity: Submit relevant, high-quality documents rather than everything you have
- Organize systematically: Label documents clearly and follow IRCC order
- Explain anomalies: Address any unusual circumstances with cover letters
- Update information: Ensure all documents are recent and current
💰 Financial Strategy Tips
- Build financial history: Maintain steady bank activity for 6+ months before applying
- Show source of funds: Document the origin of large deposits or savings
- Demonstrate ongoing income: Show consistent employment or business income
- Host support clarity: Clearly define what expenses the host will cover
📅 Timing Considerations
- Apply early: Submit applications 2-3 months before intended travel
- Avoid peak seasons: Applications during summer months may take longer
- Consider holidays: Factor in processing delays during holiday periods
- Plan for delays: Don’t book non-refundable tickets until visa is approved
⚠️ Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Learn from others’ experiences by avoiding these frequent application errors:
🚫 Documentation Errors
- Incomplete forms: Always double-check all fields are completed accurately
- Inconsistent information: Ensure dates, names, and details match across all documents
- Poor quality scans: Submit clear, readable document copies
- Missing signatures: Sign and date all required forms and letters
💸 Financial Mistakes
- Showing borrowed funds: Don’t deposit large amounts just before applying
- Insufficient bank history: Provide at least 6 months of banking activity
- Unrealistic budgets: Ensure proposed expenses match available funds
- No source documentation: Explain the origin of significant deposits
📝 Application Strategy Errors
- Wrong visa type: Choose TRV vs Super Visa based on actual needs
- Unrealistic travel plans: Match visit duration to your circumstances
- Generic invitation letters: Customize letters with specific details
- Ignoring processing times: Apply with adequate time before travel
🔄 Post-Submission Mistakes
- Not tracking status: Regularly check application status online
- Slow response to requests: Reply immediately to IRCC requests for additional information
- Changing travel plans: Notify IRCC of significant changes to travel dates
- Assuming approval: Don’t make firm travel arrangements until visa is issued
⏱️ Processing Times & Status Updates
Understanding current processing times helps you plan your application timeline effectively:
Current Processing Times by Region (2026)
| Region/Country | TRV Processing | Super Visa Processing | Biometrics Wait |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | 60-90 days | 90-120 days | 3-7 days |
| China | 45-75 days | 75-105 days | 2-5 days |
| Philippines | 30-60 days | 60-90 days | 3-10 days |
| Nigeria | 75-105 days | 105-135 days | 5-15 days |
| Pakistan | 60-90 days | 90-120 days | 3-7 days |
| Other Countries | 14-30 days | 30-60 days | 1-5 days |
📊 Factors Affecting Processing Time
- Application completeness: Complete applications process faster
- Country of residence: Some countries have longer standard processing times
- Additional verification: Complex cases may require additional review
- Seasonal volume: Summer applications typically take longer
- Medical/security checks: May add 2-8 weeks to processing time
How to Check Application Status
- Log into your IRCC online account
- Check for messages or document requests
- Use the application status tool with your UCI number
- Contact VAC if applying through Visa Application Centre
✔️ Final Application Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure your application is complete before submission:
📋 Pre-Submission Checklist
- Determined correct visa type (TRV vs Super Visa)
- Completed all application forms accurately
- Gathered valid passport with 6+ months validity
- Obtained 2 recent passport-size photos (IRCC specs)
- Prepared comprehensive invitation letter
- Collected 6+ months of bank statements
- Obtained employment letter with leave approval
- Gathered host’s financial documentation
- Compiled proof of relationship documents
- Created detailed travel itinerary
- Translated all non-English/French documents
- Organized documents in IRCC order
- Reviewed all information for consistency
- Calculated and prepared application fees
🎯 Super Visa Additional Items
- Confirmed host meets LICO + 30% income requirement
- Obtained private medical insurance quote ($100k+ coverage)
- Gathered birth certificates proving parent-child relationship
- Prepared written financial support commitment
- Compiled host’s citizenship/PR documentation
📤 Submission & Follow-up
- Created IRCC online account
- Uploaded all documents in correct format
- Paid all required fees
- Submitted complete application
- Scheduled biometrics appointment (if required)
- Set up application status monitoring
- Prepared for potential additional document requests
🚀 Quick Success Tips
- Apply early: Start process 3+ months before intended travel
- Be thorough: Complete applications are processed faster
- Stay organized: Keep digital copies of all submitted documents
- Monitor regularly: Check application status weekly
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Canada family visit visas:
Q: What’s the difference between single and multiple entry visas?
Single Entry: Allows one entry to Canada. Once you leave, you need a new visa to return.
Multiple Entry: Allows multiple entries during validity period (up to 10 years). Most visitor visas are issued as multiple entry at the same cost.
Q: Can I extend my stay once in Canada?
Yes, you can apply to extend your stay before your authorized period expires. Apply at least 30 days before your current status expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and must meet specific requirements.
Q: What if my application is refused?
If refused, you’ll receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply immediately after addressing the concerns mentioned in the refusal letter. There’s no waiting period for reapplication.
Q: Do I need travel insurance for a regular visitor visa?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for TRV but highly recommended. For Super Visa, private medical insurance with minimum $100,000 coverage from a Canadian insurer is mandatory.
Q: Can I work in Canada on a visitor visa?
No, visitor visas do not permit work in Canada. Engaging in unauthorized work can result in deportation and future inadmissibility. You need a separate work permit to work in Canada.
Q: How long can I stay in Canada on each visit?
TRV: Usually up to 6 months per entry (as determined by border officer)
Super Visa: Up to 5 years per entry for eligible applicants
Q: What happens if I overstay my authorized period?
Overstaying can result in deportation and a ban from entering Canada. If you need to stay longer, apply for an extension before your current status expires. Overstaying even by one day can have serious consequences.
Q: Can I include my spouse and children in my application?
Each person needs their own application and fee. However, you can submit applications together and reference each other. Children under 18 can be included in a parent’s application in some cases.
