Canada Visitor Visa from India: Processing Time, Requirements and Fees
How long a Canada visitor visa (temporary resident visa, TRV) takes from India, what it costs, which documents to prepare, and what to do if you are refused. All figures are checked against official IRCC pages.
Last reviewed: 13 October 2026 · Processing-time figure from IRCC data updated 7 October 2026
IRCC’s published estimate for visitor visa applications made from India was 30 days on 7 October 2026. This is an estimate based on recent applications, not a promise. IRCC updates it regularly, and your own application can take longer if your biometrics are delayed, documents are missing, or the officer needs more information. Always check the official processing-time tool before you plan travel.
Canada visitor visa processing time from India
On 7 October 2026, IRCC’s processing-time data showed 30 days for visitor visa applications submitted from outside Canada by applicants in India. IRCC calculates these times from recent applications, so they move up and down through the year. In 2025 and 2026, the figure for India has varied widely from month to month, so do not rely on a number you read weeks ago.
What can make your application slower
Late biometrics
Your file usually cannot be finalised until your fingerprints and photo are received. Book your VFS appointment as soon as you get the instruction letter.
Missing documents
An incomplete application can be delayed or refused. Upload everything on your personalised IRCC checklist.
Extra checks
Some files need background checks, an interview or a medical exam. These add time and are outside your control.
Seasonal demand
Application volumes rise before summer and before major family events and holidays. Apply well ahead of your travel date.
Do Indian citizens need a visitor visa for Canada?
Yes. Indian passport holders generally need a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) to travel to Canada as tourists, to visit family or friends, or for short business visits. India is not one of the countries whose citizens can travel with only an electronic travel authorisation (eTA). Use IRCC’s entry-requirements tool to confirm what applies to you.
A visitor visa does not allow you to work in Canada. If you want to work, you need a work permit. See our Canada work permit requirements guide.
Canada visitor visa requirements for Indian citizens
A visa officer must be satisfied that you meet the conditions for a temporary visit. In practice, you need to show that you:
- Have a valid passport. IRCC recommends it is valid for at least 6 months from your planned travel date.
- Have a genuine, clear purpose for the trip, such as tourism, a family visit or a business meeting.
- Have enough money for your trip and stay.
- Have ties to India, such as a job, business, studies, property or family, that will take you home after your visit.
- Are in good health and have no criminal or immigration history that makes you inadmissible.
- Will leave Canada at the end of your authorised stay.
Documents required for a Canada visitor visa from India
IRCC gives every applicant a personalised document checklist when they apply online. Follow that checklist first. Most applicants from India are asked for some or all of the following:
| Document | Practical tip |
|---|---|
| Passport | Scan the bio page and every page with stamps or visas. |
| Digital photo | Must meet IRCC photo specifications. |
| Proof of funds | IRCC suggests at least 6 months of bank statements. Explain any large or unusual deposits. |
| Employment or business proof | Employer letter (dated within 3 months) with role, salary and approved leave, or business registration and tax documents. |
| Purpose of travel | Itinerary, or an invitation letter from your host in Canada with their status proof. |
| Proof of relationship | If visiting family, include birth or marriage certificates. |
| Travel history | Copies of previous visas and entry stamps, especially for the USA, UK, Schengen, Australia or New Zealand. |
| Family information form | Complete it accurately. Inconsistencies are a common problem. |
| Minor’s travel consent | Required if a child travels without one or both parents. |
Canada visitor visa fees in India
These are the government fees listed by IRCC. They are paid in Canadian dollars, by card, through the IRCC application portal.
| Fee | Amount (CAD) | Who pays |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor visa processing fee | $100 per person | Each applicant (single and multiple-entry visas cost the same) |
| Family maximum | $500 | Families of 5 or more applying together |
| Biometrics fee | $85 per person | Applicants who must give biometrics |
| Biometrics family maximum | $170 | Families of 2 or more applying together |
Biometrics for Canada visitor visa applicants in India
Most applicants aged 14 to 79 must give fingerprints and a photo. After you apply and pay, IRCC sends a biometric instruction letter. You then book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India run by VFS Global. Biometrics are generally valid for 10 years, so if you gave them recently for another Canadian application you may not need to give them again. Your IRCC account will tell you.
How to apply for a Canada visitor visa from India
- Confirm the visa type. Check whether you need a visitor visa, or a super visa if you are a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident visiting for longer.
- Create an IRCC account. Apply online through the official IRCC visitor visa page. IRCC says you must apply online unless you qualify for an exception.
- Answer the questions and get your checklist. Your answers create a personalised document list.
- Upload clear, consistent documents. Make sure names, dates and travel history match across every form.
- Pay the fees online. Pay only on the IRCC portal.
- Give biometrics. Book your VFS appointment as soon as the instruction letter arrives.
- Track your application. Watch your IRCC account for requests for more information.
- Submit your passport if approved. IRCC will ask you to send your passport through the VAC so the visa can be placed in it.
Common Canada visitor visa refusal reasons
A refusal letter usually lists one or more reasons. Applicants from India often see these:
Ties to India
The officer was not satisfied you would leave Canada after your visit, based on your job, family, property or other ties.
Purpose of visit
The reason for the trip was unclear or did not match your situation.
Financial situation
Your funds looked insufficient, or large unexplained deposits raised questions.
Travel history
Limited previous travel can count against you, especially if there are no other strong ties.
For a deeper explanation, read our guide to Canada visa refusal reasons and how to reapply.
What to do after a Canada visitor visa refusal
- Read the refusal letter carefully. It tells you which concerns the officer had.
- Consider requesting the officer’s notes. You can request your file notes (often called GCMS notes) through an Access to Information request. They often explain the decision in more detail.
- Reapply only with new or better evidence. There is no waiting period, but submitting the same application again usually gets the same result. Address each concern directly.
- Know the limits. There is no appeal for a refused visitor visa. A legal challenge (judicial review at the Federal Court) has strict deadlines and needs a lawyer.
How to avoid Canada visa and job scams
- Nobody can guarantee a Canadian visa or a faster decision. IRCC officers make every decision.
- Pay government fees only on the official IRCC portal, never to a personal bank account, UPI ID or WhatsApp contact.
- A visitor visa does not let you work. Be very careful with any “job + visitor visa” offer.
- Anyone giving immigration advice for a fee should be authorised. You can check a consultant on the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants public register.
- Check every job offer before you pay or share documents. See how to verify a Canada job offer and LMIA.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Canada visitor visa take from India?
IRCC’s estimate was 30 days on 7 October 2026. It changes regularly and is not a guarantee, so check the official processing-time tool before you apply.
How much is the Canada visitor visa fee for Indians?
The government fee is CAD $100 per person, plus CAD $85 for biometrics if required. The family maximums are $500 for the visa fee and $170 for biometrics.
Does the processing time start when I submit or after biometrics?
Your application cannot normally be finalised until IRCC receives your biometrics. Giving them quickly is one of the few things you can do to avoid delays.
How long can I stay in Canada on a visitor visa?
The border officer decides how long you may stay when you enter Canada. Visitors are often allowed up to 6 months. The visa’s expiry date is not the same as your permitted length of stay.
Can I work in Canada on a visitor visa?
No. You need a separate work permit to work in Canada. Read our work permit requirements guide.
Can I reapply immediately after a refusal?
Yes, there is no mandatory waiting period. A new application is only worthwhile if it answers the concerns in your refusal letter with new or stronger evidence.
Do I need an agent or consultant to apply?
No. You can apply yourself online through IRCC. If you choose to pay someone for immigration advice, check that they are authorised.
Have a question about your visitor visa application?
Send a WhatsApp message with your question, for example which documents to include or how to read a refusal letter. We will reply with general guidance based on official IRCC information.
This website gives general information only. It is not affiliated with the Government of Canada or IRCC, and it is not a licensed immigration representative. We cannot guarantee visa approval, processing times or jobs. Government fees are paid only to IRCC.