Invitation Letter for a Canada Visitor Visa from India: What to Include, With a Sample
If a relative or friend in Canada is inviting you, their letter can help explain why you are visiting and where you will stay. Here is exactly what IRCC says the letter should include, a sample you can adapt, and the mistakes to avoid.
An invitation letter is written and signed by your host in Canada. According to IRCC, it should give the visitor’s details (name, date of birth, address, relationship, purpose, length of stay, where you will stay, how expenses will be paid and departure date) and the host’s details (name, date of birth, address, job, status in Canada with proof, and family details). It supports your application but does not guarantee a visa, and writing it does not make the host legally responsible for you.
What is an invitation letter for a Canada visitor visa?
It is a letter from a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or other person living in Canada who is inviting you to visit. It tells the visa officer who you are visiting, why, for how long and how the trip will be paid for.
It is not required for every application. It is most useful when you are visiting family or friends, because it supports your stated purpose of travel. Your personalised IRCC document checklist shows whether one is requested in your case.
Supports your purpose
It confirms the reason for your trip and your plans in Canada.
Shows where you will stay
If you are staying with your host, the letter says so.
No guarantee
IRCC says the letter does not guarantee that a visa will be issued.
What must a Canada invitation letter include?
IRCC lists the information below. Use it as a checklist so nothing is missed.
Which documents should the host attach?
| Document | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Proof of status in Canada | IRCC asks for a photocopy, for example a Canadian birth certificate, citizenship card, PR card or Record of Landing (IMM 1000). |
| Proof of address in Canada | Supports where you will stay (practical tip, not on the IRCC list). |
| Host’s income proof | Useful if the host is paying for your trip, for example an employment letter or Notice of Assessment. |
| Proof of relationship | Birth or marriage certificates if you are visiting family. |
Sample invitation letter for a Canada visitor visa
Adapt this to your real situation. Do not copy it word for word, and never include anything that is not true.
[Date]
To the Visa Officer,
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Subject: Letter of invitation for [Visitor’s full name]
My name is [host full name], born on [date of birth]. I live at [full address in Canada] and my phone number is [number]. I work as [job title] at [employer]. I am a [Canadian citizen / permanent resident of Canada], and a copy of my proof of status is attached.
I am inviting my [relationship], [visitor full name], born on [date of birth], who lives at [address in India] and can be reached at [phone number], to visit me in Canada. The purpose of the visit is [for example, to attend my daughter’s graduation and spend time with family].
[He/She] plans to arrive on [date] and depart on [date], a stay of about [number] weeks. [He/She] will stay with me at the address above. [Explain who will pay for the trip: for example, “[Visitor] will pay for the flights, and I will provide accommodation and daily expenses.”]
My household includes my [spouse/children]: [names and dates of birth].
Please contact me if you need more information.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
[Host full name]
How to submit the invitation letter
- The host writes and signs the letter, using the IRCC list above.
- The host sends a clear scan of the signed letter and proof of status.
- You upload it with your online application, in the document slot your IRCC checklist gives for purpose of travel or supporting documents.
- Check consistency. Dates, addresses and purpose must match your application forms and itinerary.
- Keep a copy for travel. A border officer can ask about your plans when you arrive.
Is the letter different for a super visa?
Yes. For a parent and grandparent super visa, IRCC says the letter must also include a promise of financial support for the whole visit and the list and number of people in the host’s household used for the income calculation. Read the official super visa requirements before applying.
Common invitation letter mistakes and how to fix them
Frequently asked questions
Is an invitation letter mandatory for a Canada visitor visa from India?
No, not for every applicant. It is most useful when you visit family or friends. Your IRCC checklist shows if it is requested.
Does the invitation letter need to be notarized?
IRCC’s letter of invitation page does not say it must be notarized. Follow any instruction in your own checklist.
Can a friend send an invitation letter?
Yes. The host does not have to be a relative. The letter should explain your relationship and plans.
Does the letter guarantee my visa?
No. IRCC says the letter does not guarantee a visa. The officer assesses your whole application.
Is the host legally responsible for me?
IRCC says writing the letter does not make the host legally responsible for you, but the letter must be truthful and written in good faith.
Can the letter be in Hindi or Punjabi?
Submit documents in English or French, or include a translation that follows IRCC translation rules.
Not sure what your host should write?
Send us your question on WhatsApp, for example how to explain who will pay for the trip. We reply with general guidance based on official IRCC information.
This website shares general information only. It is not affiliated with the Government of Canada, IRCC or ESDC, and it is not a licensed immigration representative. We cannot guarantee visas, processing times or jobs. Pay government fees only on official Government of Canada websites.Official sources
Rules, fees and processing times can change. Always confirm the current requirements on the official pages above before you apply.