Canada Visitor Visa
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) · For China citizens
Planning a trip to Canada as a Chinese citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Temporary Resident Visa application: required documents, current fees of CAD 185 (including biometrics), processing times of approximately 4 to 8 weeks, and strategies to improve your approval chances. With an approval rate around 49%, thorough preparation is essential.
Canada Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For China citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay in Canada
Complete the online visa application through IRCC's secure portal
Recent passport-sized digital photograph meeting IRCC specifications
Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your trip and support yourself during your stay
Documentation proving your employment status and income
Detailed plan of your activities and accommodation in Canada
Evidence demonstrating your strong reasons to return to China after your visit
Fingerprints and photograph taken at a VFS Global visa application centre in China
Recommended (Optional)
A personal letter explaining your travel purpose, ties to China, and reasons for returning
Letter from your host in Canada inviting you to visit
Evidence of previous international travel, especially to Canada, US, UK, Australia, or Schengen countries
Chinese household registration document
Certified translations of any non-English/French documents
Application Process
All applications must be submitted online through the IRCC portal.1 Paper applications are only accepted in specific circumstances, such as for applicants with disabilities. The process involves four main steps:
1. Complete Online Application
Create an account on the IRCC website and complete the Visitor Visa application forms.1 You will need to fill out form IMM 5257 (Application for Visitor Visa) and the Family Information Form (IMM 5645). Pay the CAD $100 visa fee and CAD $85 biometrics fee online.3
2. Submit Supporting Documents
Upload all required documents through your IRCC account.1 Documents must be clear, legible scans. Include your passport, photographs, financial evidence, employment proof, travel itinerary, and evidence of ties to China.2 All documents in Chinese must be accompanied by certified English or French translations.
3. Provide Biometrics
After submitting your application, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) from IRCC.6 Book an appointment at a VFS Global visa application centre within 30 days.5 VFS Global operates centres in major Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Shenyang, Wuhan, Jinan, Kunming, and Chongqing.5 The VFS service fee is approximately 179 CNY, payable in cash or via mobile payment.
4. Wait for Decision
Current processing time for Chinese applicants is approximately 4 to 8 weeks, though this varies based on application volume and individual circumstances.4 You can check your application status online through your IRCC account. Once a decision is made, you will receive notification to submit your passport for visa stamping if approved.1
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | CAD $100 |
| Biometrics (per person) | CAD $85 |
| Biometrics (family of 2+) | CAD $170 max |
| Family Application (5+ people) | CAD $500 max |
| VFS Global Service Fee | ~179 CNY |
| Extend Stay as Visitor | CAD $100 |
| Restore Status | CAD $246.25 |
VFS Global charges additional optional service fees for premium services such as SMS notifications, courier delivery, and premium lounge access.5
What You Need to Prove
Immigration officers evaluate your application based on several key factors under section 179 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.2 You must demonstrate:
- Intent to leave: Strong evidence you will return to China after your visit2
- Sufficient funds: Financial resources to support yourself without working in Canada2
- Genuine purpose: A clear, legitimate reason for visiting Canada2
- Good health: You may need a medical exam in certain circumstances2
- No inadmissibility: No criminal record, security concerns, or previous immigration violations2
The burden of proof is on you. Officers will refuse applications if they have any doubt about your intentions or ability to comply with visa conditions.2
Processing Times
Current processing time for Visitor Visa applications from China is approximately 4 to 8 weeks.4 Processing times have varied significantly in recent years, ranging from as low as 24 days to over 60 days depending on IRCC workload and security screening requirements.
Processing may take longer if:4
- Additional security screening is required
- Documents need verification
- Information in your application requires clarification
- You need to undergo a medical examination
Canada does not offer an expedited processing service for visitor visas. Plan your application well in advance of your intended travel dates. The processing time does not include the time needed to provide biometrics.
After Your Visa is Approved
If approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. The visa may be single-entry or multiple-entry, valid for up to 10 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
At the Canadian border, a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer will make the final decision on your entry. They may ask to see:
- Return flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
- Details of your travel plans
- Contact information for your host (if visiting someone)
The officer determines how long you can stay, typically up to 6 months. This will be stamped in your passport or recorded electronically.
If Your Visa is Refused
With an approval rate of approximately 49%, refusals are common for Chinese applicants. If refused, you will receive a letter with general reasons. To understand the specific concerns:
- Request GCMS notes through an Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) request to see detailed processing notes and the officer’s reasoning
- Analyze the refusal reasons and identify exactly what documentation was lacking or what concerns were raised
- Address each concern with new or additional evidence before reapplying
- Consider timing: Reapplying immediately without substantial changes will likely result in another refusal
There is no formal appeal process for visitor visa refusals. Your options are to reapply with improved documentation that directly addresses the reasons for refusal. For complex cases, consider consulting with a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer who can review your application and provide guidance.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Home Country
The officer is not satisfied that you will leave Canada at the end of your stay. Under section 179(b) of the Immigration Regulations, you must demonstrate compelling reasons to return to China.
How to avoid: Provide comprehensive proof of ties: property documents, employment letter showing long tenure, evidence of family dependents, ongoing business contracts, or investment portfolios in China.
Inadequate Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the trip, show suspicious patterns, or include large unexplained deposits close to the application date.
How to avoid: Show 6 months of consistent bank statements with regular salary credits. Avoid sudden large deposits. Include fixed deposits and investment accounts. Balance should exceed estimated trip costs by a comfortable margin.
Unclear Purpose of Visit
The travel purpose is vague, implausible, or does not match the visa duration. Officers may doubt genuine tourism intent if the itinerary seems unrealistic or overly brief.
How to avoid: Provide a detailed, realistic day-by-day itinerary. If visiting family, include specific details about your relationship and their immigration status. Explain clearly why Canada and why this particular time.
Incomplete or Inconsistent Documentation
Missing required documents, contradictory information across documents, or unexplained gaps in employment or travel history.
How to avoid: Use the official IRCC document checklist. Cross-verify all dates and figures match across documents. Provide explanation letters for any gaps in employment or unusual circumstances. Ensure all Chinese documents have certified English or French translations.
Poor or No Travel History
First-time international travellers or applicants with limited travel history to developed countries face higher scrutiny as there is no track record of visa compliance.
How to avoid: If possible, build travel history by visiting other countries first, such as Southeast Asian nations or countries with easier visa requirements. Include all evidence of previous travel, even domestic. Emphasize your compliance record if you have previous visas.
Previous Immigration Violations
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in Canada or other countries raises concerns about future compliance with immigration rules.
How to avoid: Be completely honest about past issues in your application. Explain what has changed since then. Provide evidence of changed circumstances and improved ties to China.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Canada on a visitor visa?
A Canada Visitor Visa allows you to stay for up to 6 months per visit. The exact duration may be determined by the border services officer upon entry. You cannot live in Canada through repeated visits or work during your stay.
Can I work on a Canada visitor visa?
No, the Visitor Visa does not permit any form of paid or unpaid work in Canada. This includes remote work for non-Canadian employers while you are in the country. If you need to work, you must apply for a separate work permit.
How long does Canada visa processing take from China?
Current processing times for Chinese applicants range from 4 to 8 weeks, though this can vary based on application volume, completeness of your documents, and whether additional security screening is required. Apply well in advance of your planned travel.
What is the Canada visitor visa fee for Chinese citizens in 2025?
The Visitor Visa application fee is CAD $100 per person. Biometrics cost an additional CAD $85. For families of 5 or more applying together, the maximum fee is CAD $500 for the application plus CAD $170 for biometrics. VFS Global also charges a service fee of approximately 179 CNY.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
No, you do not need to book flights before applying. In fact, it is advisable to make only refundable bookings until your visa is approved, given the processing times and possibility of refusal.
Can I extend my Canada visitor visa?
Yes, you can apply to extend your stay as a visitor from within Canada. You should apply at least 30 days before your current status expires. The extension fee is CAD $100. However, extensions are not guaranteed and depend on your circumstances.
What is the approval rate for Canada visas from China?
The approval rate for Canada visitor visas from China is approximately 49% in 2025, down from 51% in 2024. Canada has implemented stricter screening under its Temporary Resident Integrity Strategy, making thorough preparation essential.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the general reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues. There is no formal appeal process for visitor visa refusals, but you can request your GCMS notes through an Access to Information request to understand the detailed reasons.
Is Canada issuing 10-year multiple entry visas to Chinese citizens?
Yes, Canada still issues multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years to Chinese applicants. However, the visa validity cannot exceed your passport validity. The type and duration of visa issued depends on your individual circumstances and the officer's assessment.
What are GCMS notes and how do I get them?
GCMS (Global Case Management System) notes are the internal processing records for your application. If refused, you can request these through an Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) request to understand exactly why your application was declined. This information helps strengthen any reapplication.
Do I need a medical examination for a Canada visitor visa?
Most visitor visa applicants do not require a medical examination. However, IRCC may request one based on your health history or if you plan to stay longer than 6 months. You will be notified if a medical exam is required.