All About Multiple Entry Visas in Canada and How to Apply

Looking for a visa that allows you to explore the wonders of Canada on multiple occasions? Our comprehensive guide on Multiple Entry visas in Canada will alleviate your travel woes. This blog aims to provide you with valuable insights and step-by-step instructions on obtaining a Multiple Entry Visa, enabling you to visit Canada multiple times without the need for frequent visa applications.

What is Multiple Entry Visa Canada and Who Needs it?

Multiple entry visas in Canada also known as temporary resident visas/Visitor visas are designed for foreign nationals who require the flexibility to enter and exit the country multiple times within a 10-year period. Multiple entry Visa Canada allows you to stay for up to six months each time you visit.

Multiple entry visas may be required under the following circumstances:

• Non-Canadian citizens and non-permanent residents require a visitor visa to enter Canada unless they are visa-exempt.
• Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for a visitor visa; they need to apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) instead.
• Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, do not need a visitor visa and must travel with a valid Canadian passport.
• If you are transiting through Canada or visiting for business purposes (not as a temporary foreign worker), you may need a business visitor visa.

Who is Eligible for the Multiple Entry Visa to Canada?

To be eligible for a temporary resident visa in Canada, you must demonstrate to the visa officer that you meet the requirements outlined in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.

Here are the key considerations for determining eligibility:

1. Purpose of Visit: The applicant must have a valid reason for their visit to Canada, such as tourism, business, family visit, or medical treatment.
2. Intended Duration of Stay: The applicant should demonstrate that their stay in Canada will be temporary and they have plans to return to their home country after the visit.
3. Financial Ability: The applicant must show that they have sufficient funds to cover their expenses during their stay in Canada, including accommodation, transportation, and living costs.
4. Strong Ties to Home Country: It is important to prove that the applicant has strong ties to their home country, such as employment, property, family, or other commitments, to ensure their intention to return after their visit to Canada.
5. Adherence to Immigration Laws: The applicant must have a clean immigration record and demonstrate their willingness to abide by Canadian immigration laws and regulations.
6. Medical and Security Clearances: The applicant may be required to undergo medical examinations and security clearances to ensure they do not pose any health or security risks to Canada.

Read this blog to know more about which medical test one has to undergo for Canadian immigration.

What are the Document Requirements for a Multiple Entry Visa in Canada?

Canada visitor visas are long-term visas for a period of 5-10 years. Below is the Canada multiple entry visa documents checklist.

1. Travel history (optional): Copies of previous visas in your passport, showing your travel history to Canada or other countries.
2. Itinerary (optional): Documents demonstrating your planned duration of stay and activities in Canada.
3. Account statement (optional): Provide financial evidence to show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Canada.
4. Identity document: Acceptable documents include passports from most countries.
5. Your Declaration Letter explaining why the Government of Canada should grant you a Tourist Visa.
6. Submit Form IMM 5476 if family members or third parties are applying on behalf of the applicant.
7. Submit Form IMM 5475 to authorize the release of your personal information to a designated individual who can access information about your application status.
8. Each applicant aged 18 or older must complete Form IMM 5645, providing relevant family information.
9. Minor children (if applicable): Additional documents are required depending on whether the child under 18 years of age will travel with one parent, with a relative or friend, or alone.

Note: The optional documents mentioned above in Canada multiple entry visa requirements are not mandatory but can be submitted to provide additional supporting information for your visa application.

Canada 10-year Multiple Entry Visa Documents Requirements

The Canada 10-year multiple entry tourist visa is valid for up to 10 years or until the passport's expiration date, whichever is earlier. Below are the requirements

• Complete the required paperwork and include all necessary supporting documents when applying for a multiple-entry temporary resident visa.
• Pay the application fees as required.
• Remember that you must apply for a visa from outside of Canada; it is not possible to apply upon arrival.
• If you have family members also applying to visit Canada, each person must complete a separate application form, but you can mail the applications together and use a single payment receipt for the total fee.

Difference Between Single Entry and Multiple Entry Visa to Canada

The below image illustrates the difference between a Multiple Entry Visa and Single Entry Visa in Canada

Also Read: A Detailed Guide on Canada Visa Fees in 2023

How to Apply for a Canada Multiple Entry Visa?

Below are the steps that you must follow to apply for the 10-year multiple-entry visa Canada/visitor visa.

Step 1: Gather the required documents

• Review the list of documents (as given above) based on your specific situation to ensure you meet the criteria for a visitor visa.

Step 2: Complete the application form

• You can fill out the application form online or on paper. Make sure to provide accurate and complete information, and answer all questions truthfully.

Step 3: Provide biometrics (fingerprint and photo)

• Schedule an appointment at the nearest visa application center (VAC) for biometrics collection.

Step 4: Application processing

• Immigration officials will review your application to ensure all required documents are included.
• If any information is incomplete or missing, your application may be returned without processing.

Step 5: Approval and passport submission

• If your application is approved, you will receive instructions on how to submit your passport.
• Follow the provided instructions to send your passport to the designated authorities.

Step 6: Prepare for travel and arrival in Canada

• Carry the necessary documents submitted with your visa application and any additional documents recommended by the border services officer.
• Be prepared to present these documents upon arrival in Canada.

Canada Multiple Entry Visa ProcessingTime

The processing time for a Canada visitor visa application may vary based on the following factors such as:

• The volume of applications,
• The complexity of the application
• The location from where you are applying

Generally, it takes around 2-4 weeks for processing from the day of application submission.

As of 2023, the estimated processing time for a Canadian visitor visa submitted at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) from India is approximately:

• 28 days for Online Applications
• 34 days for paper applications submitted

Canada Multiple Entry Visa Fees

The Canada visitor visa fee for multiple entries is CAD 185 as of 2023. However, it can vary and is influenced by factors such as the applicant's nationality, the type of visa being applied for, and the location of application submission.

Below is the breakdown of the fee structure.

Experience the Beauty of Canada with a Multiple Entry Visa

In conclusion, a multiple-entry visa to Canada opens up a world of possibilities for travelers, allowing them to visit the country multiple times within the visa's validity period. Whether it's for leisure, business, or visiting loved ones, this type of visa provides flexibility and convenience.

With GetGIS, you can navigate the visa application process with ease and expertise. Our experienced consultants will guide you through the requirements, documentation, and application, ensuring a smooth and successful visa journey.