Visitor Visas

Issues to consider when applying for a Canadian Visitor Visa

Greetings!

Even though there is still snow on the ground in Canada, it is time to start thinking about travel plans and the numerous conferences and festivals that fill the summer calendar here. If you are from a country that requires a visa, it is best to plan well in advance to avoid any travel disruption or disappointment. Whether to grant a Visitor Visa, is a discretionary decision made by overseas Visa Officers, who consider numerous factors. Listed below are a few things to think about when applying:

1) You are unlikely to be successful if you only submit the required documents IRCC lists a number of required documents on their website, however these form only the bare minimum of an application. In order to grant a Visa, an Officer must fully understand the purpose of your visit, and must also be satisfied that you have the finances to support yourself while in Canada and that you will return to your home country at the end of your stay. This often requires detailed descriptions of your circumstances and corroborating documentation in support of your application.

2) It is very important to be specific about the purpose of your travel It is popular right now for overseas Officers to refuse applications because they find that the purpose of the visit is ‘vague’. It is critical to clarify the purpose of your visit in detail and also ensure that any letters of invitation and corroborating documentation support the purpose specified.

3) You must show evidence of connection to your home country. A key issue for Officers is whether the individual will return to their home country at the end of their visit. It is critical to show ties to your home country including proof of family back home, ownership of property, proof of work or school, and any other documentation that shows that you are established in your home country.

4) Travel history is important but not conclusive Officers will look at past travel history and determine if the Applicant has been compliant with immigration rules in other countries. It is important to highlight and provide proof of travel. Long Mangalji is proud to be partnering with Collision Conference, North America’s fastest growing tech conference, to be held in Toronto, Ontario on June 22-25, 2020.

Although visitor visa applications appear to be simple, they can be quite complicated. If you require assistance with your application please contact us at inquiries@lmlawgroup.com or at 416-548-9101.

Yours truly,

The Team at Long Mangalji LLP