How to Get a Canada Visit Visa from Dubai?

Canada, known for its landscapes and cities, is a top destination for travellers. A Canada tourist visa from Dubai is essential for those who reside in Dubai and wish to visit this beautiful country and enjoy its attractions. 

The following article will provide all the essential information on the Canada visit visa, detailing the application process, requirements, and more. 

Do You Need a Canada Visit Visa from Dubai?

UAE passport holders don’t need a visa for short-term visits to Canada as they are eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). This eTA allows entry for tourism, business, or transit purposes. The application process is online, requiring personal and travel details. 

Here are the key features of the eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for Canada —

• Eligibility: Specifically for visa-exempt foreign nationals, including UAE citizens
• Purpose: Ideal for short-term visits like tourism, business, or transit
• Application: Entirely online, making it convenient and quick
• Duration: Valid for up to 5 years or until the passport expires
• Multiple Entries: Allows for multiple entries into Canada during its validity

Note: A Canada visit visa from Dubai is required for stays longer than six months or for purposes other than tourism, business, or transit. 

How to Apply for Canada Visit Visa from Dubai?

To get Canada Visit Visa from Dubai, you can choose between two procedures depending on your requirements and the duration of stay: the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) and the Canada Tourist Visa application.

Procedure to Apply for Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)

Listed below is the procedure to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to visit Canada —

1. Start by visiting the official Government of Canada website.
2. On the website, find and click on the section for 'Immigration and Citizenship'.
3. In the 'Immigration and Citizenship' section, look for and select the option ‘Visit to Canada’.
4. Click on ‘Find Out if You Need a Visa to Travel to Canada’. This will take you to a questionnaire.
5. Answer a few questions related to your residency and the purpose of your visit. This helps to confirm whether you need an eTA or a Canada visitor visa.
6. After completing the questionnaire, if you need an eTA, click on ‘Get details about eTA’ located at the bottom of the page.
7. You will be redirected to a new page. Here, click on ‘Apply for eTA’ at the bottom of the section.
8. The application page will guide you through the process. Carefully read and follow the instructions provided.
9. You will need to fill in the required details such as the document that you will use to travel to Canada and the corresponding details of that document.
10. At the end of the application, you will be required to pay a fee. Make sure to have a credit card ready for this.
11. Submit your application and wait for a confirmation email regarding the status of your eTA.

Remember, while the eTA is linked electronically to your passport, it's a good practice to keep a copy of the confirmation for your records. Similarly, while the process is generally quick, it's advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date.

Procedure to Apply for Canada Tourist Visa

1. Eligibility: If you plan to stay for more than 6 months or for purposes other than tourism, business, or transit, you'll need a Canada Tourist Visa.
2. Required Documents: This includes a valid passport, recent passport-size photographs, bank statements for the last 6 months, a cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit, and (if required) a letter of invitation from someone in Canada. Additional documents like health and character certificates may also be required​​​​.
3. Application Process: You can apply online or on paper. For online applications, you need access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents and a valid credit card for payment.
4. Biometrics Appointment: After submitting your application, you may need to attend a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints and photo will be taken.
5. Interview: Some applicants might be required to attend an interview where questions about travel plans, financial situation, and ties to the home country will be asked.

Keep in mind that the processing time for a Canada visitor visa can vary. Thus, it's advisable to start the application process well in advance of your planned travel dates. A professional visa service provider can assist you in this process, ensuring all requirements are met​

Applying for a Canada Tourist Visa from Dubai

1. Visit the IRCC Website: Go to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
2. Choose the Application Type: Decide whether you want to apply online or on paper. For online applications, you will be required to create an account on the IRCC website.
3. Gather Required Documents: Prepare all necessary documents, such as your passport, recent photographs, financial proof, travel itinerary, and more.
4. Fill in the Application Form: Complete the visitor visa application form available on the IRCC website.
5. Pay the Visa Fee: After filling out the application, pay the required visa fee through the website.
6. Submit Biometrics: If required, you will be asked to give your biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
7. Attend an Interview: In some cases, you may be required to attend an interview at the VAC or the Embassy.
8. Wait for Processing: The visa processing time varies, so check the IRCC website for current processing times.
9. Receive Your Visa: Once your visa is approved, you will receive a notification. If you submitted your passport, you would get it back with the visa stamped.

For both applications, double-check all information for accuracy to avoid any delays or issues in processing. Always refer to the official websites for the most current information and detailed instructions.

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Things to Remember While Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)

When applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to Canada, it's important to keep in mind several key points:

1. Passport: You must have a valid passport from a visa-exempt country like the UAE. The eTA will be electronically linked to this passport.
2. Accuracy of Information: Provide accurate information in your application. Inaccuracies can lead to delays or denial of your eTA.
3. Duration and Validity: An eTA is typically valid for 5 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). It allows for multiple short visits — usually up to six months at a time.
4. Travel Purpose: The eTA is for tourism, business visits, or transit purposes only. If you intend to study or work in Canada, you will need a different type of visa.
5. Fees and Payment: For the eTA application, a small fee has to be paid online during the application process. To get eTA from Dubai, you are required to pay CAN $7 fee (non-refundable).
6. Processing Time: While most eTA applications are processed quickly — sometimes within minutes — it can take longer. Apply well in advance of your travel date.
7. Check Your Email: After applying, monitor your email for the decision. If your eTA is approved, it will be sent to you electronically.
8. Print and Keep a Copy: While the eTA is electronically linked to your passport, it's a good practice to print a copy of the approval for your records.
9. Changes in Circumstances: If your situation changes (like getting a new passport), you may need to apply for a new eTA.

Final Note

If you are going to Canada from Dubai, whether for tourism, business, or transit, you can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a Canada Tourist Visa. The process for obtaining these documents is straightforward but requires attention to detail. For UAE citizens, an eTA is a convenient option for short-term visits, while a Tourist Visa is essential for longer stays or different travel purposes.

eTA applications involve a simple online procedure for a quick and hassle-free way to plan your journey to Canada. On the other side, the Tourist Visa application involves a more comprehensive process. This includes documentation like bank statements and letters of invitation, and possibly attending interviews or biometric appointments.

Remember, accuracy in your application and early submission is crucial to avoid any delays. If you are choosing an eTA for a brief visit or a Tourist Visa for an extended stay, these guidelines will help ensure your application process is smooth and easy.