Facts You Need to Know Before Applying for Canada Visa
Canada is a very welcoming country for refugees and immigrants, but obtaining a visa can be a challenging process. Therefore, it is important to research and prepare your documents before submitting a visa application in Canada.
If you are a citizen of a European, Middle Eastern or African country, you may need to submit certain biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph. So today we will be discussing some facts you need to know before applying for a Canadian visa.
Types of Canada
There are four types of visas in Canada: Temporary Resident Visa, Study Permits, Work Permits and Permanent Resident Travel Document.
- Temporary Residence Visa
If you plan to visit Canada temporarily, extend a visit to Canada, visit attractions and events in the country, or visit friends or family, you should seek a temporary residence visa.
Necessary documents;
- Fee payment at the visa application centre
- A photocopy of your passport or a valid travel ID
- Two visa photos that fit the photo specifications with your name and date of birth on the back
- Proof of income or financial support
- Photocopy of marriage license/certificate
- Purpose of the trip/visit
- A photocopy of your current immigration status (visas or passport for other countries)
- Minors travelling alone must have a letter of authorization from a parent or guardian
- Study Permits
If you are an international student and who want to study in Canada, then you will need the study permit;
Necessary documentation;
- A valid passport or travel ID
- A letter of acceptance from a designated learning institute (DLI)
- Proof that you have enough money for;
- Enrollment
- Living expenses for yourself and any other family member who will be living with you.
- Return transportation tickets for you and any member of your family in Canada
- Work Permit
If you are a temporary worker, business person, student, or caregiver in the Home Caregiver Program, you will need the work permit.
Necessary documentation:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Results of a language test
- Evaluation of educational credentials if;
- You are applying through the Federal Skilled Workers program, or
- You want to earn points for the education you got outside of Canada
- Provincial nomination (if you have one)
- Written job offer from an employer in Canada (if you have one)
- Proof that you have one of the NAFTA jobs (for example, accountant, computer systems analyst, or engineer)
- Police certificates and criminal history
- Medical tests that prove you are healthy
- Proof of funds for living expenses and transportation
- Permanent residence immigration document
A permanent residence immigration document allows Canadian residents to travel outside of Canada and use the document as proof that they are legal residents. It is valid for a single entry.
Necessary documentation:
- Valid passport
- Fee payment: $ 50
- Two visa photos.
- Photocopies of all passports or travel documents used in the previous five years
- Two proofs that show your residency in Canada for the last five years;
- Employment records
- Bank statements
- Rental contract
- Canada Revenue Agency Assessment Notice for Five Years Before Application
- Evidence that you have received benefits from Canadian government programs
- Marriage license or proof of civil or common-law union (if you are travelling with your spouse or partner)
- Birth certificate of the minor (if you are travelling with a minor)
- Business licenses or article of incorporation, trade association agreements, etc.
The Come to Canada Tool
Come to Canada is an online tool designed to help people find out if they are eligible to apply for a visa or permit in Canada. To get more information, you will have to answer a series of questions about yourself;
- Nationality
- Age
- Linguistic ability
- Immediate family
- Education
- Work experience
- Income and/or net worth
- Details about any job offers
Based on the answers to these questions, this tool can help you determine which programs you may be eligible for and what type of visa you should apply for.
However, it is best to consult with an immigration attorney to confirm exactly what you need to do for your visa application.
FAQs
What is a U.S. work permit and who needs it?
A U.S. work permit, also known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), is an official card issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows non-citizens to work legally in the United States. Individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents—such as students on certain visas, asylum seekers, or those awaiting green cards—need this permit to gain legal employment.
How can I apply for a work permit in the USA?
To apply for a U.S. work permit, you must complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) and submit it to USCIS, along with the required filing fee and supporting documents. These documents typically include a copy of your current visa, passport, photos, and proof of your eligibility category. Once submitted, you will receive a receipt notice and may later be called for biometrics before the work permit is issued.
How long does it take to get a U.S. work permit?
Processing times for a U.S. work permit vary depending on your eligibility category and the USCIS service center handling your case. On average, it takes about 3 to 6 months from the date USCIS receives your application. Applicants can check their case status online using the receipt number provided in their notice.
Can I renew or replace my U.S. work permit?
Yes, work permits can be renewed or replaced. To renew, you must file a new Form I-765 about 180 days before your current permit expires. If your work permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can also apply for a replacement by submitting the same form and indicating that it is for replacement. Renewal and replacement applications typically follow the same processing timelines as new applications.
