If you are an international student residing in the UK and wish to visit Canada for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending personal events, you will need to apply for a Canada Tourist/Visit Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). This visa allows short-term visits to Canada, typically for stays of up to six months.
Eligibility Requirements:
To apply for a Canada Tourist/Visit Visa as an international student in the UK, you must meet certain criteria:
- Valid UK Student Visa: You must hold a valid UK student visa or residence permit that is valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended date of return from Canada.
- Non-Immigrant Intent: You need to demonstrate that you plan to visit Canada temporarily and have strong ties to your home country or the UK, such as ongoing studies, family connections, or other commitments.
- Financial Stability: You must provide evidence that you can financially support yourself during your stay in Canada and afford your return trip to the UK.
Application Process:
- Determine if You Need a Visa:
- As an international student, you are likely required to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) unless you are from a visa-exempt country.
- Complete the Visa Application Form (IMM 5257):
- Fill out the IMM 5257 form for a Temporary Resident Visa. You will need to provide personal information, details about your travel plans, and information about your studies in the UK.
- Gather Required Documents:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada and have at least one blank page.
- UK Visa or Residence Permit: Proof that you have legal residency in the UK, valid for at least 3 months after your intended return from Canada.
- Proof of Enrollment in the UK: A letter from your university confirming your student status, including course details, start and end dates, and your current enrollment status.
- Financial Proof: Bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsorship details showing that you have sufficient funds to cover your travel and stay in Canada. Generally, this includes funds for accommodation, food, and return flights.
- Travel Itinerary: A detailed travel plan, including flight bookings, accommodation, and an invitation letter (if visiting family or friends in Canada).
- Letter of Explanation: A personal statement explaining your reasons for visiting Canada, how long you intend to stay, and your plan to return to the UK or home country after your visit.
- Travel Insurance (optional but recommended): Medical insurance to cover any emergencies during your stay in Canada.
- Pay the Application Fees:
- The standard application fee for a Canada Tourist/Visit Visa is CAD $100. If biometrics are required (fingerprints and a photograph), there is an additional fee of CAD $85.
- Submit Biometrics (if applicable):
- Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide biometrics at an official visa application center (VAC). Biometrics involve submitting fingerprints and having your photograph taken.
- Submit Your Application:
- Submit your application either online via the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) portal or in person at a Visa Application Center (VAC). If applying online, you must create an account and upload digital copies of your documents.
- Wait for Processing:
- Visa processing times vary depending on demand and your country of citizenship. The average processing time can range from a few weeks to several months, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
Key Documents Checklist:
- Completed Visitor Visa (IMM 5257) form
- Valid passport (with at least one blank page)
- Proof of UK residency (valid for 3 months beyond your return date)
- University enrollment letter (proving you are a current student in the UK)
- Financial proof (bank statements, sponsorship, scholarship letters)
- Travel itinerary (including flight and accommodation bookings)
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Proof of strong ties to your home country or the UK (e.g., ongoing studies, family ties)
Visa Interview (if required):
In some cases, the Canadian embassy may request an interview to further assess your visa application. During the interview, you may be asked questions about the purpose of your trip, your financial stability, and your intent to return to the UK after your visit to Canada. Be prepared to provide additional documentation if requested.
Visa Processing Times:
The processing time for a Canada Tourist/Visit Visa from the UK varies, but it typically takes 2-4 weeks. However, during peak travel seasons, processing times may be longer, so it’s important to apply early.
Financial Requirements:
You must show that you have enough funds to cover your stay in Canada. This can be demonstrated through:
- Personal bank statements
- Sponsorship letter (if someone in Canada is sponsoring your stay)
- Scholarship or financial aid documents (if applicable)
Proof of Ties to the UK:
As an international student, it’s essential to demonstrate that you have strong ties to the UK to prove that you will return after your visit. This can include:
- Enrollment in a degree program: Your university enrollment letter should confirm that you are actively pursuing your studies.
- Property lease or rental agreement: If you have accommodation in the UK.
- Part-time employment (if applicable): Providing proof of a part-time job can also help demonstrate ties to the UK.
What Happens If Your Visa Is Denied?
If your visa is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for refusal, which could include insufficient financial proof, failure to demonstrate strong ties to the UK, or unclear travel purpose. You can address these issues and reapply, or, in some cases, appeal the decision.
Length of Stay in Canada:
A Canada Tourist/Visit Visa typically allows stays of up to 6 months. The exact length of your stay will be determined by the border officer at the port of entry. If you wish to extend your stay while in Canada, you can apply for a visitor visa extension before your authorized stay expires.
