Create a GCKey or sign in with Sign-In Partner on the IRCC website and open a visitor visa application to see the exact document checklist for your situation; this centralises uploads and messages. Check IRCC processing times page for current estimates.
Have a quick breakfast at a nearby cafe (many open 7:30–9:00am); examples: local bakery or South-Indian cafe. Eat early so you can use the morning for focused document work.
Gather passport (valid 6+ months beyond travel), 2 passport photos (specs on IRCC site), bank statements (last 6 months), employment/leave letter, invitation (if any), travel itinerary and travel insurance quote — these prove purpose and ties to India.
Carefully fill the visitor visa application in your IRCC account (answer truthfully and upload supporting documents). Save frequently and use the document checklist to avoid omissions.
If any supporting docs are not in English/French, arrange certified translations and notarisation; translators often take 1–2 days — check local translator hours (usually 10:00–18:00).
Check file formats, sizes, and that filenames are clear; ensure IDs and bank statements clearly show name and balances. IRCC requires specific file types and sizes — follow their instructions to prevent delays.
Pay the visitor visa fee (CAD100 per person) and biometric fee (CAD85 per person) on the IRCC payment portal; total usually CAD185 — keep receipts/screenshots.
Book the earliest biometrics slot at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) for India — VAC hours vary by city (commonly 09:00–16:00). If VAC slots are full, monitor frequently for cancellations.
Have breakfast at a cafe near the VAC (open around 8:00–9:00am) and arrive 20–30 minutes before your scheduled slot to allow for security procedures.
Attend the VAC to have your fingerprints and photo collected; bring passport and payment receipts. VAC hours vary by city—confirm your appointment time and documents on the VAC confirmation email.
If IRCC requests medical exam or police clearance, schedule them promptly—medical centres have separate hours (typically 09:00–16:00) and PCC takes longer, so act fast if asked.
Purchase refundable travel insurance and prepare a provisional flight itinerary (a reservation, not necessarily a paid ticket) as part of supporting documents; many insurers operate 09:00–18:00.
Scan and have ready proof of ties to India (employment letter, property papers, family details) in case IRCC requests more evidence to prove temporary stay.
If IRCC approves, you will receive instructions to submit your passport to the VAC for visa stamping or to mail passport to the VAC/corresponding centre — follow the instruction immediately.
If asked, submit the passport along with the VAC submission form and fee (VAC service fee varies by city); VAC hours commonly 09:00–17:00 — check local VAC page for exact timings.
Only book non-refundable travel after visa sticker is in hand, but you may reserve refundable tickets and flexible hotels now; confirm cancellation policies.
On passport return, check the visa sticker: spelling of name, passport number, dates and conditions (single/multiple entry). Report errors immediately to VAC/IRCC.
Have breakfast and assemble a travel folder with passport, visa, travel insurance, return ticket, financial proof and accommodation details for border officers.
Pack with attention to liquids, medications and customs rules; check Canada entry rules for goods and COVID/vaccination requirements (if applicable at time of travel).