If you are a UAE resident and you want to visit Canada to see its beautiful landscapes, lively cities and rich culture, you need to take the first step, a tourist visa. If you are going to the CN Tower in Toronto, the Rocky Mountains, or to visit family, you need to know about the visa process. If you are living in Dubai and planning to visit Canada, this detailed guide will show you how to apply for Canada Visit Visa Dubai, how to apply, what documents you need and some tips if you want to migrate from UAE to Canada in future.
What is Canada Tourist Visa?
Canada Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)) is a visa issued to UAE residents to travel to Canada for tourism, recreation or to visit family and friends. It is a multiple entry visa, you can come and go as many times as you want within the approved period (usually up to 6 months).
It can be overwhelming to apply, but if you do it right, it’s a breeze.
Step 1: Find out if you are eligible for a Canada Visit Visa.
You must be eligible before you apply for a Canada Visit Visa Dubai.
To qualify for the tourist visa:
- You need to have a valid UAE residence visa.
- You must have a valid passport with 6 months validity.
- You must demonstrate that you have strong ties to the UAE (employment, family, property, etc.) and that you will return after your visit.
- You must show that you have enough money to support yourself while you are in Canada.
- No criminal record and healthy.
If you do meet these requirements, you are now ready to start the visa application process.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
To get a successful visa application, you need proper documentation. Here is a checklist of required documents:
- Valid Passport: You will need a passport valid for at least 6 months past your planned travel date and have at least 2 blank pages.
- Canada Visa Photo Size Requirements: The criteria for recent photos is required in the visa application.
- Size: 35mm x 45mm
- Background: Plain white
- Expression: Neutral (no smiling)
- No shadows or glare
Make sure your photos are in the Canada Visa Photo Size Requirements, otherwise, it will slow down the process.
- UAE Residence Visa: Valid UAE residence permit.
- Financial Proof: Salary slips proof or proof of sponsorship, bank statement of last 3–6 months.
- Travel Itinerary: Declare about your flight bookings, accommodation and planned activities in Canada.
- Cover Letter: You will need to write a letter that states the purpose of your visit, the length of your stay and your relationship to the UAE.
- Supporting Documents: These may be employment letters, business ownership certificates or proof of family relationship if you are visiting relatives.
Step 3: Submit the Visa Application
Option 1: Online Application
- Create an Account: Create a GCKey account on the official IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) website.
- Complete the Form: Complete the application form (IMM 5257). Be careful not to give wrong information.
- Upload Documents: All should be clear and legible and all documents should be uploaded.
- Pay the Fee: You can pay the visa fee online with a credit or debit card. The fee for Canada tourist visa is 100 CAD.
- Biometrics Appointment: Once you submit your application, you will be sent an instruction letter to attend a biometrics appointment. You can give your fingerprints and photo at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Option 2: Paper Application
You can also apply for a paper application at a designated Visa Application Centre in the UAE. Make sure you have all the required documents and you meet Canada Visa Photo Size Requirements before submitting.
Step 4: Biometrics and Processing
After you submit your biometrics, Canadian authorities will begin processing your application. Biometrics (fingerprints and photographs) are required of all applicants from the UAE.
Processing Time
- It takes 2 to 4 weeks to process the Canada tourist visa. Apply 1–2 months in advance to avoid last minute delays.
- To track your application status, you can go online to the IRCC website.
Step 5: Your visa will be sent to you.
After your application is approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport. Make sure you travel within the time frame approved and make sure you check twice the validity dates of your visa.
You may be asked to prove you have accommodation, your return flight and financial means when you arrive in Canada. In case of any border problems, always carry copies of your documents with you.
How to successfully apply for Canada Tourist Visa?
- Provide Accurate Information: Make sure that all the information provided on your application form and supporting documents is true and up to date.
- Meet Photo Requirements: Check Canada Visa Photo Size Requirements to avoid delay.
- Demonstrate Ties to the UAE: Show authorities that you will return to the UAE after your trip by highlighting your employment, family or property in the UAE.
- Financial Proof: You have to have enough money in your bank statements or sponsor letters.
Final Thoughts
Canada Visit Visa Dubai is a very complicated process but if you have the right documentation and plan it can be simple. Every step of the way is important to a successful application — from ensuring your documents meet the Canada Visa Photo Size Requirements to preparing for your biometrics appointment.
If you are moving to Canada from UAE or you are going to Canada for tourism, you are in for a wonderful and life changing experience. With this guide you’ll be exploring Canada’s natural beauty, world class cities and warm hospitality in no time.
Have a great Canadian adventure and safe travels!
