Here’s how we got our Canadian Visa! A step-by-step ONLINE application guide with complete list of requirements, biometrics procedure, and other visa tips for tourists.
Applying for a Canadian visa is actually pretty simple and easy. But when I began my application, I found the whole process a bit daunting. The disconnect, I believe, comes from the visa application website. What is supposed to be an easy procedure becomes overwhelming and a bit arduous because the layout of the website and the user journey are complicated and somewhat confusing. I have been living and breathing digital for the past 10 years of my life, yet I still ended up lost and confused a few times along the way.
When I applied for a Canadian visa, I documented every step of the process in order to help guide the readers of this blog. When you break it down to the requirements and basic steps, it really is pretty straightforward. Filipinos can apply for a Canadian Visa in three ways: online, by mail, and in person. This guide focuses on online application, but you may still have to visit the Canada Visa Application Center to submit your biometrics.
WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?
CANADIAN VISA REQUIREMENTS
1. Accomplished IMM5257 Form
- This is the Application for Visitor Visa Form
- You can download it from here: Form IMM5257.
- Fill it out digitally. You don’t need to print it out or sign it.
- View the form using Adobe Acrobat. When you view the forms online, sometimes the file won’t load at all, displaying a “Please wait” message instead, especially if you’re using Chrome or Firefox. (Yep, it’s best accessed using IE.) Download it anyway. When you open it using a PDF reader such as Adobe Acrobat Reader DC or Adobe Acrobat 8 Professional, you’ll see that the form is actually there. Fill it out using Acrobat.
- Leave the signature field blank. I struggled so hard finding a way to be able to type on the Signature field, but it turned out that I didn’t have to. You will be providing your electronic signature later in the process (when you’re submitting the form).
2. Accomplished Family Information Form
- Sometimes, it’s the IMM5645E Form. Sometimes, it’s the IMM5707 Form. Both are Family Information Forms. To be safe, submit the form that is indicated in your Document Checklist. In my case, I was asked for the IMM5645E form.
- You can download it from here: IMM5654E.
- Fill it out electronically. Same with the Application Form, if the page doesn’t load, use Acrobat Reader. And don’t sign it. You will be asked for a digital signature later in the application process.
3. Valid Passport
- Scanned copy of the bio page and all pages with visas and stamps.
- Your passport must have at least 6 months validity and signature. If you’re using a new 10-year e-passport, you can find the signature field on Page 3, the page next to the Information Page. If you’re using a 5-year e-passport, the bio page already has a digital signature so NO NEED to sign it again.
4. Digital photo
- Passport-size (35mm x 45mm).
- White background.
- Specs here: Canada Visa Photo
- The website indicated “scanned” when I applied, but I uploaded a soft copy of the photo instead.
5. Proof of Purpose of Travel
Submit proof that you are coming to Canada for a TEMPORARY visit. You can submit any or all of the following:
- flight ticket departing Canada (return or onward ticket)
- your travel itinerary
- hotel booking
You don’t need to submit actual tickets. You can submit flight or hotel reservations, which you can cancel in case your application is denied (so you don’t have to waste money). A few airlines allow flight blocking (although I haven’t tried any of them) and some hotel booking websites have free-cancellation policy. Travel agencies can also issue these reservation documents.
You can find one here: FLIGHT & HOTEL RESERVATIONS
IF YOU’RE INVITED BY A CITIZEN IN CANADA, you will ALSO need to provide the following:
- invitation letter
- a copy of their citizen card
- payslips or tax docs
6. Travel History
Scanned. This can be any or all of the following:
- previous passports used within the last 10 years
- expired and valid visas
- entrance and exit stamps
If you’re living outside your country of citizenship, submit a copy of your immigration status document.
7. Proof of Means of Financial Support
Scanned copies of any or all of the following:
- Bank statement for the past 4 months
- a Certificate of Employment
- Income Tax Returns (ITR)
- proof of assets (land titles, etc.).
If you’re a student: you must also submit proof of payment of tuition and accommodation fees.
If someone else is funding your trip: also submit a letter from the person or institution providing you with money.
8. Business Registration Documents
Only if you’re self-employed or if you’re traveling for business.
You can submit SEC, DTI, or BIR registration documents, as long as it indicates the registered name of the business, the business address, and type of ownership.
9. Letter of explanation
This is optional. It’s not really a requirement, but if you wish to provide more info about the trip, you can submit a letter of explanation.
I wrote a letter explaining why I want to visit Canada and the details of my trip. It’s short and straight to the point.
10. Visa Fee and Biometrics Fee
Visa Fee: CAD 100. MasterCard, Visa, and American Express cards are accepted.
Biometrics Fee: CAD 85. MasterCard, Visa, and American Express cards are accepted.
Important Reminders
Here are a few notes that will make your application easier:
- ANY or ALL. You’ll notice that in the list of requirements above, I keep on using the phrase “any or all of these documents.” It’s because in theory, you can submit just one item per document type. However, if you want better chances of approval, we strongly recommend submitting everything that you can provide.
- Only the following file types are accepted: PDF (Portable Document), JPG, TIFF, or PNG (Image), DOC or DOCX (Microsoft Word Document).
- Only one file will be allowed per requirement.
– For example, for proof of means of financial support, if you want to submit a Certificate of Employment, ITR copy, AND proof of assets, make sure they’re in one file. If all your files are in PDF format, you can use apps like Adobe Acrobat to merge all the pages. If they’re image files, you can also insert all of them in a Word document to generate a single file.
– Another example, travel history. If you are want to submit multiple pages of your passport to show the different visas and stamps, you must scan and save all pages as only one file. - The size of each file must NOT exceed 4MB. That’s the maximum size. If your file exceeds, you need to reduce the size. Know that PDF files tend to be smaller in size than Word (doc) files. If your PDF files are still over, recreate your files with Adobe Distiller and set to “lowest file size.” Set it to only 96 DPI (dots per inch).
- Make sure your documents are complete. You won’t be able to submit your application if any of the required files is missing.
HOW TO APPLY FOR A CANADA VISA ONLINE
1. Create a GCKey (CIC Account).
What is a GCKey? It’s an account that would let you securely access the online services of the Government of Canada, including the CIC, which stands for Citoyenneté et Immigration Canada (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada), the government agency that will be handling your application. You will be asked to create a username, password, and security questions.
Here’s how to create a GCKey/CIC account:
- Visit the registration page of the CIC here: CIC Register. Click on GCKey at the bottom of the screen.
- Click SIGN UP (on the right side of the screen) on the next page.
- Accept the terms and conditions on the next page.
- Create an account. Provide your full name, email address, desired username, password, and security questions and answers. Take note of these details because you will be entering these bits of info many times during the process.
- On the next page, click “VISITOR VISA, STUDY AND/OR WORK PERMIT”. If you are logged out, you will have to log in again. Then, you will be directed to your Accounts Dashboard where you’ll see a list of applications. Since your account is new, the list is empty. Towards the bottom, you’ll find a “START YOUR APPLICATION” section. Click on “APPLY TO COME TO CANADA.”
- On the next page, you will be asked if you have a Personal Reference Code. Under “I do not have a Personal Reference Code,” click “VISITOR VISA, STUDY AND/OR WORK PERMIT”.
- Find out if you’re eligible. You will be asked a series of questions about your trip and your background: how long is your trip, what province will you be visiting, have you been arrested for or convicted of any crime, have you overstayed a visa before? Just answer truthfully. You will also be asked whether or not you have a family member who is a citizen or permanent resident of Canada. If everything is alright, the next page will tell you that you are eligible for a VISITOR VISA. Click CONTINUE. On the next page, click CONTINUE again.
2. Upload your documents.
You will be asked to review all the information you entered in the previous step. Check if things are as they should be, and then click CONTINUE.
You will be presented with a Personal Document Checklist, which displays all the required documents that you need to upload. It looks like this:
To upload, simply click on the corresponding UPLOAD button on the right side.
You don’t need to upload the documents all at once. If you feel like you can’t complete it today, you can simply log out and log in another day. You have 30 days to complete the requirements.
Again, reminders:
- Only the following file types are accepted: PDF, JPG, TIFF, PNG, DOC, DOCX
- Only one file will be allowed per requirement. If you are want to submit multiple pages of your passport to show the different visas and stamps, you must scan and save all pages as only one file.
- The size of each file must NOT exceed 4MB.
- Make sure your documents are complete. You won’t be able to see the SUBMIT or CONTINUE button if any of the required files is missing.
Once you have completed the requirements and submitted your application, you will be prompted for an electronic signature. You don’t need to scan your signature or anything. You simply have to enter your full name. That’s your electronic signature. Just type your name.
3. Pay the Visa and Biometrics Fee.
Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are all accepted. Again, here are the fees:
- Visa Fee. CAD 100. MasterCard, Visa, and American Express cards are accepted.
- Biometrics Fee. CAD 85. MasterCard, Visa, and American Express cards are accepted.
Just enter your card details and click Process Transaction. It may take a while to process so be patient. Don’t click that button again because you might be double-charged.
Within a few hours, you will receive an email containing your Application Number. It starts with letter V and then a series of numbers.
You will also receive instructions to submit your biometrics.
4. Submit your biometrics.
Effective December 31, 2018, visa applicants from Asia, Asia Pacific and the Americas are now required to submit biometrics. This is a new requirement. When I applied, this was not yet implemented.
But thanks to the members of our Facebook Support Group who recently applied, we have the details and we’re sharing them with you.
Note that if you have submitted your biometrics before and they are still valid, you don’t need to submit biometrics. But if you received a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL), then you have to visit the Visa Application Centre usually within the next 30 days so they could collect your biometric data. The letter has instructions already, but here it is.
- Set an appointment for biometrics submission. More information on this page.
- Check your email. Once you have secured a schedule, you will receive an Appointment Letter indicating the date and time of your appointment, and the address of the Canada Visa Application Center. It will also tell you if you need to bring anything.
- On your appointment date, show up at the Canada Visa Application Center 15 minutes before your schedule. If you’re asked to bring some documents, don’t forget to have them with you.
Here are the addresses of the Canada Visa Application Centers:
MAKATI CITY
Canada Visa Application Centre
VFS Services Phils. Pvt. Inc.
29th Floor The World Center Bldg
330 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City
Schedule of Biometric Submission: 07:00am – 03:00pm
CEBU CITY
Canada Visa Application Centre
VFS Services Phils. Pvt. Inc.
9F Keppel Center Unit 905 Samar Loop cor Cardinal Rosales Ave,
Cebu Business Park
Cebu City 6000
Schedule of Biometric Submission: 07:00am – 03:00pm
Special thanks to the members of our Facebook Support Group, especially Kate Villanueva and Mary Thrasher, for providing these details.
5. Wait for updates.
From hereon, you will be getting a message each time there is an update to your application. The first few messages will be updates that your application has been received.
To read your messages, follow these steps:
- Visit the CIC Login page and click on GCKey again here.
- Enter your username and password. You will also be asked to answer a security question.
- On the next page is a summary of your application. Scroll down toward the bottom. Under “View My Submitted Application”, click the Check Status and Messages button.
- On the next page, info about the application is displayed. Scroll down to the bottom again. Under Correspondence, you will see the messages. Click on the Expand button and it will reveal a “View this message” link. When you click it, a PDF document will be automatically downloaded.
6. Submit your passport.
If your application is denied, you will receive an email telling you just that.
If your application is approved, you will receive a message that they have come to a decision regarding your application and they are requesting that you submit your passport.
You have two options: by mail of in person.
If in person
- Print out the passport request letter you received from IRCC/CIC. Make sure that the barcodes and application number are clear. You will bring this and your passport to the VFS Office/ Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC).
- Go to Canada Visa Application Centre (address below). At the CVAC Office, the guard will give you a number and 2 forms: a personal info form and a VAC Consent Form. While waiting for your number to be called, fill out the forms.
- When your number is called submit all the requirements:
– Passport
– Request Letter from IRCC/CIC
– Personal info form
– VAC Consent Form. You can also download here - Pay the CVAC handling fee. P543.15 according to the website. But in reality, I was charged P905 (cash), perhaps including the courier charges. Check out the list of fees and service charges here
If by mail
It’s a bit more complicated. here’s the complete step-by-step guide: Submission by Mail
According to the staff I talked to, the passport will be ready in 2 weeks, but she also said that it usually takes much shorter than that.
Below are the addresses of the visa centers for Canada:
MANILA
Canada Visa Application Centre
29F The World Center
350 Senator Gil Puyat Avenue
Makati City, Philippines
Operating Hours
Passport Submission: 7am – 3pm
Passport Collection: 7am – 3pm
CEBU
Canada Visa Application Centre
VFS Services Phils. Pvt. Inc.
9F Keppel Center Unit 905 Samar Loop cor Cardinal Rosales Ave,
Cebu Business Park
Cebu City 6000
Philippines
Operating Hours
Passport Submission: 7am – 3pm
Passport Collection: 7am – 3pm
That’s it! Once it has your visa, you may receive your passport by mail or collect it at the CVAC office, depending on what you paid for.
Enjoy Canada!
Search for Hotels: Canada Hotels
CANADIAN VISA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does the whole Canada Visa process take?
It varies. Case-by-case basis. It can take as short as two weeks or as long as months. In my case, the entire process from the moment I submitted my application to the moment I received my passport spanned 16 days. Here’s my timeline:
- June 27: I created a CIC account and submitted my application online.
- June 28: I received an update that my application has been received/read.
- July 5: I received an update that they have made a decision and that I should submit my passport.
- July 6: I went to VFS to submit my passport in person.
- July 11: I received an SMS from VFS that my passport with the visa is ready and to be delivered.
- July 12: I received my passport with a multiple-entry visa.
How early should I apply for a Canadian visa?
3 months in advance, to be safe.
Although mine took only 2 weeks, I know people whose waiting game lasted for over a month! So to be safe, I would say 3 months in advance is ideal.
How long is the validity of Canada visa?
I’m not sure if this is standard, but I was given a multiple-entry Canada visa that is valid for until the end of my passport’s validity. In my case, 2 years.
Any recommendations on how to save up for a trip to Canada?
Use LISTA, a mobile app that will help you watch your spending before and during the trip.
Although it was originally created for tracking expenses, it has a SAVINGS CHALLENGE feature. To use it, you need to enter the target amount that you need to have for the trip. You’ll be asked to choose the saving frequency that you’re most comfortable with. Think of it as a saving buddy that will remind you how close you are to your travel goal! Not only will it motivate you to save, it will also get you excited about your trip.
To be honest, we didn’t know about LISTA until they approached and partnered with us to give it a try and see for ourselves. And we were hooked. We have been using it to track our spending and savings!
To be clear, this is NOT a requirement when applying for a Canadian visa. But it could help you watch your finances especially if you have yet to take care of your funds for this trip.
May next trip ka na ba? I-LISTA mo na!
I keep on getting “Please wait” when I open the form. What can I do?
Regarding IMM5257 and IMM5645E Forms: When you view the forms online, sometimes the file won’t load at all, displaying a “Please wait” message instead, especially if you’re using Chrome or Firefox. (Yep, it’s best accessed using IE.) Download it anyway here:
- Form IMM5257: Download here.
- Form IMM5645E: Download here.
HOW TO DOWNLOAD
- If you’re using Chrome, right click on the page and choose SAVE AS. Save the document as PDF.
- If you’re using Firefox, the link will automatically prompt a download window. Choose SAVE FILE and click OK.
After downloading, open it using a PDF reader such as Adobe Acrobat Reader DC or Adobe Acrobat 8 Professional. You’ll see that the form is actually there. It’s just not compatible with other programs.
How do I add my signature to the form? Do I need to print out the form?
Ha! Not reading well. I explained it twice above. But okay, I’ll explain it again.
Leave the signature field blank. You don’t need to print out or sign the form by hand. You don’t need to type anything in the signature field.
Upload the form with the signature field blank. You will be providing your electronic signature later in the process. After you have completed the requirements and submitted your application, you will be prompted for an electronic signature.
Once prompted, you simply have to enter your full name. That’s your electronic signature. Just type your name. No need to actually sign anything.
I struggled so hard finding a way to be able to type on the Signature field, but it turned out that I didn’t have to.
Can I use just 1 GCKey for my family members who are traveling with me?
According to some of our readers who have tried it, you can.
When you start your application, you will be asked if you are also applying for a family member. They say that if you answer yes, your checklist will include requirements for them too.
I haven’t tried this personally so I’m not really sure, but that’s what they say.
What is UCI number? What do I write in the UCI field on the application form?
UCI stands for Universal Client Identification number, an 8-digit or 10-digit number given to anyone who has made a transaction with Canada Immigration/CIC. Every individual gets their own unique number.
If it’s your first time to apply for a Canadian visa or anything issued by CIC, you don’t have a UCI number yet, so you can write NOT APPLICABLE or N/A in the UCI field. If the form doesn’t accept N/A or NOT APPLICABLE, you can leave it blank. I left mine blank.
If you have been issued a Canadian visa before, you have your own UCI number. Check your account to see it.
What is Form IMM 5257 Schedule 1? Do I have to submit it?
When you reach the UPLOADING stage of the application, you’ll find under the Optional Documents an item called Schedule 1 – Application for a Temporary Resident Visa Made Outside Canada (IMM 5257).
We get a lot of questions about whether or not it is the same as the actual application form 5257. The answer is NO. Schedule 1 of IMM5257 is different from the actual Form IMM 5257. It’s a supplementary form that asks for military and government service history that you need to fill out ONLY IF you answer YES to any of the questions under the BACKGROUND INFORMATION SECTION of the actual IMM 5257 form (pages 3-4). You don’t need to fill it out if it doesn’t apply to you. (I didn’t submit that form.)
What’s the difference between Family Information Form IMM5645E and IMM5707? Which should I submit?
Both are Family Information Forms. Some applicants are required to submit IMM5645E. Some are asked for an IMM5707 Form. Who needs to submit what is not clear. But the right form is whatever is written on your Documents Checklist.
In my case, my checklist included the IMM5645E Form, so that’s what I submitted. On the other hand, I have friends that were asked to submit the IMM5707 Form. It varies. Just submit whatever is written in your checklist.
I received a message asking me to submit my passport. Does that mean my application is approved?
Most probably. According to the VFS person I talked to, it’s almost always the case. If you’re refused a visa, you will simply receive an email saying that your application has been denied.
How much money should I have in the bank to get approved?
Hmmm, I don’t know for sure. But like I said in my previous visa posts for other countries, the rule of thumb is to always add the cost of the flights, cost of hotel accommodations, and an allowance of probably USD70 per day.
Every country has its own daily allowance requirement. Most Schengen countries require around EUR60 per day, so we can assume that Canada’s is probably around that figure too. Add all those and that should be the minimum amount in your bank. Minimum, because of course, that can’t be the only amount in your account. You can’t be broke after your trip and expect the embassy to approve your application.
Because of this, my personal rule is P10,000 per day of stay + cost of hotel + airfare.
What does a Canada Visa look like?
Like this:
Do I really need plane tickets before applying? What if I get denied? Sayang the moolah.
As mentioned above, you don’t need plane tickets. You can submit just an itinerary or a cover letter, if you think you have a strong reason to visit. Again, it’s ANY or ALL of the items in the list.
HOWEVER, if you want better chances of getting approved, you can submit flight and hotel reservations. These are different from actual tickets or bookings. “Reservations” are just proof that you have blocked these plane seats or rooms, and you can cancel these in case your application is denied (so you don’t have to waste money). A few airlines allow flight blocking (although I haven’t tried any of them) and some hotel booking websites have free-cancellation policy.
Travel agencies can also issue these reservation documents. If you don’t have time to go to a travel agency, you can have it reserved online. When we apply for hard-to-get visas like Canada and Schengen, we hire Gazelle Travel and Tours, a DTI-registered and DOT-accredited agency. We created a form here so you can contact them completely ONLINE:
✅ GET FLIGHT RESERVATIONS HERE
✅ GET FLIGHT RESERVATIONS HERE
What are the reasons why my application would be denied?
This applies not just to Canada Visa but also other developed countries. The reason is often any of the following:
- You can’t prove that you can financially support yourself on this trip. You probably have insufficient funds or your sponsor is not in a good financial standing.
- You can’t prove that you intend to return to your home country (rootedness). You probably don’t have a stable job at this point, newly employed, or newly resigned, and it’s giving the impression that you intend to work there.
- Your intention/purpose in Canada is unclear. This is why it is best to be specific when you’re detailing the reasons for your visit.
More info here: Reasons Why Visa Applications are Denied
My monthly salary is this much, my money in the bank is this much, and I will be submitting these documents. What are my chances of visa approval?
It is incredibly difficult to say, especially with very limited information. And even if you give me more details, it will still be tough. There are way too many factors at play here.
The truth is, no one and nothing can guarantee approval. The only person who can answer this question is the visa officer evaluating your application.
Sometimes, no matter how qualified you think you are, you can still end up denied getting refused.
This post is based on my own application as a tourist in Canada, so if you have questions about anything outside my personal experience or if you’re applying to work there, I’m afraid I won’t be of assistance. But feel free to post them in the comments section below because some of our readers might help.
2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣0️⃣ • 1️⃣ • 1️⃣7️⃣ (Last updated)
Hi. Thanks for sharing your visa application experience! Big help. :) One question though, how long did it take for your visa to get approved?
Hi, I submit and pay the application online. I didn’t received any email. Then few hours later may application is appearing in my online account under continue application? What does it mean? The payment didn’t push throuh?
What’s the difference between the Application Form in the first upload to that Schedule 1 second to the last upload? Same ba? I tried to upload the same validated application IMM5257
but error! thanks
Hi Meligrer. Schedule 1 of IMM5257 is different from the actual Form IMM 5257. It’s a supplementary form that you need to fill out ONLY IF you answer YES to any of the questions under the BACKGROUND INFORMATION SECTION of the IMM 5257 form (pages 3-4). You don’t need to fill it out if it doesn’t apply to you. (I didn’t submit that form.)
Thanks for this question though. I’ll include this in the FAQs above.
Based on what I read from the list of requirements needed to upload, you need to have a business registration, what if you dont have?
Thank you in advance for any clarification or infos you can share with me.
I was reading your blog about Canadian application visa.. I wanted to ask if you could help me how to make itineraries .. I’m planning to apply tourist visa this week.. and for the bank statement , is there any specific amount on your bank? Your respondents is highly appreciated. Thank you in advance.
Hi, how much did you have in your bank? Was your visa application approved?
Hi Sir,
i would like to ask im currently working in kuwait and applying in canada but now im on vacation and them my biometric schedule is come can i take this in philippines because the deadline im still in philippines. If i take here is there any future problem when requesting the visa stamp where i will send in place where my biometric done or i can send in kuwait VFS thanks hope to hear you soon.
Hi Allice, di ko po alam kapag ganyang case. Best to call na lang po VFS para sure.
Hi Yoshke,
Thank you for your guide in applying candian tourist visa, actually i red it first before i submit my application online, but up until now after im done with the biometrics i have no updated status of my application, i applied last may 16, done biometrics may 24 and no decision yet. I tried to email vfc to follow up they told me that if i applied online just wait for notice thru my email and reminded me to check my email from time to time. You think theres a way i can follow up direct to the embassy?
Hi Nina,
Till now wala pa din. Ako din plan ko august 5.
Hi Khaye,
Did you get your approval already or any kind of update on your application? I applied June 19 and gave my biometrics last June 24 but no update yet until now. I’m renewing my expired tourist visa (valid May 5, 2019). I’m planning to go by Aug 3 and I’m worried now that I won’t make it.
Thanks!
Nina
Have you checked your cic Canada account. Sometimes they don’t send emails, they just update your status through your account
Hi Khaye, naku, I’m not aware of any way to follow them up. I just waited kasi for updates sa dashboard. :S
Hi Yoshke 00
I just wanted to say how very useful your visa guides are! i often travel, but often check your guides to see if i am doing the right thing. Thank you so much!
Hello,
I got refused on my student visa. I want to re apply again thru online but i dont know how. As of now i have complete documents. Do i need to re upload again all the files?? Thank you
Thank you for taking the time to write this! :)
The answer is there in his story, almost 16 days, refer to the timeline
I’m preparing for my Canadian visa application and i’m having the same confusion as what you mentioned at the start of this article. I’m actually considering asking assistance from a travel agency. Good thing my brother shared this to me. It has answered a lot of my questions. Thank you soooo much for sharing this! :-)
Good luck to you and your adventures! :-)
Hi, Im currently applying for a Canadian tourist visa. However, when I start uploading the filled up forms, preview of the document being uploaded says “Please wait…” Have you encountered this? What did you do?
namaskar sir my Canada Jana Chahta Hoon tournament
Thanks for this article! I learned a lot!
About the validity of the visa, I was advised to have my passport renewed first before I apply because they would base your visas validity on your passport validity. So if your passport has only two years left before it expires, you will be given two years multiple entry.
Is this so in your case?
Hi Uma Arte!
Were you able to get confirmation or at least more information on this? My passport will expire in February 2019 and I’m planning to go to Canada around September 2018 so I was initially planning to apply in June 2018 (3 months before departure date). Would you recommend for me to just renew my passport by the end of this year, even if it’ll expire Feb 2019 pa? Thank you!!
You can renew your passports even a year earlier… that’s what i’ve been doing , no questions asked..
can i renew my passport even if it will expire on Sept 2020?
Yes. We have a valid passport until next year (2020) of Sept. and we renewed ours last April.
Thanks for sharing it helps me alot…
My brother is in Canada. I also have one cousin there. Will having a family-relative in Canada be a pro or con when applying for a tourist VISA?
it is an advantage in my experience.
how to apply if you have a family member who is a canadian resident
Hi! Thanks for this very informative blog. Anyway, I would like to ask if how soon should I send my passport to the embassy when I they notify me to send my passport? Hope you have an idea! Thanks!
Within 30 days of notice date.
you will be given 30 days to submit your passport from the day you received the notice.
thanks much for your help. See you Toronto in September!
Enjoy! :)
hello. the IMM5257 Form asked me the name of person or institution to visit. pro wala akong kakilaa sa canada. purely tourism lang talaga sadya ko dun. ano gagawin ko? hindi mavalidate yung form pag hindi ko nilagyan ang portion na yun. thanks
Write down your hotel name.
Hi Yoshke, kelangan ko po ba talaga ilagay sa person or institution to visit yung hotel namin? Thanks po!
That’s what I did.
just put the hotel name @ contacts info
hi, is it okay to submit target bookings only (not reserved but just chosen, will pay after grated a visa)? I don’t want to pay the airfare, accommodations and transportation tickets until granted my visa.
Hi Lyz, you don’t need to book the tickets yet but you can submit flight and hotel reservations. RESERVATIONS only, not actual booking, that you can cancel if you get denied. More info here: http://www.thepoortraveler.net/2017/06/flight-hotel-reservations-visa-application/
Hi! This flight reservation, since hindi pa sya paid, hindi kami hihingan ng official receipt or proof of payment ng immigration right? Are they aware about this method and understand that this is the best we can do to at least prove na may return date talaga to come back to the Philippines without wasting money in case madeny? Will they not see this as cheating? Hope to hear from you. Thanks so much!
Hi Jennifer,
Nope, it isn’t cheating. For visa application, flight reservations are generally accepted worldwide. In fact, even Schengen countries, the strictest of them all, discourage applicants from purchasing tickets kasi alam nila na pwedeng masayang. They actually encourage to reserve flights lang and not buy.
I tried communicating with them asking how much it will cost if I decide to continue with my reservation and get the ticket from them but they didn’t reply.
Thanks so much for your reply. That’s good to know. If I may ask another question, if we decide to get the reservation for immigration purpose from Gazelle, do we have a choice ba with them when the visa gets approved whether to continue buying the reserved ticket from them or buy it somewhere else? Lastly, kung may reservation kami sa Gazelle, pag nagcheck ba ang immigration sa airline na nakalagay sa reservation namin lalabas ba sa record nung airline na may reservation talaga? Coz I heard minsan tinatawagan daw nila to check if true yung reservation. Sensya na sa daming tanong ha. Thanks so much!
Hi Jennifer,
The reservation with Gazelle will be automatically cancelled unless you ask them to continue the booking.
And yep, legit reservation of flights ang ginagawa nila. Meron ka talagang booking code. But these days, airlines allow a few days na lang talaga to hold the flights. The actual duration nung paghold depends sa kung anong airline. But alam naman ng mga embassies yun.
Hi..
This is a very informative blog. Ask ko lang po, anong ilalagay ko sa item:
1.Name,address and relationshiop of any person(s) or institution I will visit?
2.Relationship to me
Walang ako kakilala po dun. I am traveling alone.
Ano po dapat ilagay dto?
Thanks in Advance.
Hi Roy! I just entered the name of the hotel where I would be staying and their address. Dun sa Relationship to Me, I don’t remember if I left it blank or I put N/A.
hi sir yoshke thanks for this blogs.. very informative..u think, 1000cad is enough funds for just three weeks for visit? am i convince the immigration officer for that funds that i have? tia
Hello, where could i get the personal info form and the vac cnsent form?
If you’re submitting the passport in person, you can get one sa VFS office. The guard will give you these forms upon entry.
If you’re submitting by mail, there will be a link on the website where you can download the forms.
Hi Yoshke!
i am one of the many who got help from this blog, thanks to you VFS just sent a message that we can submit our passprts for our approved visa. now my question is, can i just submit my child’s passport? may pasok kc school and i dont want her to be absent. we’re planning to submit kc personally (with my hubby). i dont know if my idea ka about this, she’s still a minor though, di nga sya pinabiometrics eh.
hope to hear from you soon.
God bless you :)
Hi Janet, thank you!
Pero wala po ako idea. :( Call VFS na lang po to be sure.
Hi Yoshke,
Do I need to have notarized the documents to be uploaded? Thank you!
I didn’t have any of my documents notarized. Tourist stream ung inapplyan ko.
Hello good afternoon hindi po ba mali yong nilagat namin sa privious occupation niya ay nag serve siya as barangay official for 3year, then sinunud namin ang pagiging volunter niya sa kalahi cids Dswd program as Barangay Bspmc at ang current occupation niya present ay ang pagiging member of barangay justice system or lupon ng tagapamayapa hanggang ngayon…. at sa national identity documents hindi namin ni Yes kasi yung i.d cards niya ay walang expiration date… hindi naman pwedi ulit ilagay ang passport kasi na ilagay na siya.. .. hindi bayun makaapekto sa application … or desicion making nakatanggap na kmi ng correspondence letter ng biometric noong tuesday but until now wala kaming narerecieve na enotification or new mesage from online accout . Paper application po yun nilink lang namin sa online account
Thank you so much
good afternoon . i would like to know how much to i pay for (PH or USD for a temporary visitor. i am planning for a 1 and half stay with my nieces in Toronto Canada. thank you
Hi,
I was denied with Canadian Tourist Visa last year, would that lessen my chance to get approved when i apply again next year?
Hello po.. me and my boyfrend from canada plan to get me a tourist visa what do i need to do po?
I have been planning to apply for Canadian Tourist Visa for almost 5 years now…but due to the complicated instructions on their website, hindi ko tinutuloy as I’m afraid to get denied. When I saw this blog, I immediately submitted my application and just yesterday, I got a message requesting for me to submit my passport. OMG. Eto na ba yun? This blog is just soooooooo helpful. Thank you so much!!!
Please update us. Sana nakatulong ng sobra ang blog namin.
hello po I am trying to download the forms but I kept on getting the please wait notification’
Would appreciate a help .
Please read item #4 sa FAQs sa post sa taas po. Na-explain naman po namin in detail.
I just received my passport from CVAC…and yes, it has the Canada Visa on it na. Sobrang nakatulong po. I actually have this saved on my bookmarks. Palagi ko binabalik balikan during the time na nagaapply pa lang ako.
Thank you again!!!
Hi Justine,
ano po travel history nyo bago kayo nagrant ng visa? thank you! :)
HI justine, just want to ask kung may relatives ka doon sa canada or wala?
Im planning to apply kasi maybe june or july and I have a sister their but ufortunately she cant help me about it.
Congrats, Justine! :)
Thank you! My friend is applying for Australian visa so I referred your blog to him. :)
Hi po! kapag freelance civil engineer po work, ano po document needed?
Hi! Are you registered with BIR as a professional? You can submit your ITR and registration docs.
hindi po ako registered kasi former OFW po ako from 2006 to 2015.. i have my previous n po kaya lang expired na ngayon…
Hi! Thank you for this post. I would like to ask if the request letter require you to submit your passport within a certain period after receipt of decision? I’m planning to apply both UK and Canada Visa next month and I’m considering overlapping applications because of time constraint. I’m thinking about the possibility of receiving a decision from the Canadian embassy while my passport is with UK embassy. Can I still submit my passport let’s say a week after I received the decision? Thank you very much.
Hi Khaye, you have 30 days to submit your passport after you’re asked to do so. :)
ano po mas require na submit bank cert or bank statement?
If you’re in a good financial standing, I would say bank statement. But if you decide to submit bank cert, make sure it covers the past 4 months or longer.
How long did it take until you got your visa?
16 days :)
i cant find the personal info form. where can i download that?
If you’re submitting the passport in person at the VFS office, the guard will give you a copy upon entering the room.
Do they have some sort of family application, just like in US visa? Where all of you can submit as one? Thank you.
Hi. Thanks so much for your blog. I will be preparing to apply soon for.me and my 2 children. Were you required to do biometrics? Will I need to bring my children with me, if and when I receive a message to submit oir passports?
Hi,
Can i save the scanned photo in pdf format or strictly in jpeg/tiff?
Thanks.
Hello ask ko lang po pano kung wala po akong work . Then sabi nila i need a job para maaprove yung tourist visa. Ano pong pwedeng alternative way dun. Salamat
Mahirap po talaga maapprove pag unemployed. Di po namin alam ano alternative.
Hi Sir,
Please i need your assistance. Pag aapply na po sana ako this MOnth (Septemeber2018) ng application kaya lang po suddenly nilipat ako ng company. Pwede ko po ba ilagay both company and iexplain ko nalang sa cover letter ko yung reason? Im currently working here in SIngapore.
Hi Rish, sorry, medyo di ko gets, saan mo ilalagay yung both companies? Sa application form?
Sa application form po yung current company ko na ilalagay ko. Yung mga documents po? Like contract? IC, wala pa po kasi ako payslip na matatanggap pa sa pinaglipatan na company ko ngayon kaya yung previous company po which is from mar to august ang binigay nila na payslip copy sakin. and yung for september ibang company na ang magbibigay kaya lang po kasi ngayong month na ako mag submit ng visa application ko. Biglaan po kasi sila nag decide na ilipat ako ng supplier company parang agency po dito sa SG. Man power supplier.
Hi Rish, naku, magulo nga yan. Naging complicated lalo. Pero pwede mo itry na iexplain sa letter na lang na you have just moved
I think sa COE or contract, dapat yung current company lang.
Pero dahil hindi ideal yung situation, may chance talaga na madeny.
Thank you the poor traveler. Going to Toronto this April. You are a big help for my visa application and approval.
No prob, Grace! Enjoy Toronto! :) And visit Niagar-on-the-Lake too!
Yes, I would be going to Niagara Falls and Hamilton also. My first application was denied, but I reapplied after 5 days bcoz based on what I’ve read on other blogs, mas mabuti daw mag reapply kaagad and explain mo lang sa cover letter mo to refute their visa denial. Kaya ayun, inaprove nila, multiple entry pa. hehe
Hi Ms. Grace,
ano pong travel history nyo bago kayo ma approve ng visa? thank you :)
Hi Ma’am,
Pwede niyo po ba kami mahelp sa cover letter niyo or pwede po ba makahinging assistnace sa pag apply? PLease? Pwede po makuha ang email address niyo? Thank you so much po for your help!God bless you po!
hello po,, pwede mo po b mashare yung cover letter mo sa 2nd application mo po?? thank u :)
Yay! Enjoy Canada! ❤️
Hi! Just want to ask about the 5257 form 2nd page #8 Immigration status of applicant in country where applying. Do I have to choose Temporary Resident? How about the validity? or do I have to choose the fifth box? Thanx
Hello Yoshke, I’ve been following your blog for a long time now and been reading your articles especially on VISA application. In fact, I followed your Indian Visa application and was granted with eVISA just yesterday : ) my 12th Asian Country to visit to date. Applying for Canadian Visa is taking it to the next level of travel and this article will definitely helps a lot! Question though, since I don’t have a plane ticket reservation (DIY trip) would you recommend I produce an invitation letter instead? I plan to visit my Aunt in Vancouver and I can request her to produce this letter. Also, do you have an idea if I have to notarized it? I plan to cover Vancouver- Edmonton (Banff) – Toronto. Thanks a lot! and really helpful blog.
Hi Jeffrey, if the purpose of your trip is to visit your aunt, then yes, a letter from her will be very helpful. Not sure if this has to be notarized though. But just make sure your aunt’s full name and contact details are there.
Hello Yoshke and Vins, as of writing this reply, I am now granted with multiple entry visa to Canada and coming to visit this October 2018, Yey!!! childhood dream fulfilled! what I initially thought is taxing, stressful and scary process eh madali lang pala! simply follow your instructions (no help needed fromtravel agency – which was my original plan). Heartfelt thank you : ) and please continue writing it really helps a lot! : )
Thanks, Jeffry! Saan sa Canada ka punta? Enjooooy! :)
This reminds us that we need to write na rin pala our Canada travel guides. :)
Actually, aside from Visa Application I was wondering if you have Canada guide(s) as well? I plan to visit Toronto – Edmonton (Banff) – Vancouver, will visit friends and family but definitely solo trip for me : ) at saka depende sa airfare sale hahaha (expensive ticket) any DIY tips are highly appreciated.
Hi Jeffrey, we’ve been planning to but could not find time to write our Canada guides. haha.
Hi, TPT/. I am going to need Canadian visas for myself, my wife and 2 kids. We are going to an Alaskan cruise, and it covers a stop in British Columbia. We are well traveled, having been to the US multiple times, Europe multiple times, and all over southeast asia, both individually and as a family. . So I think we will probably be granted visas. My problem is that my children are already in the US ahead of us. One is studying in New York, and the other is vacationing in California. Would it be possible to apply together, or do we do it individually.
Thank you.
Hi Donn, as far as I know Canada doesn’t allow group applications online. It has to be done individually. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=425&top=16
Hi. I had an early retirement from work and I have been leasing out my condo unit for a couple of years now, mostly to expats, as a source of income. I’m almost 50 and I want to start traveling. I’ve been to most of Asia and Australia. I want to visit Canada next as I have a friend there. My concern is, I don’t have a tax return for the rental as it is only 1 unit. I do have my property tax, dues, title for it though. I also have the lease contracts and tenant info. Would it be a problem if I don’t have the tax return? I don’t see it as a business but more of a passive source of income. Thanks in advance for your insight.
Hi Pat, the ITR isn’t required. It would be helpful, but not required. You can submit other proof of income like those you mentioned (lease contracts, etc.).
Thank you very much!
Hi,
May I know how you were able to open the Form IMM5257? It always goes directly to the Please Wait page.. Please help! :) Thanks!
Use Adobe Acrobat Reader DC or Adobe Acrobat 8 Professional
Thanks for your reply! I’m actually already filling up the form at the moment. There’s this portion where you write the Name, address and relationship of any person(s) or institutions you want to visit. Did you just write your hotel name here? Or just N/A since I’m not visiting anyone there? :)
Thank you so much for your help! :)
Hi! I answered this a couple times already. (See other comments.) Just write down your hotel name.
Hi! I am currently working in Qatar and been thinking of applying a Canada tourist visa in the Philippines. As you know, the country im working in doesn’t collect any taxes from its workers. I just don’t know how to process my ITR as past of their requirements. Can you help with this please? Cheers!
ITR is optional. Their website says ANY or all, so if you don’t have ITR, you can skip that. But it would really help if you can provide other proof of employment and financial means.
Also, should i scan my passport size photo or just send them the soft copy? I got lost with your “digital/scanned” part. Haha
Re photo, upload the soft copy.
Thanks for responding to this. Do you also know if i can send a screenshot of my bank statement from BDO online banking or do i really have to get it from the bank? Thanks!
Best to get it from the bank.
Thanks for this article! Got my visa (multiple entry rin :)) last Sunday. Kung hindi ko siguro nakita tong blog niyo nahirapan ako magcomplete ng requirements, pati yung sa signature ng forms :)))
Hi Jade! Thanks for returning to our blog to share this! We’re always happy to be of help. Congrats on your visa!!! Enjoy Canada. :)
Hi i am inviting my parents and sister for a tourist visa here in Canada and i am planning to apply it online, do i need to submit also my requirements with them like my T4, notice of assessment etc. or they only ask for their requirements? Thank you!
Hi. I have a sister in Canada and my parents who are both senior citizens and I am planning to visit her and her Canadian Family. I am single, government employee and a post graduate student. But in assets, I dont think I will be able to satisfy that. Can business be inclded as assets? Thanks
Yes, pwede. Basta nakapangalan sayo.
Hello Sir, tanong ko lang po kung hand written po ba dapat sa forms nai-fillup? or i need a PDF editor po?
PDF editor. :)
Hi again Sir,
Dun po sa Signature, kapag tinatype ko na yung name ko ayaw po mag respond. Parang hindi ko po pwede lagyan ng name pero sa date okay naman po.
Hi Rish, please read Frequently Asked Question #5 above.
Thank you so much Sir sa mga promp replies niyo! =) God bless!
Hello po, panu po pag ung bank stmt ko is png allowance nalang? Naka booked na po kasi ko return tix (manila-windsor ca) and accommodation (airbnb)… malaki po ba chance na ma qpproved ako, since nameet ko naman po ung requirements except sa bank stmt which is allowance nalang pero naka set naman sya 100usd/day may17-28, 2018 ung flight date
Student/self employed din po ako, day trading crypto currency pero walang itr, pero may proof naman po ako na babalik ng ph kasi student pa, may school cert naman then booked ticket din po ako mnla-bali, may impact po kaya un para ma approve ako? Thank you po
Hi, how about if will just go there for studying, a sandwhich program for only a year…student visa ba? what’s the requirements po.. . Thank you..
Do I need to submit summary report of my travel history? Or I just need to scan all the stamps and visas?
If you can submit a summary report, that would make their jobs easier. I submitted a summary report too. Naka-table. :P
Hi Sir,
Sorry po sa napaka daming tanong, sa travel history po ano ano po mga pwede ko ilagay dun? Pwede niyo po ba iemail sakin yung lahat ng documents na sinubmit niyo Sir? Para may guide lang po ako. PLease? =( nag tanong na po kasi ako sa Gazelle which is recommended niyo for flight blocking. Nag avail ako sakanila. Pero ang sabi po sakin sa visa assistance hindi nila ko ma accomodate dahil working po ako dito sa SG. Diff countries diff req’s daw po kasi. PLease Sir =(
Sa Travel History, I submitted:
– copy of info page of previous passports used within the last 10 years
– copy of all expired and valid visas
– copy of all entrance and exit stamps
Hi question lang po, I have my salary certificate dated March 18, 2018 from my employer and til now hindi pa ako nakakapagsubmit ng application ko online. Will it affect my application or should I request my employer for a new one but it would take 2 weeks. Thank you.
I think pwede pa, pero syempre, mas better chances pag mas bago.
Hi! Ask ko Lang Kung renewal need pa bang mag present Ng requirements, since I already used my visa twice, multiple 3 yrs , and if will expire on aug 2018. Am planning to pay a visit to my brother who died in 2015 in Canada , nagiisa lang siya doon , since divorce siya at ang nagasikaso lang yung “ common wife” base sa death certificate. Do you think I have a chance to have visa , if COE is the only documents to be presented? . Currently have US visa & Japan visa . Thank you.
Hi Connie, I’m not sure sa process kapag renewal or if same process lang din. :(
Do we need to submit 4 months of Bank Statement? or Bank Certificate is enough? Is it okay to submit 3 months Bank Statement only? The bank told me that it will take 2-3 weeks to get the bank statement 4 months ago.
Hi Lea, as explained in the article, you can submit “any or all” of the listed requirements. The more supporting docs you submit though, the better your chances.
Hello Yoshke!
I am planning to leave for Canada on June 13-18 for a business trip. However, I have another trip on US on May 15- June 1 2018. Travel agencies can no longer commit that they can have my passport back in time for the schedule. It seems like Online application is the best options left for me.
Id like to ask, after you were approved and were required to surrender the passport for stamping, what is the maximum grace period/timeline set by the embassy to surrender my passport? Planning to upload all documents while in the US, and God-willing once approved, Ill surrender my passport for stamping by the time I get back on June 1.
thanks!
30 days.
Hi Yoshke,
Thank you sa vlog mo sobrang nakakatulong. Naguluhan lang ako pag mag papasa sa vfs ng mga docs meaning yung mga application form walang hand signature? Sorry naguluhan ako. Saka same ba yung family information na imm5645 and imm5707??? Sa site kasi ng cic.gc.ca ang nakita ko na form imm5707 ito naba ang bago? Naguluhan talaga ako. Thank you
Pag mag papasa sa vfs ng mga docs meaning yung mga application form walang hand signature?
—– yung application form, di isusubmit sa VFS. It will be accomplished and submitted online (if online application, which is yung topic ng post na ‘to). If online application, as mentioned in the post, you will be asked for an electronic signature upon submission of your application. (Although it’s called an electronic signature, you won’t be signing anything. You will just be prompted to enter your name.)
Saka same ba yung family information na imm5645 and imm5707???
—- I didn’t submit imm5707. Yung 5645 lang.
Hi there, Thank you for this helpful guide. I am working for the application of my sisters and brother and their child. They have new passports with no travel history yet as they have not left the country. Do you have an idea what I can do for this. Thank you
In this case, just upload a copy of their passports.
Hi Sir,
I hope makapag reply po kayo sa mga questions ko.
I have a sister living in Canada na po and plan to visit her this year. Im single currently working here in Singapore as an admin executive (engineering Company). If papalarin po na ma grant ako ng tourist visa okay lang po kaya na magtravel ako lets say nag end na yung contract ko dito sa work? HIndi po kaya ako mahaharang nun?Thank you po.
Hi Rish, in theory, okay lang. But it’s hard to say how the immigration screening will go through, if mahaharang ka or hindi. Depende yan sa maraming factors.
Thank you so much for posting this article. I applied for a tourist visa together with my mom, dad, and husband. We got approved! I tried several times applying for a tourist visa when i was single and i was denied twice. But when i read this article, i was encouraged to try again and luckily i got it this time. Your website have been really helpful. The way you describe the procedures and steps to follow were clearly explained.Also, instead of availing the services of tourist agency in filing our visa it was timely that i have read your article and guess what i have saved almost 40k since the agency is charging 15k per applicant. I filed our applications myself and I just followed the steps that you have enumerated. Hence, from the bottom of my heart, thank you and more power to you and your team! :)
Hi Kat/Yoshke Dimen,
Please advise i am planning to apply TR multiple visa with help of this article for me and my Wife.
Can i upload both Visa applications/family information forms online together in 1 file using my GC key?
can i upload both passports detail together?
Hi Rizwan, unfortunately I haven’t tried applying for a Canadian Visa as part of a group so I don’t have answers to your questions. :(
Yes….Agree. Thank you Yoshke Dimen so much for your blog site. very informative and helpful
—————-
Hi Kat,
Question…just curious when you got denied, did you receive the same email as “Decision has been made etc…..” and requested for your passport? How did they inform you of your Visa Denial?
Thank you.
Hi Kat! Thanks din for sharing your experience! And congrats! Enjoy Canada! :)
Bat ng eeror ako sa pagupload nung unang form plang -gusto ko online na kasi pra mas mabilis
This blog post is very helpful. Thank you :)
I would just like to ask if the Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (IMM 5409) should be filled out even though I’m not married or anything?
Thaaank you
Ah, kami po, we didn’t fill it out. We only submitted IMM5257 and IMM5654E.
Hi! Thank you so much for this. Their website’s really confusing. I’m applying my grandparents (grandma and her sister) a tourist visa. And already have their requirements. Their leaving for US in June and planning to take a tour in Canasa as well. Do I need to create a 2 seperate accounts for them? Or can i just upload it altogether in one account? I’m using my email for them both.
Hi Elle, as far as I know Canada doesn’t allow group applications online. It has to be done individually. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=425&top=16
Hi! It was mentioned above that if i want to submit my requirements in person i will need to get a passport request letter that is from CIC? Please, how can i get a copy? Thank you in advance for the help. :)
No, the “passport request letter” is for those who finished submitting the requirements online. It’s sent by CIC via email and via your CIC account’s mail.
If you’re planning on doing the entire application in person, I don’t know what the process is. Contact VFS na lang.
Hi! For the Visitor Visa Application Form, should it be validated first (for the bar code) before uploading? Thank you.
Hi,
Does this type of visa allow you to work in Canada? Do you know if you need to obtain employment before applying for a VISA or after?
Kind Regards
Taylor
Hi Taylor, we have no idea about anything about working in Canada. We focus on tourism only.
Hi! should the visa application form be validated first (for the bar code) before uploading? Thank you.
Hi! Thank you so much for posting this as things seem to be confusing on their website. I will be visiting Canada as I was invited to attend a training as part of my work here in the Philippines. The company sending the invite will be paying for everything, and they have sent a letter stating this with the note where we will be billeted and the length of the training. Part of the costs will also be shouldered by my company. If my company can give financial documents, should I ask for the Canadian company to send the same or should their letter of invitation stating their support of transfers and lodging suffice? Should I also submit my own bank statements or hindi na necessary yun? I will attach my CoE and ITR of course. Thanks!
Hi Jojee, it’s best if you can send as many relevant supporting docs as you can. The letter from the Canadian company will help a lot.
Not sure about the personal financial docs. If it has sufficient funds, I would submit that too, if that were me.
Thanks much! Will keep that in mind! Thank you!
Hi! I would like to ask in what part should i need to upload the ticket and hotel confirmation?
For the employment status i am currently employed but the form is asking for TO-FROM how will i answer it? putting N/A is not applicable.
thank you
You can include the ticket and hotel reservation in the Purpose of Travel file.
I’m not sure I understand your 2nd question. I think it’s asking for the inclusive dates of your employment, is it not?
Thank you for this detailed guide. God Bless!
No prob!
hi! Is the process same as the visa renewal?
Thanks so Much!
God bless!!!
Hi Ghia, I dunno. :( I’m not familiar with the renewal process. :(
Hi! I applied online but I got denied, the reasons are my travel history ( isang beses pa lang ako nakalabas ng bansa) and the purpose of visit (family visit nilagay ko since nasa canada naman brothers at parents ko)..ano kaya pwde ko pang iattach or gawin para maapporve ako? thank you so much…
I am employed for 10 years and single..
hi at what part ba dapat mag upload ng birthcertificate or marriage contract. is it needed? di ko makita eh.
If I remember correctly, di kailangan.
Hi.. Im travelling with my 79 year old mom. Can I use the same GCKey account and upload all her requirements along with mine? Thanks :)
As far as I know Canada doesn’t allow group applications online. It has to be done individually. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=425&top=16
I have created 1 GCKey account and have filed applications for myself and other 2 family members.
You should be able to do this by properly answering the questions at the start of your application. There’s a question if you are also applying for a family member – if you answered yes, then your checklist would reflect requirements for your family member too.
Hope this helps.
Hi Camille, My husband and I along with our 4 adult children plan to apply for Canadian Visas. Where will I attach the requirements for myself and for our children(Bank Certs, ITRs, old passports for the travel history, etc) since only requirements for the principal applicant are provided with the 4MG file requirement? For the family members only current passport and IMM5257 and 5645 were asked to be uploaded. Hope you can help. Thanks!
Hello Ms. Eileen,
I have the same question po. I’m wondering if you were already able to apply gor Visas through 1 main applicant? As there isn’t an option to upload the other requirements of the family members other than then2 forms, digital photo and passport, did you still have to upload them (ITR, COE, Travel history, etc) po? Hoping for your response. Thank you.
Hi Ms. Eileen
Did you manage to solve your problem? My family and I are planning to apply for a tourist visa. I will be the primary applicant. Where should I attach the travel history and stamp/visa from another country of my family members?