CANADA TRV Visa Process from UAE

Canada remains a highly sought-after destination for people living in the UAE, whether you’re planning a holiday, a business trip, or hoping to spend time with family and friends. The good news is that the process of applying for a Canada visa from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other city in the UAE is quite straightforward and accessible. In this section, we’ll provide a detailed overview of the Canada visa application process for UAE residents, including eligibility criteria, required documents, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to make your application smooth and successful. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, you’ll find all the essential information you need right here.

1. Determine Your Eligibility

• UAE Citizens: UAE passport holders do not need a TRV (visitor visa) to visit Canada. They are eligible for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) if arriving by air.

  • If arriving by land or sea: No eTA or visa is required.

• UAE Residents (Non-UAE Citizens): Most expats (e.g., Indians, Pakistanis, Filipinos, Egyptians, etc.) do need a TRV to visit Canada.

2. For UAE Citizens: eTA Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Documents

• Valid UAE passport

• Credit/debit card for payment

• Email address

Step 2: Apply Online

• Go to the official Canada eTA website

• Fill out the application form

Step 3: Pay the Fee

• Pay CAD $7 online

Step 4: Receive eTA

• Usually approved within minutes to a few hours

• eTA is electronically linked to your passport

3. For UAE Residents (Non-UAE Citizens): TRV Application Process

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

• Use the IRCC eligibility tool

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)

• UAE residence visa (valid for at least 3 months after your return)

• Recent passport-size photos (as per Canada photo specs)

• Proof of funds (bank statements, pay slips, etc.)

• Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservations)

• Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)

• Employment letter or NOC from employer

• Proof of ties to UAE (job, property, family)

• Previous travel history (old visas, entry/exit stamps)

• Cover letter explaining purpose of visit

• Any additional documents requested by IRCC

Step 3: Create an Online Account

• Go to IRCC Portal

• Create a GCKey or sign in with a partner

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

• Fill out the IMM 5257 form and other required forms online

Step 5: Upload Documents

• Scan and upload all required documents

Step 6: Pay the Fees

• Visitor visa fee: CAD $100 per person

• Biometrics fee: CAD $85 (if required)

Step 7: Submit Application

• Submit your application online

Step 8: Biometrics Appointment

• Wait for the Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL)

• Book an appointment at a VFS Global Canada Visa Application Centre in Abu Dhabi or Dubai

• Bring BIL, passport, and appointment confirmation

Step 9: Wait for Processing

• Processing time: Usually 2-6 weeks (can vary)

• Track your application status online

Step 10: Passport Submission (If Approved)

• If approved, you’ll receive a passport request letter

• Submit your passport to VFS for visa stamping

Step 11: Collect Your Passport

• Collect your passport with the visa sticker from VFS or opt for courier delivery

4. Special Notes

• Family Applications: Each family member (including children) must submit a separate application.

• Multiple Entry: Most TRVs are issued as multiple-entry, valid for up to 10 years or until passport expiry.

• Travel Insurance: Not mandatory for the visa, but highly recommended.

5. Useful Links

• Canada Visa Application – UAE (VFS)

• IRCC Official Website

• Photo Specifications