By Phoenix Global Resettlement Services (Phoenix GRS)
Planning a trip, work opportunity, or studies in Canada? Understanding the requirements for Canada visa is crucial to avoid delays or refusal. In 2025, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) updated its rules—from financial thresholds to biometric mandates—making preparedness more important than ever. In this comprehensive guide, Phoenix GRS outlines every visa type, document checklist, recent updates, and tips to streamline your application.
2. Types of Canada Visa & Their Core Requirements
2.1 Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV)
Most non-exempt travelers need a TRV to visit Canada for tourism, business, or family visits. Core requirements include:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity beyond stay)
- Completed IMM 5257 form
- Two passport-sized photos meeting IRCC specs
- Proof of funds (e.g., 4–6 months bank statements, pay slips)
- Travel itinerary & accommodation proof (flight bookings, hotel reservation or invitation letter)
- Biometrics (CAD 85) if not previously submitted
- No criminal record, good health, and intent to return home
Processing Time: 15–60 days depending on country and workload
Fees: CAD 100 (visa) + CAD 85 (biometrics)
2.2 Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
For travellers from visa-exempt countries (e.g., UK, EU), an eTA replaces the TRV:
- Passport with validity beyond travel period
- Online eTA application + CAD 7 fee
- No need for visa or biometrics in most cases
Check your passport-country eligibility on IRCC’s site
2.3 Study Permit (Student Visa)
Students enrolling at Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) need a study permit (not just a TRV):
- Acceptance letter from a DLI
- Proof of funds (tuition + CAD 20,000 GIC for Indian students under SDS)
- Biometrics (CAD 85)
- Medical exam and police clearance (if required)
- Language test results (IELTS/TEF) if necessary
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) for programs starting Fall 2025 onward
Recent Changes:
- SDS discontinued—global review required for all students
- GIC raised to CAD 20,635 from Fall 2025
2.4 Work Permit (Temporary Work Visa)
Work permit applicants require:
- Job offer letter from Canadian employer
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (if employer’s responsibility)
- Proof of qualifications, credentials
- Biometrics (CAD 85)
- Passport + clear criminal/medical records
Work permits can be tied to study permits (SOWP for spouses) or open permits, depending on circumstances.
3. Document Checklist by Visa Type
Visa Type | Key Documents |
Visitor TRV | Passport, IMM 5257, photos, proof of funds, itinerary, accommodation, biometrics receipt |
eTA | Passport only |
Study Permit | Admission letter, passport, funds proof, GIC, biometrics, medical/police documents, PAL (Fall 2025 onward) |
Work Permit | Job offer, LMIA (if needed), passport, biometrics, credentials |
Always include your purpose of visit, home ties (employment, family, property), and travel/health insurance.
4. Recent 2025 Updates You Need to Know
🔹 Stricter Entry Scrutiny
IRCC now grants officers greater power to cancel eTAs and visas if eligibility changes, including fraud or false declarations.
🔹 Visitor Visa Validity
Fewer long-term multi-entry visas; more applicants receive single-entry or short-term validity .
🔹 Student Permit Overhaul
SDS closure, PAL implementation, and GIC increase reflect more stringent verification for international scholarships and study intentions.
5. Step-by-Step Application Process (Visitor Example)
- Determine visa type (eTA vs TRV) based on nationality
- Create IRCC account online
- Fill the correct application form (IMM 5257 for visitors)
- Upload clear scanned documents
- Pay CAD 100 + CAD 85 for biometrics
- Book biometrics appointment at VAC
- Await Decision – 15–60 days depending on location and volume
- Submit passport for stamping if visa is approved
Travel to Canada with visa and supporting documents
6. Tips to Maximise Approval Chances
- Apply well in advance—especially given processing delays
- Maintain at least 4–6 months of clear financial statements
- Emphasize ties to home country to satisfy IRCC intent to return
- Include invitation letters for family visits or official trips
- Use certified translations for non-English/French documents
- Choose DLIs with good compliance records for students
- Keep updated on IRCC policy changes, especially for student permi
7. Phoenix GRS: Your Trusted Canada Visa Partner 🇨🇦
With over 70,000 successful visas and strong IRCC ties, Phoenix GRS simplifies your journey to Canada.
🔷 Our Services
- Free initial eligibility evaluation
- Complete guidance for TRV, eTA, study and work permits, and PR
- Detailed document preparation and compliance checks
- Exclusive coaching for PAL, GIC, and biometrics
- Timely updates on policy changes and regulations
Post-landing support: bank accounts, accommodation, SIN card, etc.
Contact Phoenix GRS
Phoenix Global Resettlement Services
📍 Address: 2nd Floor, KMJ Identity, Post Office, No.515, 20th Main Rd, above Chaayos, Koramangala 8th Block, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560095
- 📞 Phone:+91 9071570020
+91 9164373352
- ✉️ Email: [email protected]
8. Conclusion
Understanding the requirements for Canada visa in 2025 can feel daunting—but with the right approach, it’s manageable. Whether it’s a visitor visa, study permit, or work authorization, IRCC expects strong documentation, clear intent, and compliance. Start early, stay organized, and leverage expert support to boost your chances.
At Phoenix GRS, we pride ourselves on being a reliable, transparent, and informed partner in your Canadian visa journey. Reach out today—we’re here to turn your Canadian dream into reality.
