🇨🇦 Canada Visa Checklist
Every document you'll need — explained. Check items off as you gather them. Your progress saves automatically.
Primary identity document. Must be valid for the duration of your intended stay plus 6 months.
Format: Original. Minimum 2 blank pages.
Canada's official visitor visa application form, submitted online via IRCC portal.
Format: Confirmation number and printed checklist from your IRCC account.
Most East African applicants must provide fingerprints and photo at a VFS Application Support Centre.
Format: Attend a biometrics appointment at VFS Canada office. Biometrics are valid for 10 years once enrolled.
Required for the application.
Format: 35mm x 45mm, white background, taken within last 6 months.
Primary financial evidence. Shows consistent income and ability to fund your stay.
Format: Original bank-stamped statements for the last 6 months. Online statements must be certified by the bank.
Confirms your employment, salary, and approved leave dates.
Format: Original, on company letterhead, signed by HR or direct supervisor. Must include: position, start date, salary, approved leave period.
Shows financial readiness for studies. SDS applicants must purchase a GIC from a IRCC-approved bank.
Format: Bank receipt for GIC or tuition payment. GIC must be CAD $10,000 from RBC, Scotiabank, TD, or other approved banks.
Confirms enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution in Canada.
Format: Original letter on institutional letterhead. Must include student ID, program name, start/end date, and tuition fees.
Demonstrates your departure plan and the specific nature of your visit.
Format: Printed flight confirmation with outbound and return dates.
SDS requires an English or French language test. IELTS Academic score of 6.0+ is the standard requirement.
Format: Original IELTS, TOEFL, or TEF result (no older than 2 years).
Confirms where you will stay during your visit.
Format: Hotel booking confirmation (with full address) or invitation letter from Canadian host with their PR/citizenship proof.
A formal letter from your Canadian host strengthens your application significantly.
Format: Signed letter including: host's full name, address, relationship to you, your dates of visit, and confirmation of accommodation.