One of the most common questions travellers ask is, “How long will it take to get my visa?” In 2025, processing times for the Canada Visitor Visa can vary depending on several factors, including where you’re applying from, the time of year, and how complete your application is.
Understanding these timelines is crucial for planning your trip without last-minute surprises. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you need to know about a visitor visa, from how long it takes, to what’s changed in 2025, so you can apply with clarity and confidence.
What is a Canada Visitor Visa?
The Canada Visitor Visa, also known as Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), let individuals from different countries enter Canada for short-term stays. Most of the time, this visa is used for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending any short-term business meetings that are less than 6 months.
However, not everyone needs to apply for a visitor visa to enter Canada. Countries like Australia, the USA, Denmark, and France, can enter Canada without a visa by obtaining an Electric Travel Authorization (eTA).
It is much faster and simpler than applying for a full visa. If you need more information on eTA you can check out Canada’s official immigration website.
How Long Does It Take for a Visitor Visa to be Approved in Canada?
The Canada visitor visa processing time for Indian citizens can usually go from 4-6 weeks (28-35 working days). After submitting the biometrics, the application can usually take 2-4 weeks to process.
However, it can be difficult to predict with total certainty, as it can vary depending on application volume and seasonal demand.
The processing time of your visa can also depend on your application method; online applications and paper-based applications.
Indian applicants in 2025 are strongly encouraged to apply online, as it offers many advantages over the traditional paper-based route. Most of the time online applications are preferred, as these are faster, easier to track, and allow quicker updates and communication from IRCC.
| Method | Average Processing Time | How to Apply |
| Online | 28-25 days | Submit via IRCC online portal |
| Paper-Based | 50-65 days | Visit a VFS Global or Visa Application Centre (VAC) |
Key Factors that Can Affect the Processing Time
If you’re wondering how long it might take for your visitor visa application to be processed, the answer is, it depends.
The processing time can vary based on a few different things, so it’s important to keep these in mind when planning your trip. Some of the most common reasons your application might take longer include:
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Application Volume in the Immigration Office
The number of applications the IRCC receives can play a huge role in how long it takes to process your visa. During peak seasons, like summer, or during holidays, you can see a huge increase in applications which can lead to longer wait times.
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How Complete Your Application Is
If your application is incomplete, has errors, or misses any of the documents, it will be most likely to be delayed. Make sure you thoroughly check your application before submitting it to avoid unnecessary hold-ups.
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Where You’re Applying From
The location of the visa office that processes your application also affects how long it takes. Some visa offices have heavier workloads than others, which can result in longer processing times. The country you’re applying from can make a significant difference, so keep that in mind.
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Your Personal Situation
Immigration officials look at your specific circumstances when reviewing your application. Factors such as your travel history, your financial situation, whether you have strong ties to your home country, and the purpose of your visit can all affect processing times. For example, if your background is straightforward and you have a history of travelling internationally, the process may be quicker.
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Security and Background Checks
In some cases, Canada may need to conduct additional checks on your background or security history. These checks can add extra time to the processing process, so it’s something to keep in mind when estimating your timeline.
Also read: Canada super visa processing time
Tips for Speeding Up Your Visa Application
While there’s no way to guarantee your visitor visa will be processed faster, there are things you can do to ensure your application doesn’t get delayed unnecessarily. Here are some tips to help make the process smoother:
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Submit a Complete and Accurate Application
Missing documents or inaccurate information are some of the most common reasons for delays. Thus, before you submit your application, always double-check everything to make sure all the required documents are included and that the details are filled and accurate.
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Be Clear and Honest
The more transparent and clear you are in your application, the easier it will be for immigration officials to process it. Provide a detailed explanation of your reasons for visiting, how long you plan to stay, and your ties to your home country. Being honest and clear can help avoid confusion.
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Apply Well in Advance
It’s always better to apply earlier than you think you need to. With processing times sometimes varying, it’s wise to start your application process several months before your intended travel date.
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Track Your Application
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive a tracking number that allows you to monitor its progress. Stay on top of your application to catch any issues early on.
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Always Use the Official IRCC Website
Submit your application only through the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada portal (IRCC): www.canada.ca. Avoid third-party sites that may be fraudulent or charge extra fees.
Are There Any New Changes in the Canada Visitor Visa Application Process for 2025?
If you’re planning to visit Canada in 2025, you must be aware of the latest updates about visitor visa applications. Canada has made some changes to its visa policies, and it’s essential to stay informed about these adjustments to avoid any surprises.
These updates could affect how you apply, how long you wait for approval and the type of visa you might receive. Here are the key changes for 2025:
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No More Automatic 10-Year Visas
Canada has moved away from automatically granting 10-year multiple-entry visas. Each application is now assessed individually, considering factors such as the purpose of the visit, financial stability, and ties to your home country.
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Stricter Review Process
Immigration officers have increased authority to deny or cancel temporary resident documents, including visitor visas if they are not convinced that an individual will depart Canada upon the expiration of their authorized stay.
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Higher Documentation Standards
Applicants must provide strong evidence of their intent to return home after their visit. This includes demonstrating financial stability, clear travel plans, and strong ties to India.
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Super Visa Processing Time
For parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, the super visa processing time is approximately 119 days.
Wrapping Up
Do you know that in 2024, Canada rejected over 54% of visitor visa applications? That’s a big number, and these numbers show how important it is for you to apply carefully, follow all the steps, and make sure everything is done right.
Getting a visitor visa to Canada takes some planning, so take your time, and double-check everything.
And if you don’t want your application to be delayed for a long time or even worse get rejected, you can get in touch with Immivoyage Consultants. They are the best in the game, and they can make sure that your application will be processed faster.
