Canada Immigration Visa Application Process and Tips to Improve Approval Chances

Canada has long been an ideal destination for those seeking to immigrate, offering a high quality of life, a well-developed education and healthcare system, along with abundant career opportunities. However, applying for a Canadian immigration visa is not a simple process. In this article, Phan Immigration will provide you with detailed information on the required documents and procedures for applying for a Canadian immigration visa, along with practical tips to help improve your chances of approval. These guidelines will help you prepare thoroughly for your journey to settle in this beautiful country.

Common Types of Canadian Visas Today

Before preparing your documents and applying for a Canadian immigration visa, it is essential to understand the different types of visas available. Canada offers various visa categories depending on the applicant’s purpose and circumstances, each with its own specific documentation requirements. Below is a detailed overview of the two most common types of Canadian visas:

Temporary Resident Visas (TRV)

A Temporary Resident Visa is suitable for individuals wishing to enter Canada for short-term purposes, including tourism, business, study, or visiting family. To apply for a temporary visa, applicants must demonstrate the purpose of their trip and their ability to return to their home country once the visa expires. Popular categories of temporary visas include:

• Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa): For individuals traveling to Canada for tourism, sightseeing, and exploring popular destinations.
• Super Visa: Designed for parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing them to stay in Canada for up to 2 years at a time.
• Study Permit: For international students planning to study at designated educational institutions in Canada, requiring a letter of acceptance from a recognized school.
• Business Visa: For individuals traveling to Canada to engage in business activities, personal work, or as part of a business delegation.
• Temporary Work Visa: For individuals with a job offer in Canada, allowing them to work for a period not exceeding 6 months.
  Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): For individuals needing to enter Canada for special purposes who do not meet the standard TRV criteria, typically granted for short durations, such as attending conferences.

Permanent Resident Visas in Canada

A Canadian permanent resident visa is an ideal choice for individuals who wish to build a long-term life in Canada. Below are some of the most common types of Canadian permanent resident visas:

• Investor Immigration Program: For investors with a minimum net worth of CAD 800,000 and a commitment to invest at least CAD 400,000 into the Canadian economy.
• Start-up Visa Program: For entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas. Applicants must have a minimum net worth of CAD 200,000, commit to owning and operating a business in Canada, and secure support from a designated organization.
• Self-Employed Visa: For individuals with experience in arts, culture, entertainment, or sports, and who have earned significant income from these activities. Note: Canada has suspended accepting new self-employed visa applications until 2027.
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program: For skilled workers whose professions are in demand in Quebec and who have proficiency in French.
• Family Sponsorship Program: Allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or dependent children for permanent residency in Canada.
• Express Entry Program: For skilled workers wishing to settle permanently in Canada, including programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Allows foreign nationals to immigrate to Canada based on the specific needs of individual provinces, which may include pathways through study, work, or business investment.

Required Documents for a Canadian Visa Application

Appropriate Visa Application Form

When applying for a Canadian visa, you must complete the correct visa application form corresponding to the type of visa you are applying for. This form can be downloaded from the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Ensure that you select the right form based on your travel purpose (tourism, business, study, or immigration) and accurately fill in all required information, including personal details, travel history, and the reason for your visa application.

Proof of Payment for Canadian Visa Application Fees

When applying for a Canadian visa, you are required to pay the applicable fees and attach the payment receipt to your application. The fee amount varies depending on your travel purpose. There are two main fees to be paid: the application processing fee and the biometrics fee.

Proof of Clean Criminal Record

You must demonstrate that you have no criminal record and are not a security risk to Canadian society. To prove this, you should obtain a police clearance certificate from your country of residence. In some cases, you may also need to provide police certificates from any country where you have lived for more than six months.

Proof of Good Health through a Medical Examination

To apply for a Canadian visa, you must show that you are in good health by undergoing a medical examination. This exam must be conducted by an IRCC-designated doctor, known as a Panel Physician. The medical results will be sent directly to IRCC.
Medical exams are generally required if you plan to stay in Canada for more than six months or if your job involves working closely with others.

Passport Photos Meeting Canadian Visa Photo Requirements

You must provide two passport photos that meet the official photo requirements set by the Canadian government. If the photos do not comply with the specified standards, your application may be refused. To ensure the photos meet all guidelines, it is recommended to bring the official photo specifications when visiting the photography studio.

Proof of Financial Capacity

A key requirement for a Canadian visa application is demonstrating that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and any accompanying family members during your stay in Canada. You can submit documents such as bank statements, a letter of employment stating your annual salary, or proof of financial support from a sponsor in Canada.

Proof That You Will Return to Your Home Country After Your Canadian Visa Expires

You will need to demonstrate that you intend to return to your home country once your Canadian visa expires. This can be supported by providing documents such as:

• A copy of your employment contract or an official job offer letter stating that you are a permanent employee, including your expected return-to-work date and your position within the company.
• Proof of property ownership or lease agreements in your home country, such as title deeds or rental contracts.
• Evidence of family obligations, such as caring for children, elderly relatives, or individuals with disabilities who require your support.

Personal Identification and Civil Status Documents

You must provide personal identification documents such as your national ID card, birth certificate, marriage certificate, or divorce certificate, depending on your family status. These documents help verify your civil status and are mandatory during the visa application review process.

A Letter of Explanation Outlining the Purpose of Your Trip to Canada

When applying for a Canadian visa, you are required to submit a letter of explanation stating the purpose of your trip. This letter should clearly outline your reasons for traveling to Canada, your intended length of stay, accommodation arrangements, and financial plans during your visit. This is an important opportunity to explain the purpose of your trip in detail and to assure that you will comply with the terms and conditions of the visa.

Support Letter/Invitation Letter to Canada

If you are visiting Canada to see family or friends, you will need to provide an invitation letter from your host in Canada. This letter must be written by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and include their details (full name, address, residency status) as well as yours (full name, relationship, intended duration of stay). The inviter must also provide a copy of a document proving their residency status in Canada.

Steps to Apply for a Canadian Visa

The process of applying for a Canadian visa can be complex and requires careful preparation. Below are the specific steps to help you follow the correct procedure and increase your chances of a successful application.

Guide to Submitting a Visa Application In-Person

To submit your Canadian visa application in person, follow these detailed steps:

Step 1: Determine the type of visa you need to apply for
The first step is to identify the visa type that suits your purpose of travel. Research the requirements, necessary documents, and applicable fees for your chosen visa type. You can find detailed information on the website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Step 2: Complete the visa application form
You need to fill out the visa application form online or download the form, complete it, and bring it to the Visa Application Center (VAC) for submission. Make sure you provide all the required supporting documents according to IRCC’s checklist.

Step 3: Schedule an appointment
After submitting your application, schedule an appointment to have your photo taken and biometrics collected. You will receive appointment confirmation via email. If you are not required to provide biometrics, simply visit the VAC with your complete documents and necessary fees.

Step 4: Pay the required fees
Once your application is complete, you must pay the visa application fee and the biometric fee (if applicable). You can make the payment online or at the VAC on your appointment day.

Step 5: Submit your application at the Visa Application Center (VAC)
If you are not applying online, bring your complete application package to the VAC for submission. Upon submission, you will receive a receipt and a tracking number to monitor the progress of your application.

Step 6: Track Your Application Status
After submission, you will receive email notifications regarding the progress of your application. You may also receive SMS updates if this service is available at your local VAC.

Step 7: Collect Your Passport
Once a decision has been made on your visa, you can collect your passport and related documents at the VAC. If you prefer to receive your passport by mail, you can request courier service and must provide the service receipt from the VAC.

Guide to Submitting a Canadian Visa Application Online

Here are the steps to apply for a Canadian visa online:

Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa
First, you need to determine the type of visa that suits your travel purpose. Check the requirements and necessary documents for each visa category on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This helps you understand the conditions and applicable fees.

Step 2: Complete the Visa Application Form
You can start your visa application online by filling out the form on the IRCC website. Ensure that you provide all required information and supporting documents according to the specific type of visa you are applying for.

Step 3: Schedule a Biometrics Appointment
After submitting your visa application online, if required, you will need to schedule an appointment for biometric data collection (photo and fingerprints) at the Visa Application Center (VAC). You will receive an appointment confirmation email with details on the date, time, and location.

Step 4: Pay the Required Fees
Once you have completed the application form, you must pay the visa application fee and the biometrics fee (if applicable). These fees will be outlined on the IRCC website, and you can make payment online. You will receive a payment receipt upon completion.

Step 5: Visit the Visa Application Center (VAC)
Once you have completed the application and payment process, you need to visit the VAC to submit the required documents, including your passport and payment receipt. If you are required to provide biometrics, you will receive a confirmation receipt after completing the procedure at the VAC.

Step 6: Track Your Application
After submission, you can track your application status through your MyCIC account or regularly check your email for updates from IRCC regarding your visa decision. You will also receive instructions if additional information or documents are required.

Step 7: Submit Your Passport Upon Request
When IRCC has made a decision on your visa, you will receive a Passport Request Letter. You must bring your passport and the required documents to the VAC to complete the final steps of the process.

Guide to Submitting a Visa Application by Email

Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa
First, you need to identify the type of visa that matches your travel purpose and check the specific requirements and documents to submit. Visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to review detailed instructions for various visa types, such as Temporary Resident Visa, Study Permit, Work Permit, and travel documents for permanent residents.

Step 2: Start the Application Process
Download the visa application form and the supporting document checklist based on your travel purpose from the IRCC website. Complete the electronic form, then print it on high-quality paper and submit it along with the required documents.
Note: The printed forms must be clear and free from smudges. If you are unable to provide all the documents listed by IRCC, you must complete and attach a waiver form along with your application.

Step 3: Prepare and Send the Application by Email
Your application package should include the following documents:

1. Completed visa application form.
2. CVAC Mail-in Application Checklist.
3. Signed consent form, passport, and two passport photos.
4. Supporting documents and a copy of the biographical data page of your passport.
5. Proof of payment for the Canadian government application fee and biometric fee (if applicable).
6. VAC service fee receipt in the form of a bank transfer slip or credit/debit card payment confirmation.

You must send the complete application in a sealed envelope to the designated Visa Application Center (VAC) address.

Step 4: Schedule a Biometrics Appointment
After submitting your application by email, check whether you are required to provide biometrics. If required, you will receive an instruction letter and must schedule an appointment at the VAC within 10 business days.

Step 5: Pay the Required Fees
If you have not yet paid the applicable fees when submitting your application, you can pay them at the Visa Application Center (VAC) when attending your biometric appointment.

Step 6: Track Your Application
Once your application is received at the VAC, you will receive an email notification with your application tracking number. You can track the progress of your application through the IRCC system, or via email and SMS updates if available.

Step 7: Collect Your Passport
After a decision has been made on your visa application, you will receive an email notification to collect your passport or to arrange delivery via courier service. To collect your passport at the VAC, you must bring your VAC service receipt and a valid identification document. You may also authorize someone else to collect your passport on your behalf; the authorized person must present an authorization letter along with the required documents.

Canadian Visa Fees

The biometric fee is CAD 85.00 per person, CAD 170.00 for families of two or more people, and CAD 255.00 for groups of three or more applicants. This fee includes the service charge of the Visa Application Center (VAC) for handling and forwarding your application package. (Service fees effective from January 2, 2025).

Phan Immigration Supports Fast and Efficient Completion of Your Canadian Visa Application

Phan Immigration is a trusted and government-licensed Canadian immigration consulting firm, specializing in providing personalized immigration solutions tailored to each client’s specific needs. Below are the services we offer to help you achieve your immigration goals with ease:

• Experienced Team of Immigration Experts: With over 15 years of experience, Phan Immigration’s consultants are licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), ensuring high-quality and professional services.
• Personalized Consulting Services: We offer a wide range of visa solutions, including study visas, tourist visas, work permits, and long-term immigration programs such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, and family sponsorships — all tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
• Strong Network of Partners: Phan Immigration works closely with immigration lawyers, economic advisors, and businesses in Canada, supporting clients in integrating smoothly and advancing their careers in the country.
• Commitment to Transparency and Accountability: We guarantee clear, detailed information at every step of the process and take full responsibility for every stage of your application, ensuring peace of mind and trust in our services.

FAQ on Canadian Immigration Visa Application Process

Where can I submit my Canadian visa application in Vietnam?

Depending on the application method, the submission location will vary.

• If you choose to apply online, the entire process will be completed through the IRCC system on the official website.
• If you choose to apply in person, your application will be processed at the Canada Visa Application Center (CVAC) at the following locations:
  • Hanoi: 2nd Floor, Hong Kong Tower Building, 243A De La Thanh Street, Lang Thuong Ward, Dong Da District.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: 9th Floor, Cienco 4 Building, 180 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3.

How long does it take to process a Canadian visa?

The processing time for a Canadian visa can vary depending on individual circumstances. Generally, it takes between 2 to 4 weeks, but in some cases, it may take longer.

The processing of your visa application will only begin once the Canadian consulate receives your complete application package. If additional documents are requested from you, the processing time may be delayed accordingly. To check the current visa processing times, you can visit the official website [here].

Tips to Increase the Approval Rate of Your Canadian Visa Application

To improve your chances of successfully obtaining a Canadian visa, it is crucial to prepare your application thoroughly and understand the common reasons for refusal.
Here are some practical tips and typical mistakes that may lead to visa rejection:

Tips for a successful Canadian visa application:

• Prepare a complete and detailed application, including strong financial proof, a clear and legitimate purpose of travel, and sufficient evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Vietnam after your trip.
  Clearly state the purpose of your trip, for example, by including an invitation letter for family visits or a job offer letter.
• Fill out the visa application form accurately and completely, ensuring all information is consistent and truthful.
• Prepare carefully for the interview (if required), dress appropriately, and answer questions briefly, honestly, and in alignment with your submitted documents.

Common reasons for Canadian visa refusals:

• Insufficient or unconvincing financial documents.
• Lack of evidence proving ties to your home country, such as family, property, or employment.
• Criminal record or other legal issues.
• Unclear purpose of travel or missing supporting documents.
• Mistakes or omissions in the application leading to inconsistencies.
• Poor travel history, including previous violations or overstays.
• Health issues that may affect your ability to travel.

Preparing a Canadian immigration visa application requires precision, thoroughness, and patience. A complete, clear, and properly prepared application will significantly increase your success rate. Moreover, being aware of the common reasons for rejection and equipping yourself with the right experience can help improve your chances of approval. Contact Phan Immigration today if you have any questions regarding the Canadian immigration visa application process!