Are you dreaming of exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Canada, meeting friendly locals, and immersing yourself in its vibrant culture? Look no further! 10-year multiple entry visitor visa in Canada is your golden ticket to experience the wonders. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to obtain this remarkable visa. Whether you’re planning a holiday, visiting family, or conducting business, the 10-year visa offers unparalleled flexibility. Let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
Why Choose a 10-Year Multiple Entry Visa?
The 10-year validity period offers convenience and flexibility. You won’t need to submit a new visa application every time you plan a trip to Canada. Instead, you can use the same visa for multiple visits, saving both time and money.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Your 10-Year Multiple Entry Visa
1. Gather the Required Documents
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents:
Valid Passport or Travel Document:
- Provide a clear, color copy of your passport or travel document.
- Include the page showing your birth date, country of origin, and any pages with stamps, visas, or markings.
- Note that certain passports (e.g., issued by Somalia) are not accepted.
Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) (if applicable):
- If someone else is applying on your behalf, they must complete this form.
Family Information (IMM 5645):
- All applicants aged 18 or older must complete this form.
Minor Children (if applicable):
- Depending on whether a child under 18 will travel with only one parent, with a relative, or alone, additional documents may be needed.
- Authorization letters or other relevant documents may be required.
Previous Passports and Visas:
- Include any passports or visas used within the last 10 years to travel outside your country.
- Collect entry and exit stamps, study/work permits indicating your duration outside your country, and expired or valid visas.
Itinerary:
- Provide documents showing your planned stay duration and activities in Canada.
2. Complete the Application Form
Once you’ve gathered the necessary documents, the next crucial step is to complete the application form. Here’s how to navigate this process:
Visit the Official Canada Immigration Website:
- Head to the Canada Immigration website to access the application form.
- Look for the section related to visitor visas (temporary resident visas).
Choose the Right Form:
- Depending on your specific situation, you’ll need to select the appropriate form. Here are the common ones:
- Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV): This is the standard form for most visitors.
- Transit Visa: If you’re passing through Canada on your way to another country, you’ll need a transit visa.
- Super Visa: Specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
- Study Permit or Work Permit: If you’re planning to study or work in Canada, different forms apply.
Fill Out the Form Accurately:
- Pay attention to every detail as you complete the form.
- Provide accurate information about yourself, your travel plans, and your purpose of visiting Canada.
- Double-check for any errors or missing information.
Biometrics Requirement:
- In most cases, you’ll need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after submitting your application.
- The new application process includes this step. Find out if you need to give biometrics and how it works.
Online or Paper Application:
You have two options:
- Apply Online: The preferred method for most applicants. It’s faster and more convenient.
- Apply on Paper (in Specific Situations): If you’re unable to apply online, follow the paper application process.
Permanent Residents of Canada:
- If you’re already a permanent resident (PR) of Canada, you won’t receive a temporary resident visa (TRV).
- Instead, if you’re outside Canada without a valid PR card, apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).
- If you meet the requirements for a PRTD, you can return to Canada as a PR.
- If you no longer want to maintain PR status, you can voluntarily give it up and apply for a TRV.
3. Pay the Application Fee
Once you’ve completed the application form, the next step is to pay the application fee. Here’s what you need to know:
Fee Amount:
- The fee for a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) starts from $CAN 100.
- Keep in mind that this fee may vary based on your specific circumstances and the type of visa you’re applying for.
Payment Methods:
- Visit the Online Payment Portal to pay your application fees online.
- Accepted payment methods typically include credit cards, debit cards, and other electronic payment options.
- Ensure that the payment is made in Canadian dollars (CAD).
Retain the Payment Receipt:
- After making the payment, you’ll receive a confirmation or receipt.
- Keep this receipt safe, as you may need it for reference during the application process.
Biometrics Fee (if applicable):
- In addition to the application fee, you may need to pay a separate fee for biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
- Biometrics are usually required for most applicants. Check if you need to give biometrics and follow the instructions provided.
4. Attend an Interview (if requested)
Congratulations! You’ve submitted your application, and now it’s time to prepare for a potential interview with a visa officer. Here’s how to ace it:
Expectations:
- The interview aims to verify the information you provided in your application.
- Visa officers want to understand your travel intentions, ties to your home country, and overall credibility.
Common Interview Questions:
- Purpose of Visit: Be ready to explain why you’re visiting Canada. Is it for tourism, business, family, or study?
- Travel History: Discuss your previous international travel experiences. Mention any countries you’ve visited and the duration of your stays.
- Ties to Your Home Country: Highlight your connections to your home country. This includes family, employment, property, and community involvement.
- Financial Capacity: Be prepared to discuss how you’ll fund your trip and provide evidence (bank statements, sponsor letters, etc.).
- Itinerary: Explain your planned activities in Canada. Are you attending an event, visiting family, or exploring tourist attractions?
Appearance and Attire:
- Dress professionally. Opt for business casual attire.
- Maintain good hygiene and grooming.
- A neat appearance reflects your seriousness about the interview.
Preparation Tips:
- Practice: Rehearse your answers to common questions. Be concise and confident.
- Review Your Application: Familiarize yourself with the details you provided.
- Research Canada: Know basic facts about Canada, its culture, and attractions.
- Stay Calm: Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but take deep breaths and stay composed.
Documents to Bring:
- Passport: Carry your valid passport.
- Application Documents: Bring copies of your application form, supporting documents, and payment receipt.
- Additional Evidence: If you have additional proof (invitation letters, hotel bookings, etc.), carry them too.
Interview Etiquette:
- Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with the visa officer.
- Be Honest: Answer truthfully. Avoid exaggeration or withholding information.
- Speak Clearly: Articulate your responses clearly.
5. Maintain a Balanced Travel History
The 10-year multiple entry visa grants you the freedom to visit Canada repeatedly over a decade. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between your visits to Canada and your time spent in your home country. Here’s why:
- Temporary Intent: The visa is designed for temporary visits. It’s not meant for individuals planning to live in Canada permanently. Consistently spending long periods in Canada without returning home may raise suspicions.
- Demonstrate Genuine Intent: By maintaining a balanced travel history, you demonstrate that your visits to Canada are temporary and that you have strong ties to your home country. This helps establish your genuine intent as a visitor.
Tips for Balancing Your Travel History:
Return to Your Home Country Regularly:
- After each visit to Canada, spend a significant amount of time back home.
- Avoid consecutive long stays in Canada without breaks.
Reasons for Returning Home:
- When questioned, be prepared to explain why you return to your home country.
- Mention family, work, studies, or other commitments that necessitate your presence there.
Maintain Strong Ties:
- Family Ties: If you have family members (spouse, children, parents) in your home country, emphasize these connections.
- Employment or Studies: Show that you have a job, studies, or other responsibilities waiting for you back home.
Avoid Frequent Back-to-Back Visits:
- While you can re-enter Canada immediately after leaving, avoid doing so too frequently.
- Space out your visits to maintain a balanced pattern.
Keep Records:
- Maintain records of your travel history, including entry and exit dates.
- These records can be useful if asked about your previous visits.
Be Honest and Transparent:
- During interviews or interactions with immigration officers, answer truthfully.
- Avoid providing conflicting information about your travel intentions.
What to Expect:
- Questions: Visa officers may ask about your travel history, reasons for visiting Canada, and ties to your home country.
- Scrutiny: If you’ve spent most of your time in Canada, expect closer scrutiny.
- Admission Decision: Ultimately, the decision rests on your overall profile and adherence to visa conditions.