12/15/2025
CANADA TOURIST VISA (TRV) – COMPLETE DOCUMENT GUIDE
1️⃣ Identity Document (Mandatory)
Accepted documents
•Passport (regular, official, or diplomatic)
•Government-issued travel document
What to submit
A clear, colour copy of the passport or travel document you will use to travel.
If you have a passport, include: Bio-data page (shows:
◦Full name
◦Date of birth
◦Country of origin)
•ALL pages with:
◦Entry and exit stamps
◦Visas
◦Markings or endorsements
◦Amendments or observations
If using a travel document, it must show:
•Full name
•Date of birth
•Document number
•Citizenship or residency status
•Photo
•Expiry date (if applicable)
•Issued by a recognized government authority
2️⃣ Travel History (Mandatory if Available)
This shows past compliance with immigration rules.
Include clear copies of:
•Previous passports (used in the last 10 years)
•Valid and expired visas
•Entry and exit stamps
•Study permits or work permits
•Any previous Canadian visas
📌 Even weak travel history is better than none if honestly declared.
3️⃣ Purpose of Travel / Itinerary (Mandatory)
Explains why you are visiting and how long you will stay.
Include one or more:
•Flight reservation (not a paid ticket)
•Hotel booking or accommodation proof
•Invitation letter from host (if staying with someone)
•Event registration (conference, wedding, graduation, etc.)
•A day-by-day travel plan (strongly recommended)
📌 Your itinerary must match your financial capacity and leave duration.
4️⃣ Proof of Funds – Bank Statement (Mandatory)
Shows you can support yourself during your stay.
Must include:
•Bank name and contact details
•Your full name and address
•Account number
•Minimum 6 months transaction history with good transaction flows.
•Opening and closing balances
⚠️ No unexplained lump sums.
5️⃣ Proof of Source of Funds (COMMONLY MISSING ❗)
Visa officers assess how your money was earned.
Acceptable documents:
•Employment letter + salary slips
•Business registration documents + business bank statements
•Tax returns or tax clearance certificates
•Rental income agreements
•Pension statements
•Investment or savings certificates
•Proof of inheritance, land sale, or bonuses (if applicable)
📌 Sudden deposits must be explained with evidence.
6️⃣ Proof of Employment / Occupation
Shows economic stability and intent to return.
If employed:
•Employment letter stating:
◦Job title
◦Salary
◦Employment start date
◦Approved leave
◦Expected return date
•Recent pay slips
If self-employed / business owner:
•Business registration certificate
•Business bank statements
•Tax filings
If student:
•School letter confirming enrollment
•School ID (if available)
7️⃣ Proof of Home Ties (VERY IMPORTANT)
Shows you will return after your visit.
Strong home ties include:
•Property ownership documents or lease agreement
•Family ties (marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates)
•Employment or business ownership
•Ongoing studies
•National ID or residence permit
•Letter from employer approving leave
📌 Home ties reduce overstay risk.
8️⃣ Invitation Letter & Host Documents (If Applicable – ADDED)
If visiting someone in Canada:
Host must provide:
•Invitation letter explaining:
◦Relationship to applicant
◦Length of stay
◦Address and contact details
•Copy of host’s:
◦Canadian passport or PR card
◦Proof of legal status
◦Utility bill or lease agreement
•Host’s bank statement or Notice of Assessment (optional but strong)
9️⃣ Letter of Explanation / Cover Letter (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
This connects your documents into one clear story.
Must explain:
•Purpose of travel
•Duration of stay
•Funding source
•Travel history
•Home ties
🔟 Additional Supporting Documents (OFTEN MISSED)
•Marriage certificate (etc)
•Declare previous denials even if not for Canada.