Why apply for a Canada Tourist Visa?

Canada is consistently ranked among the top global destinations for international travel, and for good reason. With its stunning natural landscapes, multicultural cities, and safe, welcoming environment, Canada offers a travel experience like no other. Whether you're planning to explore iconic attractions like Niagara Falls, the Rockies, or Vancouver, or you're visiting family and friends, the Canada Tourist Visa allows you to do so legally and confidently.
 

This visa, officially known as the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is essential for nationals of visa-required countries and is available as single-entry or multiple-entry, depending on your travel needs. It’s also perfect for those who wish to attend business meetings, participate in cultural events, or simply enjoy a vacation in one of the world's most peaceful countries.
 

Canada continues to be a top destination for tourists and families from around the world—including thousands from Australia each year because of:
 

• 21+ million tourists visited Canada in 2023 (StatCan).
• Free emergency healthcare is available in many provinces for short-term visitors.
• Ranked among the top 3 safest countries globally (Global Peace Index 2023).
• Multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years or passport expiry.
• Home to 1.4 million+ residents, making family visits smooth and welcoming.
   

*Want to know more about Canada visit visa? Sign up with Y-Axis to know more about Canada.
 

Types of Canadian Tourist Visa

Canada offers two main types of visitor visas under the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) category. These are non-immigrant visas designed for short-term stays related to tourism, business travel, or visiting family and friends. The type of visa issued depends on your travel needs and your overall eligibility.
 

Single Entry Visa

The Single Entry Visa allows you to enter Canada once for a specific, short-term purpose—such as sightseeing, attending a wedding, or visiting close relatives. Once you leave Canada, the visa cannot be reused, except in limited cases where you travel to nearby countries like the United States or Saint Pierre and Miquelon and return within the authorized period.
 

Key Highlights:

• Valid for one-time use only
• Typical duration of stay: up to 6 months
• Best suited for short visits, one-off events, or applicants with limited travel plans
• Not ideal for those planning to return multiple times
   

This visa type is commonly issued for specific, time-bound visits and may also be granted if Canadian immigration officers determine that a one-time entry is more appropriate based on your travel history or purpose.
 

Multiple Entry Visa

The Multiple Entry Visa is the preferred option for most travelers, offering flexibility to enter and exit Canada multiple times over a longer validity period. Once approved, you can travel freely to and from Canada for the duration of the visa, without needing to reapply each time.
 

Key Highlights:

• Valid for up to 10 years or until your passport expires
• Allows multiple entries into Canada without reapplying
• Maximum stay per visit: up to 6 months
• Ideal for frequent flyers, parents of residents, or business travelers
   

Most applicants are issued a Multiple Entry Visa by default, unless there is a specific reason for limiting entry. This visa is especially convenient for Australian passport holders who may wish to visit family in Canada over multiple years or travel for events, business, or holidays.
 

Benefits of a Visit Visa to Canada

• Explore Canada’s iconic destinations—Niagara Falls, Banff, Quebec, and more
• Visit family members or attend weddings, graduations, and personal events
• Attend short-term business events, conferences, or meetings
• Travel without needing a new visa each time (if on a multiple-entry visa)
• Potential to convert to a longer stay if eligible under a different visa category
   

Eligibility for a Canada Visit Visa

To qualify, you must:

• Hold a valid passport
• Be in good health
• Have no criminal record
• Show ties to your home country (job, family, property)
• Prove sufficient funds for your stay
• Provide an invitation letter if visiting family/friends
• Intend to leave Canada at the end of your visit
   

Note: You may also need to undergo biometrics depending on your nationality.
 

Canada visitor visa requirements from Australia

If you're living in Australia but hold a passport from a visa-required country, you’ll need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)—commonly referred to as a Canada Visitor Visa—before travelling:
 

• Valid Indian passport (6+ months validity)
• Proof of Legal Residency in Australia
• Recent passport-size photos (as per Canadian guidelines)
• Completed Visa Application Form (IMM 5257)
• Ties to Australia
• Proof of funds (bank statements, payslips)
• Travel itinerary and accommodation details
• Invitation letter (if applicable)
• Proof of ties to India (job, property, family)
• Police clearance certificate (if requested)
• Biometrics (photograph + fingerprints)
   

Steps to Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa

Here’s a simplified step-by-step process:
 

Step 1: Determine Visa Requirement

Check if your nationality requires a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). Australian citizens typically need an eTA, while residents from other nationalities require a visa.
 

Step 2: Create an Online IRCC Account

Register on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal to access the online application system.
 

Step 3: Complete the Application Form (IMM 5257)

Fill out the Visitor Visa application form and other necessary forms (e.g., family form, travel history) online.
 

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

• Valid passport
• Photographs (as per IRCC specs)
• Proof of funds (bank statements, payslips)
• Travel itinerary & accommodation
• Proof of ties to Australia
• Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
   

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fees

Pay the visa application fee (CAD 100) and biometrics fee (CAD 85) online using a credit or debit card.
 

Step 6: Book a Biometrics Appointment

Schedule and attend a biometrics appointment at your nearest VFS Global centre in Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, etc.).
 

Step 7: Submit Passport (if requested)

If your application is approved, you’ll be asked to send your passport for visa stamping. Return shipping is usually included.
 

Step 8: Receive Your Canada Tourist Visa

Once processed, your passport will be returned with the visa label, allowing you to enter Canada for up to 6 months per visit, depending on approval.
 

Canada Tourist Visa Processing Time

The average processing time for a Canada Tourist Visa from India is 21 to 30 working days, depending on application volume and document accuracy. Applications from Australia or other countries may vary slightly. Factors affecting processing time include:
 

• Biometric completion
• Volume of applications during peak seasons
• Need for additional documents or background checks
   

Tip: Apply at least 2 months in advance of your planned travel.

Fees are non-refundable even if the visa is denied. Family applications may get discounted rates.

Type	Fee (CAD)	Approx. Fee (AUD)
Visitor Visa (Single/Multiple Entry)	100	AUD 115 – 120
Biometrics Fee (per person)	85	AUD 95 – 100
VFS Service Charges	Varies	AUD 40–60

 

How can Y‑Axis help you?

At Y-Axis Australia, we provide end-to-end support for your Canada Tourist Visa application—from eligibility checks to final stamping. Our services include:
 

• Free initial eligibility assessment
• Document checklist and application form support
• Guidance on funds and invitation letters
• Appointment booking for biometrics/VFS submission
• On-going updates on visa status tracking
• Options for family visitor visas and future travel plans
   

With over 25 years of immigration experience, Y-Axis ensures your journey to Canada is smooth, timely, and successful.