Canada is one of the most popular countries for tourism, teaching, jobs and immigration. To visit Canada, many foreigners need a visa, which is an official permit to enter and stay in the country for a certain period. In this article we will tell you about: types of visas for different travel purposes; the visa application process; tips for successful visa application. 
Types of visas for different travel purposes
Depending on that, for what purpose you want to go to Canada, you may need one of the following visa types, which you can get on the website https://canada-visa.com.ua/ (Canada-Visa company):
- Guest visa (visitor visa): it grants the right to stay in Canada for three years instead of the standard 6-month permit, as it was before. Visitor visa is suitable for those, who wants to travel, visit relatives or friends, participate in short-term courses or conferences.
- Study permit (study permit): it allows you to study in Canadian educational institutions on a full-time or part-time basis. To obtain a study permit, you must have a certificate of acceptance to an educational institution, sufficient funds to pay for education and accommodation, health insurance and proof thereof, that you plan to return to your country after graduation.
- Work permit (work permit): it gives the opportunity to work in Canada in a certain profession. To obtain a work permit, you must have an offer of employment from a Canadian employer, who received a positive work permit (Labour Market Impact Assessment) or release from it, medical examination and proof thereof, that you plan to return to your country after the end of the contract.
- Electronic travel authorization (electronic travel authorization): this is a special document for citizens of countries, who are exempt from the visa regime with Canada, who can travel to Canada without a visa, but need an electronic travel permit. Electronic travel authorization (etc) can be obtained online in a few minutes and is valid for five years or until the passport expires. Electronic travel authorization (etc) suitable for those, who wants to visit Canada on business, tourist or transit purposes.
Visa application process
If you want to apply for a visa to Canada, you need to fill out an online form on the website of the Ministry of Immigration, refugees and Canadian citizenship (IRCC), provide the necessary documents, pay fees and undergo biometric identification (fingerprints and photo). Application processing terms may vary depending on the type of visa, country of origin and selected method of submission. You may also need to undergo a medical examination or an interview with a Canadian officer. If your application is approved, you will be instructed to do so, how to get your visa or electronic travel authorization (etc).
Here are the main steps of the visa application process:
- Determine your purpose of travel and type of visa, which you need.
- Specify your country of origin and how to apply (online or on paper).
- Download the online application form on the IRCC website or pick up a paper package from your nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.
- Fill out the application form, following the instructions and check it for errors.
- Collect the necessary documents, such as a passport, photo, letter- invitation, bank statements, etc.
- Pay the processing fee online or at the bank.
- Sign up for a biometric examination at the nearest center.
- Submit your application online or by mail to the appropriate Canadian visa application center or embassy.
- Wait for a decision on your application, which can take from several days to several months, depending on the type of visa and circumstances.
- Get your visa or electronic travel authorization (etc) to your email address or mail. Check the validity dates and conditions of your travel authorization.
- Prepare for your trip to Canada, having provided himself with everything necessary, such as tickets, insurance, money, medicines etc.
- Arrive in Canada and present your visa or electronic travel authorization (etc) together with the passport to a Canadian border officer. You may also be asked some questions about your purpose of travel and length of stay.
Tips for successfully obtaining a visa
Getting a visa to Canada is not always easy, but you can increase your chances, if you follow the following tips:
- Start preparing for your application in advance, to have enough time to collect documents, payment of fees and biometric examination.
- Fill out the application form carefully and correctly, avoid errors and omissions. Provide complete and true information about yourself and the purpose of your trip.
- Provide reliable evidence of your financial and social ties to the country of origin, such as bank statements, real estate, work, family, etc. This will help show, that you do not intend to remain in Canada illegally or seek asylum.
- Provide an invitation letter from relatives, friends or employer in Canada, if there is one. The invitation letter must contain contact details of the inviter, your data, the purpose and duration of your stay in Canada and a promise to provide you with financial or other support, if necessary.
- Get medical examination and health insurance, if required for your visa type. The medical examination must be carried out in an accredited clinic, and health insurance must cover all possible costs of treatment and hospitalization in Canada.
- Be prepared for an interview with a Canadian officer, if required for your visa type. Prepare to answer questions about yourself, the purpose of the trip, your plans in Canada and your ties to your country of origin. Be honest, polite and confident.
Canada is a great country for a vacation, teaching, work and life. If you dream of a trip to Canada, don't forget to check your visa requirements and plan your trip well in advance. We wish you success!