Visitor Visa

How to Apply for a Canada Visitor Visa: Step-by-Step Guide (2025 IRCC Updated Portal)

 

Are you planning to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or business purposes? Applying for a Canadian visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) may seem complicated, but with the new IRCC portal updates in 2025, the process has become more user-friendly. In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step with reference images (insert images where mentioned) to make your application smoother and hassle-free.

Step 1: Visit the Official IRCC Portal

Start by visiting the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at www.canada.ca.

  • Click on “Immigration and Citizenship”

  • Then select “Visit” > “Apply for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)”

  • Choose the online application option via the new IRCC secure account.
    📸 [Insert Screenshot of IRCC Visitor Visa Page]

Step 2: Create or Sign In to Your IRCC Account

You must have a GCKey or sign-in partner (banking login) to access the IRCC portal.

  • If you don’t have an account, create one using GCKey.

  • Once signed in, click on “Apply to come to Canada” and choose Visitor Visa.

📸 [Insert Screenshot of Account Login Page]

Step 3: Answer the Eligibility Questionnaire

You will be asked a series of questions to determine your eligibility.

  • Answer questions like your purpose of visit, country of residence, passport details, and travel history.

  • Based on your answers, the system will tell you which application you are eligible for.

📸 [Insert Screenshot of Sample Questionnaire]

Step 4: Fill Out the Application Forms

You will now be directed to the document checklist. The main form you’ll need is IMM 5257 (Application for Temporary Resident Visa).

  • Fill in personal details, travel history, background information, etc.

  • You can either complete the form online or download it, fill it out, and upload the completed version.

📸 [Insert Screenshot of IMM 5257 Form Page]

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

The portal will provide a list of documents specific to your situation. Common documents include:

  • Passport (all stamped pages)

  • Travel itinerary or flight details

  • Proof of funds

  • Letter of invitation (if applicable)

  • Employment or school verification

  • Digital photo as per IRCC requirements

📸 [Insert Screenshot of Upload Documents Section]

Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee

Once all forms and documents are uploaded, you will be prompted to pay the visa application fee online.

  • Visitor visa fee: CAD $100

  • Biometrics fee (if required): CAD $85

📸 [Insert Screenshot of Payment Section]

Step 7: Submit the Application and Wait for Updates

After payment, submit your application. You’ll receive an email confirmation and updates in your IRCC portal.

  • If biometrics are required, you’ll receive instructions to schedule an appointment.

  • Processing time varies based on location and volume. Track your application regularly.

📸 [Insert Screenshot of Application Confirmation Page]

Final Tips:

  • Always double-check documents before uploading.

  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.

  • Keep an eye on your email and IRCC portal for updates or additional document requests.

By following this step-by-step guide, your chances of submitting a complete and successful visitor visa application increase significantly. If you found this helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with others planning their Canadian adventure!