Canada Tourist Visa

Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor) · For Dominican Republic citizens

65%
approval
Several weeks
Processing
CAD $100
Fee
View Requirements Check Your Chances
Verified Guide
· 3 official sources

Planning a trip to Canada as a Dominican citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the visitor visa application: required documents, the current fee of CAD 100, processing times, and strategies to improve your chances. With proper documentation and strong ties to the Dominican Republic, you can successfully obtain your Canadian visitor visa.

Application Process

You can apply for a Canadian visitor visa online or through a paper application.1 The online process is generally faster and allows you to track your application.

1. Create an IRCC Account

Register for an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.1 This allows you to apply online, upload documents, and track your application status.

2. Complete the Application

Fill out the visitor visa application form completely and accurately.1 Upload all required supporting documents including your passport, photos, financial evidence, and travel purpose documentation.

3. Pay Fees

Pay the CAD $100 application fee online.1 After payment, you will receive instructions for providing biometrics.

4. Provide Biometrics

Visit a designated biometrics collection location to provide your fingerprints and photo.1 The additional biometrics fee is CAD $85. You have 30 days from receiving the instruction letter to complete this step.

5. Submit Additional Documents if Requested

IRCC may request additional documents to support your application.1 Respond promptly to any requests to avoid delays.

6. Wait for Decision

Processing times vary. You will be notified of the decision through your IRCC account or by mail.1 If approved, you will receive instructions for submitting your passport for visa stamping.

Fees

ServiceCost (CAD)
Visitor Visa Application$100
Biometrics Collection$85
Family Rate (Biometrics)$170 (max for family applying together)

All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused or withdrawn.1

What You Need to Prove

The visa officer must be satisfied that you:1

  • Will leave Canada at the end of your visit
  • Have enough money for your stay and return travel
  • Have no intention to work or study without authorization
  • Are not inadmissible to Canada due to criminal, security, or health reasons
  • Have a genuine purpose for visiting Canada

The burden of proof is on you to convince the visa officer that you meet these requirements.

Processing Times

Processing times for Canadian visitor visas from the Dominican Republic vary based on:1

  • Current application volume
  • Completeness of your application
  • Whether additional documents are needed
  • Time of year (holiday periods may cause delays)

To check current processing times, visit the IRCC website.1 Plan to apply at least 2-3 months before your intended travel date.

After Your Visa is Approved

Once your visitor visa is approved:

  1. Your passport will be returned with the visa stamp
  2. Check the visa validity dates and conditions
  3. The visa allows you to travel to Canada but does not guarantee entry
  4. At the border, a Canada Border Services Agency officer will make the final entry decision

When arriving in Canada, be prepared to show:

  • Valid passport with Canadian visa
  • Proof of funds
  • Return or onward travel arrangements
  • Purpose of visit documentation
  • Accommodation details

If Your Visa is Refused

If your visitor visa application is refused:1

  1. Review the refusal letter for specific reasons
  2. Address the concerns by gathering additional evidence
  3. Reapply when you have stronger documentation or changed circumstances
  4. Consider requesting reasons if the refusal letter is not detailed

Common next steps:

  • Obtain stronger proof of ties to the Dominican Republic
  • Provide more comprehensive financial documentation
  • Get a detailed invitation letter if visiting someone
  • Wait for circumstances to change (new job, property purchase, etc.)

There is no formal appeal for visitor visa refusals, but you can reapply at any time with a new application.

Common Rejection Reasons

Based on official refusal data for this corridor

40%

Weak Ties to Home Country

Unable to demonstrate strong economic, family, or social ties that would ensure return to the Dominican Republic.

How to avoid: Provide comprehensive evidence of property, family, employment, and other commitments in Dominican Republic. Show you have more reasons to return than to stay.

30%

Insufficient Financial Evidence

Bank statements do not show enough funds or demonstrate concerning patterns like recent large deposits.

How to avoid: Show 4-6 months of statements with consistent income. Budget approximately CAD $100-150 per day of your planned stay.

15%

Unconvincing Travel Purpose

The stated reason for visiting Canada is vague, implausible, or inconsistent with the applicant's profile.

How to avoid: Be clear and specific about why you want to visit. Provide supporting documentation for your stated purpose.

10%

Immigration History Concerns

Previous visa refusals, overstays, or immigration violations in Canada or other countries.

How to avoid: Be honest about any previous issues. Explain changed circumstances and why the situation is different now.

5%

Incomplete Application

Missing documents, incomplete forms, or inconsistent information across the application.

How to avoid: Follow the document checklist carefully. Double-check all information before submitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I stay in Canada on a visitor visa?

Most visitors can stay up to 6 months in Canada. The exact duration is determined by the border services officer when you arrive. You may be granted a shorter stay depending on your circumstances.

What is the Canada visitor visa fee for Dominicans in 2025?

The visitor visa application fee is CAD $100 per person. Biometrics collection costs an additional CAD $85. Fees are non-refundable.

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Processing times vary based on application volume and individual circumstances. It can take several weeks to months. Check the IRCC website for current processing times and apply well in advance.

Can I apply for a Canada visa online?

Yes, online applications are available through the IRCC website. You will need to create an account, complete the application form, upload documents, and pay fees online.

Do I need biometrics for a Canada visitor visa?

Yes, most applicants aged 14-79 must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo). There is an additional fee of CAD $85. Biometrics are valid for 10 years.

Can I work in Canada on a visitor visa?

No, a visitor visa does not permit any form of employment in Canada. If you need to work, you must apply for a work permit.

What if my Canada visa is refused?

You will receive a letter explaining the reasons for refusal. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the concerns, or request reconsideration in certain cases.

Can I extend my stay in Canada?

Yes, you can apply to extend your stay while in Canada. Apply at least 30 days before your current status expires. You may continue to stay in Canada while your extension is being processed.

Sources