APPLYING FOR CANADA VISITOR'S VISA AND ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IT

Application package

This application package consists of:

• an instruction guide and
• the required forms

The instruction guide is a tool that provides:

• the information you must know about this application before sending it to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)and
• assistance with how to fill out the forms and the required supporting documents

Read the instruction guide thoroughly and
then fill out each of the applicable forms

.

The forms are specifically designed with questions that will assist the processing of your application.

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Symbols used in this guide

This guide uses the following symbols to indicate information of particular importance.

What you must do to have your application processed.

Important information that you need to be aware of in order to avoid delays or other problems.

Where to get more information.

Note:

Tips that will assist you with this application.

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The application process

The instructions provided in this guide follow the basic steps you will need to know to complete your application.

1. Gather documents
2. Complete the application
3. Pay the fees
4. Mail the application

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Before you apply

Who may use this application?

This application guide is designed for persons who wish to apply for a temporary resident visa from outside Canada.

Note: The processing time of an application may vary from one visa office to another. Find out more about local application processing times by visiting our website.

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Who are Visitors?

Visitors are persons who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada, and are legally authorized to enter Canada to:

• visit Canada on holiday (vacation),
• visit family,
• conduct business, etc. 

Visitors are restricted in length of stay and subject to various conditions.

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Do I need a Temporary Resident Visa?

Persons who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada may require a visa to enter Canada. The requirement for a visa also applies to temporary residents who are transiting in Canada. For more information, see our list of Countries and territories whose citizens require visas in order to enter Canada as visitors.

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What is a Temporary Resident Visa?

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is an official document issued by a Canadian visa office that is placed in your passport to show that you have met the requirements for admission to Canada as a temporary resident (either as a visitor, a student, or a worker).

Important information: You must obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) before your departure. You cannot obtain one upon arrival in Canada.

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What are the requirements you must meet for a TRV?

You must show the officer that you meet the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and theImmigration and Refugee Protection Regulations and that you will be in Canada for a temporary stay.

You must also:

• satisfy an officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your stay,
• show that you have enough money to maintain yourself and your family members in Canada and to return home,
• not intend to work or study in Canada unless authorized to do so,
• be law abiding and have no record of criminal activity,
• not be a risk to the security of Canada,
• provide any additional document requested by the officer to establish your admissibility, and
• be in good health (complete a medical examination if required).

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What if I was previously granted permanent resident status?

If you have ever been granted permanent residence or landed immigrant status in Canada, you may still be a permanent resident.  CIC cannot issue you a TRV if you are a permanent resident. 

You may instead want to apply for Travel Document (Permanent Resident Abroad).  If you meet the requirements for a travel document, you can return to Canada as a permanent resident. 

If you no longer want to be a permanent resident, or if you know you do not meet the requirements to keep your permanent resident status, you can voluntarily give up (renounce) your permanent resident status in order to apply for a TRV.

You can apply for a TRV and renounce your permanent resident status at the same time by submitting both applications in the same envelope.

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Entry to Canada

Important information: Entry to Canada is a privilege, not a right. You must meet the necessary requirements and you may need a Temporary Resident Visa.

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Family members

Your family members include your spouse or common-law partner, your dependent children and any children that are their dependent children.

Spouse

Refers to either of the two persons (opposite or same sex) in a marriage legally recognized in the country in which it took place, as well as in Canada.

Common-law partner

Refers to a person who is living in a conjugal relationship with another person (opposite or same sex), and has done so continuously for a period of at least one year. A conjugal relationship exists when there is a significant degree of commitment between two people.

This can be shown with evidence that the couple share the same home, support each other financially and emotionally, have children together, or present themselves in public as a couple.

Common-law partners who have been in a conjugal relationship for at least one year but are unable to live together or appear in public together because of legal restrictions in their home country or who have been separated for reasons beyond their control (for example, civil war or armed conflict) may still qualify and should be included on the application.

Dependent children

Refers to the children of the applicant and those of the spouse or common-law partner, if applicable.

They must be:

• under the age of 19 and not have a spouse or common-law partner, or
• 19 years of age or older and unable to be financially self-sufficient since before the age of 19 due to a physical or mental condition.

Dependent child of a dependent child

Refers to children of dependent children of the applicant and those of the spouse or common-law partner, if applicable.

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Do I have to apply separately for my family members?

No, family members must complete their own application form (TRV, study or work permit). You may send their application forms along with yours in the same envelope and use one payment receipt for the total amount.

See section "Pay the Fee".

Your spouse or common-law partner and children must meet all the requirements for temporary residents to Canada.

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Are there medical requirements

You and your family members may be required to undergo a medical examination in order to come to Canada. Find out more by checking the Medical examination requirements for temporary residents.

You may either:

• undergo an upfront medical examination by contacting a Panel Physician; or
• wait until your application is reviewed and medical instructions are provided to you by the visa office.

Get the instructions to complete the medical examination.

Note: When medical results are submitted up-front, routine cases benefit from faster processing since CIC does not have to request them at a later date. If you choose to have an upfront medical exam, you must submit proof that you completed the medical examination with your application. Failure to do so may result in processing delays.

Are there biometric requirements?

You and your family members may be required to appear in person to have your fingerprints and photograph (biometric information) taken at a biometric collection service point.

All family members who require their fingerprints and photograph taken and who are applying together should go to the same biometric collection service point.

Find out if you are required to provide biometrics.

Important information

You must not have your biometric fingerprints and photo taken before you submit your application. You can have your biometrics collected:

• after you submit your application and have received a biometric instruction letter which will direct you to a list of points of service you may choose from; 
  or
• at the same time as you are submitting your application in person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

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Can I work or study during my stay in Canada?

Visitors are not allowed to work or study in Canada unless they are authorized to do so under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations. In many cases, a work or study permit will be required.

A temporary resident may also take a program of study up to six months duration without having to obtain a study permit.

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Information on Parent and Grandparent Super Visa

About the Super Visa

On November 4, 2011, CIC announced a temporary pause on all new sponsorship applications for the parents and grandparents category. With the introduction of this pause, CIC implemented a long-term Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for applicants seeking to visit their child or grandchild who is either a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

The single or multiple-entry Super Visa allows visitors to stay for a period of up to two years.

Important information: Applicants who do not require a visa must also submit an application to the visa office.

Who may apply for a Super Visa?

To apply for the Super Visa you must either be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada.

Note: You cannot include your dependent children in this application. Only your spouse or common-law partner is eligible to accompany you under this provision.

What must I do to obtain a SuperVisa?

In order to obtain a Super Visa, you will need to apply at a visa office and provide:

• evidence of the parent or grandparent relationship to the Canadian citizen or permanent resident you wish to visit (e.g. birth certificate, baptismal certificate or other official documents naming you as parent),
• a letter of invitation from your child or grandchild which includes arrangements for care and support,
• proof from your child or grandchild that he meets the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO)
• proof that you have private medical insurance valid for a minimum of one year from a Canadian insurance company and that:
  • covers health care, hospitalization and repatriation,
  • provides a minimum coverage of $100 000, and
  • is valid for each entry to Canada and be available for review by a port of entry officer.

Note: you may be required to appear in person to have your biometric fingerprints and photo (biometric information) taken at a biometric collection service point.

Note: You will be required to undergo a medical examination.

What must my child or grandchild do to meet the LICO minimum?

You child or grandchild’s income must meet or exceed the minimum necessary, as identified annually in the Income Table.

In the letter of invitation he must calculate his family size. This factor determines the amount of income required of him to provide care and support for you and your spouse, if applicable. He may use the table below to calculate the family size:

1. Your child or grandchild counts:
   • Himself
   • His spouse or common-law partner,
   • His dependent children,
   • any person he may have sponsored previously and for whom the sponsorship agreement and undertaking are still in effect.
2. He counts the number of persons he will be supporting :
   • You, and
   • Your spouse or common-law partner, if applicable.
3. He adds the number of persons covered by steps 1 and 2. The total represents his family size.
4. He looks at the LICO in the Income Table in this guide to determine if he meets the minimum required for his family size.
5. To demonstrate that he meets the minimum income required, your child or grandchild may include one of the documents listed in the Document Checklist (IMM 5484).

Note: If your child and grandchild does not meet the LICO minimum, his spouse or common-law partner can assist by also providing a letter of invitation with one of the documents listed in the Document Checklist (IMM 5484).

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Step 1. Gather documents

What documents are required?

If you are outside of Canada, use the Document Checklist (IMM 5484) (PDF, 162.43 KB) to assist you in gathering the required documents to submit your application.

Some visa offices may require additional supporting documents specific to your country. For further information on these requirements, visit our website under List of countries and corresponding Canadian visa offices.

If you are inside Canada, you must use the Document checklist – Applicants in Canada (IMM 5721) (PDF, 592.97 KB) to gather the documents required to submit your application to the Case Processing Centre – Ottawa (CPC-O).

Important information: If you do not provide all the requested information or documents, the processing of your application could be delayed.

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Minors travelling alone

Minors (under 18 years of age) travelling alone or with a person other than their parents or legal guardians should have a letter of authorization, preferably in English or French, signed by both parents or legal guardians. It should also include the name of the adult who will be responsible for the children in Canada.

Minors travelling with only one parent or legal guardian should have a letter of authorization, preferably in English or French, from the non accompanying parent or guardian.

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Translation of documents

If your documents are in a language other than English or French, check with the responsible visa office to determine whether they need to be translated.

Visit our website under List of countries and corresponding Canadian visa offices.

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Step 2. Complete the application

Filling out the application

The following are the forms that must be filled out and submitted:

• Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257)
• Family Information (IMM 5645)
• Document Checklist (IMM 5484)
• Document Checklist – Applicants in Canada (IMM 5721), if applicable
• Schedule 1 – Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257 – Schedule 1), if applicable
• Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409), if applicable
• Use of a Representative (IMM 5476), if applicable

Note: You may be required to complete additional supporting documents upon request of a visa officer.

Important information: It is a serious offence to give false or misleading information on these forms. The information you provide on your application is subject to verification.

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Important information

Be complete and accurate

Complete all sections. If a section does not apply to you, write “Not Applicable” or “NA”, except for your name (last name and given name[s]). Refer to questions 1 and 2 under “Personal Details” section for further instructions.

If your application is incomplete it will be returned to you and this will delay the processing of your application.

If you need more space for any section, print out an additional page containing the appropriate section, complete it and submit it along with your application.

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Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257)

Who must fill out this application form?

This form must be completed by each person applying for a Temporary Resident Visa to visit Canada.

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Note

Completing the form

You must answer all the questions on this application form unless indicated otherwise.

Download and fill out the application form on a computer.

You also have the option of saving your form and completing it later.

Note: Completing the form electronically is easier and reduces the risk of errors that can slow down the application process.

In order to help you fill out the application form, read and follow the questions below.

Question 1

Type your universal client identification number (UCI), if known. Otherwise, leave it blank. If this is your first time dealing with CIC you will not have a UCI.

Question 2

From the list, select the language (English or French) in which you would like to receive your service.

Question 3

From the list, select the type of visa you are applying for:

• Visitor visa: official document issued by a visa office that is placed in the passport which allows you to seek entry to Canada.
  Note: This visa may also be used for repeated entries into Canada from the USA or St. Pierre and Miquelon provided you do not enter any other country. Such entries must occur within the time validated for your stay in Canada.
• Transit Visa: is required for persons travelling through Canada for less than 48 hours on their way to another country.
  Note: To obtain a transit visa you must provide specific evidence of your travel itinerary from your transportation company or travel agent.

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Personal Details

Question 1

Full name

Type your family name (surname) as it appears on your passport, travel or identity document (even if the name is misspelled). Do not use initials.

Note: If you do not have a family name on your passport, travel or identity document, enter all your given name(s) here and leave the given name field blank.

Type all of your given name(s) (first, second, or more) as it appears on your passport, travel or identity document (even if the name is misspelled). Do not use initials.

Note: If you do not have a given name on your passport, travel or identity document, leave this field blank. Do not enter “*”, “Not applicable” or “NA”.

Question 2

Nick names/Alias

Check the box to indicate if you ever used any other name. This could include your birth name, maiden name, married name, nick name, etc.

If you checked ‘‘Yes’’, type any other family name that you have ever used.

If you checked ‘‘Yes’’, type any other given name (first, second, or more) that you have ever used.

Question 3

From the list, select your sex (male, female or unknown).

Question 4

Indicate your date of birth. If your complete date of birth is unknown, please use ‘*’ (star sign/asterisk) to fill in the spaces for the year, month or day, where applicable.

Question 5

Type your city or town of birth.

From the list, select your country of birth.

Question 6

From the list, select your country of citizenship. To be a citizen of a country means that you were either born in that country (in most cases) or have been granted citizenship by that country. If you have dual citizenship, select the country that issued the passport you will be using for this trip.

Question 7

From the list, select the appropriate information to indicate:

• The name of your country of residence. Your country of residence is the country in which you are living, provided that you have been lawfully admitted to that country.
• Your immigration status in that country (indicate one of the following):
  • Citizen
  • Permanent resident
  • Visitor
  • Worker
  • Student
  • Other
  • Protected Person
  • Refugee Claimant
• Other: This section must be completed if you selected ‘‘Other’’ as a status,
• The dates (From – To) you have been living in your country of residence.

Question 8

Check the box to indicate whether you have lived in any country other than your country of citizenship or your current country of residence for more than six (6) months in the past five (5) years.

If you checked ‘‘Yes’’, from the list select the appropriate information to indicate the following:

• The name of the country you lived in,
• Your immigration status for the time you were in that country:
  • Citizen
  • Permanent resident
  • Visitor
  • Worker
  • Student
  • Other
  • Protected Person
  • Refugee Claimant
• Other: This section must be completed if you selected ‘‘Other’’ as a status,
• The dates (From – To) you were living in that country.

Question 9

Check the box to indicate if you are applying from your current country of residence.

If you checked ‘‘No’’, select the appropriate information from the list to indicate:

• The name of the country where you are applying from,
• Your immigration status in that country by choosing one of the following:
  • Citizen
  • Permanent resident
  • Visitor
  • Worker
  • Student
  • Other
  • Protected Person
  • Refugee Claimant
• Other: This section must be completed if you selected ‘‘Other’’ as a status,
• The dates (From – To) that you have been living in that country.

Note: If you are not a citizen of the country where you are making your application, you must provide proof of your legal status when you submit your application.

Question 10

1. From the list, choose your current marital status:

   Annulled Marriage

   This is a marriage that is legally declared invalid. An annulment can also be a declaration by the Catholic Church that the marital union did not have a binding force.

   Common-
   Law

   This means that you have lived continuously with your partner in a marital-type relationship for a minimum of one year.

   Divorced

   This means that you are officially separated and have legally ended your marriage.

   Legally Separated

   This means that you are married, but no longer living with your spouse.

   Married

   This means that you and your spouse have had a ceremony that legally binds you to each other. Your marriage must be legally recognized in the country where it was performed and in Canada.

   Single

   This means that you have never been married and are not in a common-law relationship.

   Widowed

   This means that your spouse has died and that you have not re-married or entered into a common-law relationship.

2. Enter the date (year, month and day) you were married or you entered into your current common-law relationship.
3. Type the family name(s) and given name(s) of your current spouse or common-law partner.

Note: If you are in a common-law union, you must also complete the Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409) form and include it with your application.

Question 11

Check the box to indicate whether you have previously been married or in a common-law relationship. If you checked ‘‘Yes’’, provide the:

• Family name(s),
• Given name(s),
• Date of birth,
• Type of relationship:
  • Common-law, or
  • Married.
• Dates (From – To) for which you were in the relationship with your previous spouse/common-law partner.

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Language (s)

Question 1

1. From the list, select your native language (mother tongue).
2. If your native language is not English or French, select from the list the one you would most likely use.
   • Both
   • English
   • French
   • Neither
3. From the list, select English, French or both as your language of communication:
   • English
   • French
   • Both
   • Neither
4. Check Yes or No to indicate if you have taken a test from a designated testing agency to assess your proficiency in English or French.

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Passport

Question 1

Type your passport, travel or identity document number. Make sure there is no space between each number and/or letter.

Question 2

From the list, select the name of the country that issued your passport, travel or identity document.

Question 3

Enter the date your passport, travel or identity document was issued.

Question 4

Enter the date your passport, travel or identity document will expire.

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Contact Information

Question 1

Indicate your current mailing address (where information should be mailed) by typing the following information:

• Post Office Box (P.O. Box) number, if applicable. If you do not indicate post office box, the Street number must be provided.
• Apartment (Apt.) or Unit, if applicable
• Street number (No.), if applicable. This must be provided if you did not type in a P.O. Box
• Street name, if applicable
• City or Town
• From the list, select the Country of your current mailing address.
• Province or State
• Postal code/zip code
• District, if applicable.

Note: All correspondence will go to this address unless you provide your e-mail address.

If you wish to have a representative who can conduct business on your behalf, you must provide their email and mailing address(es) in this section and complete the Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) form.

For more information read the ‘‘Use of a Representative’’ section in this guide.

Question 2

Check the box to indicate whether your residential address (where you live) is the same as your mailing address. If ‘‘No’’, type the following information:

• Apartment (Apt.) or Unit, if applicable
• Street Number (No.)
• Street Name
• City or Town
• Country
• Province or State
• Postal Code/zip code
• District, if applicable.

Question 3

Check the appropriate box to indicate if the telephone number is from Canada/the United States (US) or Other (any other country).

From the list, select the type of telephone:

• Residence (home)
• Cellular (cell/mobile)
• Business (work)

Type your telephone number including the country code, area/regional codes, etc.

If you have an extension number, write it after your phone number under ‘‘Ext.’’

Question 4

Check the appropriate box to indicate if your additional telephone number is from Canada/the United States or Other (any other country).

From the list, select the type of telephone:

• Residence (home)
• Cellular (cell/mobile)
• Business (work)

Type your telephone number including the country code, area/regional codes, etc.

If you have an extension number, write it after your phone number under ‘‘Ext.’’

Question 5

Check the appropriate box to indicate if the facsimile (fax) number is from Canada and United States or Other (any other country).

If applicable, type your facsimile (fax) number, including country code, area/regional codes, etc.

Question 6

If applicable, type your e-mail address using a format similar to the following: name@provider.net

Note: By indicating your e-mail address, you are hereby authorizing transmission of correspondence including file and personal information to be sent electronically to you at the address provided.

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Details of Visit to Canada

Question 1

1. From the list, indicate the purpose of your visit to Canada:
   • Business
   • Tourism (includes family visit)
   • Short-term studies (course or program of six months or less)
   • Returning student
   • Returning worker
   • Super Visa — Parents and grandparents
   • Other (medical visit, transit, etc.)
   • Family Visit
   • Other
   Note: If you selected “other” in question 1a), provide details in 1b)
2. Provide details.

Question 2

Enter the dates (From – To) that you plan to stay in Canada.

Question 3

Type the amount of funds (money) in Canadian dollars that you have available to you during your stay in Canada.

Question 4

Type the following information about the person(s) or institution(s), including schools you intend to visit during your stay in Canada:

• Name (includes the name of a person or a name of an institution)
• Relationship you have with them (friend, family, co-worker, etc.)
• Their address in Canada (street number, street name, city or town and postal code).

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Education

Check the box to indicate if you have any post secondary education (including university, college or apprenticeship training).

The following table provides examples of post secondary education:

Trade/Apprenticeship

Training completed in a specific trade, such as carpentry or auto mechanics.

Non-university certificate/diploma

Training in a profession that requires formal education but not at the university level (for example, dental technician or engineering technician).

Bachelor’s degree

Academic degree awarded by a college or university to those who completed an undergraduate curriculum; also called a baccalaureate. Examples include a Bachelor of Arts, Science or Education.

Master’s degree

Academic degree awarded by a graduate school of a college or university. You must have completed a Bachelor’s degree before a Master’s degree can be earned.

PhD

Highest university degree usually based on at least three years of graduate studies and a thesis. Normally, you must have completed a Master’s degree before a PhD can be earned.

If you checked ‘‘Yes’’, provide full details of your highest level of post secondary education:

• Enter the dates (year and month) you attended the institution
• Field(s) of study (mechanics, social sciences, medicine, etc.)
• School or Facility name
• City or Town
• From the list, select the country, and
• Province or State.

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Employment (Work/Occupation)

Provide the following information about your employment for the past 10 years. If you are retired, provide the 10 years before your retirement.

Question 1

Current Activity/Occupation

Provide details about your current Activity/Occupation:

• Enter the dates (year and month) you have been working at your current occupation,
• The activity/occupation or a brief description of your position. If you do not work, describe what you are currently doing (retired, not working, going to school, etc.),
• Indicate the name of the company or employer or facility where you work,
• City or Town,
• Country,
• Province/State, if applicable

Question 2

Previous Activity/Occupation

Provide details of your previous Activity/Occupation for the past 10 years. If you are retired, provide the 10 years prior to your retirement.

Note: If you need more space, print out an additional page of the form, complete this section and submit it with your application.

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Background Information

Question 1

Check the box to indicate if:

1. you or any of your family member(s) have ever had tuberculosis of the lungs or been in close contact with a person with tuberculosis within the past two years.
2. you have any physical or mental disorder that would require social and/or health services other than medication during your stay in Canada.
3. If you checked “Yes” to any of the above questions, provide details and the name of the family member, if applicable.

Note: Refer to the Family Members definition in this guide.

Question 2

Check the box to indicate if you have ever:

1. remained beyond the validity of your status, attended school without authorization or worked without authorization in Canada.
2. been refused a visa or permit, denied entry or  ordered to leave Canada or any other country.
3.  Applied previously to enter or remain in Canada.
4. If you checked “Yes” to one of the above questions, provide details.

Question 3

Check the box to indicate if you have ever:

• committed,
• been arrested for, or
• been charged with or convicted of any criminal offence in any country. 

If you checked “Yes”, you may be required to complete Schedule 1 – Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257 – Schedule 1).

Question 4

1. Check the box to indicate if you have ever served in any military, militia, civil defence unit, served in a security organization or police force (including non obligatory national service, reserve or voluntary units).
2. If you checked “Yes”, provide your dates of service and the countries where you served.

If you checked “Yes” you may be required to complete Schedule 1 – Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257 – Schedule 1).

Question 5

Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate if you have ever been a member or associated with any political party, or other group or organization which has engaged in or advocated violence as means to achieving a political or religious objective, or which has been associated with criminal activity at any time.

If you checked “Yes” you may be required to complete Schedule 1 – Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257 – Schedule 1).

Question 6

Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate if you have ever witnessed or participated in the ill treatment of prisoners or civilians, looting or desecration of religious buildings.

If you checked “Yes” you may be required to complete Schedule 1 – Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257 – Schedule 1).

Note

To complete your form:

1. Once the application is completed, click on the “Validate” button located at the top or bottom of the form. This will generate a barcode* page (page 5 of 5). If this application form is completed on a computer and printed, you must place the barcode page on the top of each individual application package when submitting the application.
   *See image below:
   
   Note: This barcode page will not appear if you fill out your application by hand.
2. If you are 18 years of age or older, sign and date in the boxes provided at the bottom of the page.
   If you are less than 18 years of age, your form must be signed by one of your parents or a legal guardian.

Note: By signing, you certify that you fully understand the questions asked, and that the information you have provided is complete, accurate, and factual. If you do not sign and date the application form, it will be returned to you.

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Family Information (IMM 5645)

Who needs to complete this form?

This form must be completed by each person, 18 years of age or older, applying for a Temporary Resident Visa, a study or work permit outside Canada.

Section A

Write the personal details about:

• yourself,
• your spouse or common-law partner, if applicable,
• your mother,
• your father.

Include: full name, relationship, date of birth, marital status (married, single, widowed, common-law, divorced, separated, annulled marriage), present address and occupation (job), and whether they will come with you to Canada by checking ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘No’’.

If a person is deceased, indicate this under ‘‘Present address’’, and write the city and the date they died.

If not currently employed, please indicate whether that person is retired, studying, etc.

You must answer all questions. If a section does not apply to you, write ‘‘Not applicable’’ or ‘‘N/A’’.

Note: If you do not have a spouse or a common-law partner, read ‘‘Note 1’’, then sign and date the declaration at the end of Section A.

Section B

Write the personal details about your children. It is very important that you list all of your children even if they are already permanent residents or citizens of Canada. This includes:

• married children,
• adopted children,
• children of your spouse (step-children) or common-law partner,
• any of your children who have been adopted by others,
• any of your children who are in the custody of an ex-spouse, former common-law partner or other guardian.

Write full name, relationship, date of birth, marital status (married, single, widowed, common-law, divorced, separated, annulled marriage), present address and occupation (job), and whether they will come with you to Canada by checking ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘No’’.

If a person is deceased, indicate this under ‘‘Present address’’, and write the city and the date they died.

If not currently employed, please indicate whether that person is retired, studying, etc.

You must answer all questions. If a section does not apply to you, write ‘‘Not applicable’’ or ‘‘N/A’’.

Note: If you do not have children, read ‘‘Note 2’’, then sign and date the declaration at the end of Section B.

Section C

Write the personal details about your:

• brother(s),
• sister(s),
• half-brother(s) and half-sister(s),
• step-brother(s) and step-sister(s).

Write full name, relationship, date of birth, marital status (married, single, widowed, common-law, divorced, separated, annulled marriage), present address and occupation (job), and whether they will come with you to Canada by checking ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘No’’.

If a person is deceased, indicate this under “Present address”, and write the city and the date they died.

If not currently employed, please indicate whether that person is retired, studying, etc.

You must answer all questions. If a section does not apply to you, write ‘‘Not applicable’’ or ‘‘N/A’’.

Section D

Signature

Sign and date in the boxes provided at the bottom of the page.

Note: By signing, you certify that you fully understand the questions asked, and that the information you have provided is complete, accurate and factual. If you do not sign or date the form, your application will be returned to you.

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Schedule 1 – Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM5257 – Schedule 1)

Who must fill out this application form?

This form must be completed by:

• you, the principal applicant;
• your spouse or common-law partner (whether accompanying you to Canada or not), and
• your dependent children aged 18 or over (whether accompanying you to Canada or not).

Check the box to indicate whether you are the principal applicant or the spouse, common-law partner or dependent child aged 18 years or older of the principal applicant.

Question 1

Indicate your full last name (surname/family name) as it appears on your passport, travel or identity document.

Indicate all of your given name(s) (first, second or more) as they appear on your passport, travel or identity document. Do not use initials.

Question 2

Indicate your date of birth.

Question 3

Type your Unique Client Identifier number (UCI), if known. Otherwise, leave it blank. If this is your first time dealing with CIC you will not have a UCI.

Question 4

Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate whether you served in any military, militia, or civil defence unit or service in a security organization or police force (including non obligatory national service, reserve or volunteer units).

If yes, provide details about your military service (if applicable) for each of the countries whose armed forces you served in including:

• dates (From –To),
• locations/place where you were stationed,
• province and
• country.

If you were not in any military service, write N/A.

Question 5

Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate whether you have ever witnessed or participated in the ill treatment of prisoners or civilians, looting or desecration of religious buildings.

If yes, provide details of the circumstances including:

• dates (From –To),
• location (city, town, etc.),
• province,
• country, and
• details (space is provided)

Question 6

Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate whether you have had membership or association with any political parties, groups or organizations which have engaged in or advocated violence as a means to achieving a political or religious objective, or which has been associated with criminal activity at any time.

Include details such as:

• dates (From –To),
• name of organization,
• activities or positions held,
• province, and
• country.

Note: Do not use abbreviations.

Question 7

Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate whether you have held any government positions in the past such as:

• Civil servant
• Judge
• Police officer
• Mayor
• Member of parliament, or
• Hospital administrator.

Include:

• dates (From –To),
• country,
• level of jurisdiction (examples: national, regional or municipal),
• name of the department or the branch you worked for, and
• activities and/or positions that you held.

Note: Do not use abbreviations.

Question 8

Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate if you have travelled to any country other than your country of citizenship or current country of residence since the age of 18 or during the past five years.

Include:

• dates (From –To),
• country,
• location (city, town, etc.)
• purpose of travel (tourism, business, etc.)

Validate

Once the application is completed, click on the "Validate" button located at the top or bottom of the form. If completed properly, the following information will appear on the top right corner of the form, (just before the page number):

• family name
• initial letter of the given name
• year and month of birth

Note: This information will not appear if you fill out your application by hand.

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Use of a Representative (IMM 5476)

Who may use this form?

Complete this form only if you:

• used the services of a representative to help you prepare or submit your application; or
• are appointing a representative; or
• are cancelling a representative’s appointment.

If you have dependent children aged 18 years or older, they are required to complete their own copy of this form if a representative is also conducting business on their behalf.

Your spouse or common-law partner does not have to complete a separate request and must sign in the box provided under question 10.

What is a representative?

A representative is someone who has provided advice, consultation, or guidance to you at any stage of the immigration application process, or in an immigration proceeding. If someone represented or advised you to help you submit your application, then that person is your representative. A representative is also someone who has your permission to conduct business on your behalf of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

When you appoint a representative:

• you also authorize CIC and CBSA to share information from your case file with this person;
• your application will not be given special attention nor can you expect faster processing or a more favourable outcome;
• the representative is authorized to represent you only on immigration matters related to the application you submit with this form;
• you can appoint only one (1) representative for each application you submit;
• you are not obliged to hire a representative. We treat everyone equally, whether they use the service of a representative or not.

Important information: You must notify us if your representative’s contact information changes or if you cancel the appointment of a representative.

Types of representatives

Family, friends, and non-profit groups often help applicants who feel the need for support and advice on immigration matters. You can appoint a representative who does not charge fees or receive any other compensation for providing immigration advice or services to represent you before CIC or the CBSA.

There are two (2) types of representatives.

Uncompensated representatives include:

• friends and family members who do not, and will not, charge a fee or receive any other consideration for their advice and services;
• organizations that do not, and will not, charge a fee or receive any other consideration for providing immigration advice or assistance (such as a non-governmental or religious organization);
• consultants, lawyers and Quebec notaries, and students-at-law under their supervision, who do not, and will not, charge a fee or receive any other consideration to represent you.

Compensated representatives:

Compensated representatives charge a fee or receive some other form of consideration in exchange for the advice and representation that they provide. If you want us to conduct business with a compensated representative then they must be authorized by CIC.

Note: If an immigration representative is being paid or compensated by someone other than the applicant, then the representative is still considered to be a compensated representative.

It is important to know that anyone who represents or advises you for payment — or offers to do so — in connection with immigration proceedings or applications is breaking the law unless they are an authorized representative or they have a specific agreement or arrangement with the Government of Canada that allows them to represent or advise you. This applies to advice or consultation which happens before or after an immigration application is made or a proceeding begins.

Authorized representatives are:

• immigration consultants who are members in good standing of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC);
• lawyers and paralegals who are members in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society and students-at-law under their supervision;
• notaries who are members in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Québec and students-at-law under their supervision.

If you appoint a compensated representative who is not a member of one of these designated bodies, your application will be returned. For more information on using a representative, visit our website.

General Application Information

• Check one box to indicate if you are appointing or cancelling the appointment of a representative.
• Check both boxes and complete all sections if you are cancelling a representative and appointing a new one at the same time.

Section A – Applicant Information

Question 1

Write your last name (surname or family name) and given name(s).

Question 2

Write your date of birth.

Question 3

If you have already submitted your application, write:

• the name of office where the application was submitted;
• location of office;
• type of application you are sending.

Question 4

Write your Citizenship and Immigration Canada Identification (ID) or Unique Client Identifier (UCI) number (if known).

Section B – Appointment of Representative

Question 5

Write your representative’s full name.

If your representative is a member of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC), a law society or the Chambre des notaires du Québec, print his or her name as it appears on the organization’s membership list.

Question 6

Check one box to indicate if your representative is unpaid or paid.

If your representative is paid, write the membership ID number of:

• the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC); or
• a Canadian provincial or territorial law society; or
• the Chambre des notaires du Québec.

Question 7

Write your representative’s contact information.

Note: By indicating your representative’s e-mail address, you are hereby authorizing CIC to transmit your file and personal information to this specific e-mail address.

Question 8

To accept responsibility for conducting business on your behalf, your representative must:

• sign the declaration
• date the declaration, and
• include the Party ID, only if it is known.

Section C – Cancel the Appointment of a Representative

Question 9

Fill in this section if you wish to cancel the appointment of a representative. Write the representative’s full name.

Section D – Your Declaration

Question 10

By signing, you authorize CIC to complete your request for yourself and your dependent children under 18 years of age.

If your spouse or common-law partner is included in this request, he or she must sign in the box provided.

Release of information to other individuals

To authorize CIC to release information from your case file to someone other than a representative, you will need to complete the form Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM 5475) (PDF, 1.85 MB). The form is also available from Canadian embassies, high commissions and consulates abroad.

The person you designate will be able to obtain information on your case file, such as the status of your application. However, they will not be able to conduct business on your behalf with CIC.

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Step 3. Pay the fees

Fees

Important information:

There are two types of fees:

• an application processing fee;
• a biometric fee.

Find out if you are required to provide biometrics.

Use the table below to calculate the total amount of fees to be paid (all fees are in Canadian dollars). The processing fees must be included with your application. If you or your family members are required to provide biometric information, the biometric fee should be paid at the same time and the same way as the processing fee in order to avoid delays in processing your application.

Note: You may be required to pay fees in local currency.

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Calculating your fees

*Subject to change at any time

Services	Number of persons	Amount per person	Biometric fee per person	Amount due
*Temporary Resident Visa – (single or multiple entry)		X $100	X $85
*Temporary Resident Visa – family rate		$500	$170
Transit Visa	NO FEE
Total payment:

Make sure that you are eligible before you pay, and gather all the documents requested before you submit the application.

The fees will not be refunded, regardless of the final decision. For example, being found ineligible for a temporary resident visa is part of the processing; the fees will not be refunded. If you apply again, you will have to pay another processing fee and if applicable, another biometric fee.

Visa-exempt visitors applying for a Super Visa:
If you are a citizen of a country where you do not require a visa to visit Canada, you do not have to pay any processing fees. However you will have to satisfy all other requirements to obtain a Super Visa.

For more information, see our list of Countries and territories whose citizens require visas in order to enter Canada as visitors.

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Payment method options

Outside Canada:

Check the website of the visa office responsible for the country or region where you live for more information on fees and acceptable methods of payment.

Inside Canada

You have the option of paying your fees through the Internet or at a financial institution.

Payment of fees on the Internet

To use this option, you need:

• a credit card;
• access to a computer with a printer;
• a valid email address; and
• follow these steps below.

Steps

1. Go to the CIC website.
2. Select Pay your fees.
3. Select Pay my fees online.

Once you have paid the fees you must:

• print the official receipt;
• fill out by hand the “Payer Information” section;
• attach the bottom portion (copy 2) of this receipt to your completed application.

Payment of fees at a financial institution

Fees can be paid at a financial institution in Canada and a receipt obtained which is sent to the Case Processing Centre. No other form of payment is acceptable. The receipt to be used is attached. Payment can be made at most financial institutions in Canada. Check with financial institutions in your area.

Follow these steps to make your payment:

1. Fill out one receipt form (IMM 5401) for yourself and other members of your family if you are applying at the same time. An original receipt must be used; a photocopy is not acceptable. You may obtain an original receipt form (IMM 5401) by ordering through our website.
2. Insert the ‘Total’ on the bottom portion of the receipt. Do not complete the top two portions of the receipt; these will be completed by the financial institution.
3. Complete the ‘Payer Information’ sections on the reverse of the receipt.
4. Bring the receipt and your payment to the financial institution. Do not make payment using the automated teller machines.
5. The financial institution will let you know what form of payment it considers acceptable.
6. The financial institution will accept your payment, then stamp and insert the amount paid in the upper two portions of the receipt. You will receive the top two portions of the receipt. Make sure you are given these and that they have been stamped and completed before you leave the financial institution.

If there is no local financial institution which will accept payment, you may pay the fees by mail. Contact the Call Centre agent for instructions.

Note: Do not present your application to the financial institution, only your receipt.

After you have paid the fees retain the top portion of the receipt for your records. Attach the middle portion to your completed application and mail it to the CPC-O.

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Incorrect fee payment

Incorrect fee payments may delay processing your application.

Payment issue – No  processing fee included

CIC will return your application.

Note: Processing of your application will only start after you return your application with requested fees.

Payment issue – Insufficient fees included

CIC will inform you of how much to pay and how to pay.

Note: Processing of your application will only continue after you provide the missing fees.

Payment issue – Overpayment

CIC will:

• start processing your application, and
• send you a refund as soon as possible.

Note: You do not have to request a refund, it will be done automatically.

Payment issue – No biometric fee included (if you are required)

CIC will:

• inform you on how much to pay and how to pay.

Note: Processing of your application will continue after you provide the missing fees.

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Step 4. Submit the application

Where do I apply?

You may submit your application to a Canadian visa office, a Visa Application Center (VAC) responsible for your area oronline.

Consult the relevant visa office website  or VAC regarding accepted methods of submitting applications (for example, general mail, in person, by courier etc.)

Are there biometric requirements?

You and your family members may be required to appear in person to have your fingerprints and photograph (biometric information) taken at a biometric collection service point.

All family members who require their fingerprints and photograph taken and who are applying together should go to the same biometric collection service point.

Find out if you are required to provide biometrics.

Important information

You must not have your biometric fingerprints and photo taken before you submit your application. You can have your biometrics collected:

• after you submit your application and have received a biometric instruction letter which will direct you to a list of points of service you may choose from; 
  or
• at the same time as you are submitting your application in person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

If I am required to provide my biometric fingerprints and photo, where do I go?

If you are required to provide biometric information you must provide your fingerprints and photograph at a biometric collection service point. These include:

• Visa Application Centres (VAC);
• US Application Service Centres (ASCs) in the United States; and
• CIC offices outside Canada in a country where there is no VAC or ASC.

Applicants who use the services of a VAC to submit an application must provide their biometric information at the same VAC.

Consult the list of biometric collection service points.

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Submit the document checklist

Make sure you complete the Document Checklist (IMM 5484) and include it with your application forms and supporting documents.

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Sign the form

The application must be signed and dated before it is submitted.

If you are:

• 18 years of age or older, sign and date in the boxes provided at the bottom of the page,
• less than 18 years of age, your form must be signed by one of your parents or legal guardian.

Note: If your application is not signed and dated, it will be returned to you.

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What should I submit with my application?

Make sure you complete the Document Checklist and include it with your application forms. Make sure you include all the supporting documents listed on the Document Checklist.

If your family members are also applying for TRVs, you can include your whole family's applications in the same envelope.

If you are a permanent resident and have decided to renounce your permanent resident status, you may include yourapplication to voluntarily renounce permanent resident status (PDF, 654.75 KB) in the same envelope with your application for a TRV.

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Submit the application form

When submitting your application, to ensure your encoded data is captured, you must include the last page or pages which contain your unique barcodes. See the image below:

Note: This page is only available when you complete your application electronically (on a computer).

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What happens next?

The application process

Submission

Completion check

Once you have submitted your application, CIC will check to determine that:

• all required application forms have been properly completed and submitted,
• the application processing fee has been paid, and
• all requested supporting documentation has been provided.

If your application package is incomplete:

• CIC will return it to you,
• no file will be created, and
• no record will be kept until a complete application has been submitted.

Processing

Review for decision

Your application will undergo a detailed review by an officer. The officer will consider all the information and documentation you have provided, and will assess it and will decide if an interview is necessary. If so, you will be informed of the interview date, time and place.

If your application is refused, any original documents, including your passport if submitted with your application, will be returned to you with an explanation of why your application was refused.

Note: If we suspect that fraudulent documents were submitted, they will not be returned.

If your application is approved, any original documents, including your passport if submitted with your application, will be returned to you with the requested visa.

Visa-exempt visitors applying for a Super Visa

If your application is approved, your passport and documents will be returned to you with a letter of introduction.

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Arrival in Canada

A valid Temporary Resident Visa is not a guarantee of entry into Canada. An officer at the port of entry will decide if you still meet the requirements for admission when you arrive.

If there has been a change in circumstances between the dates of your application for a visa and your arrival in Canada, or if subsequent information is given which was not originally available to the visa office, you may be refused entry.

When you arrive in Canada, the officer at the port of entry will determine whether you may enter Canada and how long you may stay. You must leave Canada on or before the date set by the officer or have your status extended by an officer in Canada. The stamp placed in your passport by a Canadian official is valid for six (6) months unless otherwise amended by an officer.

Parent and Grandparent Super Visa

The stamp placed in your passport by a Canadian official may be valid up to two (2) years unless otherwise amended by an officer.

Note: for applicants who provided their biometric information as part of their application, when you arrive at the Canadian port of entry, the officer will:

• check your travel documents and compare you to the photo taken at the time of your application, and
• may ask you to proceed to a secondary inspection line where your fingerprints will be compared with the fingerprints that were taken at the time of your visa application.

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Factors that can facilitate processing

There are certain things you can do to help ensure that your application is processed as fast as possible:

• ensure that all the documentation and information requested are provided with your application
• advise the visa office of a change to your contact information. This includes:
  • mailing address
  • telephone number(s)
  • facsimile number (fax)
  • e-mail address

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Factors that may delay processing

The following factors may delay the processing of your application:

• missing signature on application forms
• unclear photocopies of documents
• documents not accompanied by a certified English or French translation
• verification of information and documents provided
• a medical condition that may require additional tests or consultations
• a criminal or security problem
• consultation is required with other offices in Canada and abroad