Canada Tourist Visa
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) · For Ghana citizens
Planning a trip to Canada as a Ghanaian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Temporary Resident Visa application: required documents, current fees of CAD $100, processing times of 2-4 weeks, and strategies to improve your chances. With proper preparation, you can successfully obtain your Canadian visitor visa.
Canada Tourist Visa for Ghanaian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Ghana citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your planned stay in Canada
Complete the online visitor visa application through IRCC
Recent photographs meeting Canadian visa photo specifications
Bank statements and other financial documents showing ability to fund your trip
Documentation proving your employment status and ties to Ghana
Details of your planned trip to Canada
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Ghana
Fingerprints and photograph at a Visa Application Centre
Recommended (Optional)
If visiting family or friends, a letter from your host in Canada
Application Process
All applications are submitted online through the IRCC portal.1 The process involves five main steps:
1. Create IRCC Account
Register for an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) secure online portal. You will use this to complete and submit your application.
2. Complete Application Forms
Fill out the required forms including:1
- IMM 5257: Application for Visitor Visa
- IMM 5645: Family Information Form
- Upload supporting documents and photos
3. Pay Fees
Pay the CAD $100 application fee online.2 If biometrics are required, pay the additional CAD $85 biometrics fee.
4. Provide Biometrics
After submitting your application, you will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter.3 Book an appointment at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Accra to provide your fingerprints and photo.4
5. Wait for Decision
Processing takes approximately 2-4 weeks.1 You can check your application status online. If approved, you will receive instructions to submit your passport for visa stamping.
Fees
| Service | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | CAD $100 | Per person |
| Biometrics | CAD $85 | If not provided in last 10 years |
| Family Maximum | CAD $500 | For 5+ family members applying together |
Additional fees may apply for VFS Global services such as courier delivery and premium services.4
What You Need to Prove
To obtain a Canadian visitor visa, you must satisfy the visa officer that you:1
- Will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- Have sufficient funds for your stay and return journey
- Have ties to Ghana that will ensure your return
- Are not inadmissible to Canada for security, criminal, or health reasons
- Have a clear purpose for your visit
Processing Times
Current processing times for visitor visa applications from Ghana are 2-4 weeks.1 Times may vary based on:
- Completeness of your application
- Volume of applications being processed
- Whether additional documentation is required
- Verification of information provided
Check the IRCC website for the most current processing times before applying.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport. The visa indicates:
- Validity period (up to 10 years or passport expiry)
- Number of entries (typically multiple)
- Conditions of entry
At the Canadian border:
- Present your passport with visa to the border officer
- Answer questions about your visit honestly
- You may be asked to show proof of funds and return ticket
- The officer determines your authorized length of stay
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the general reasons. You can:
- Request GCMS notes to understand detailed reasons for refusal
- Reapply with stronger documentation addressing the issues
- Wait until your circumstances change significantly
There is no formal appeal process for visitor visa refusals. Focus on strengthening weak areas before reapplying.
Tips for a Successful Application
Financial Documentation
- Show consistent income over 6 months
- Avoid large unexplained deposits
- Include savings, investments, and property
Ties to Ghana
- Employment letter with tenure and leave approval
- Property ownership documents
- Family certificates for dependents
- Business registration and contracts
Travel History
- Include previous Canada, US, UK, or Schengen visas
- Show pattern of complying with visa conditions
- Demonstrate history of returning home after travels
Clear Purpose
- Provide detailed itinerary
- If visiting someone, include comprehensive invitation letter
- Make sure your plans match your financial means
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Ghana after the visit, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing tenure, property documents, evidence of family dependents, and business interests that require your presence in Ghana.
Inadequate Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show sufficient funds or consistent income to support the trip and return to Ghana.
How to avoid: Show 6 months of statements with regular income. Funds should cover all estimated trip costs with a comfortable buffer.
Unclear Purpose of Travel
The stated purpose of visit is vague, or the itinerary does not seem realistic or consistent with the applicant's profile.
How to avoid: Provide a clear, detailed itinerary. If visiting family, include a comprehensive invitation letter with host's immigration status.
Inconsistent or Incomplete Application
Information in the application does not match supporting documents, or required documents are missing.
How to avoid: Double-check all information for consistency. Ensure all required documents are included and properly translated if not in English or French.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals or immigration violations in Canada or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues and explain what has changed in your circumstances. Include evidence of your current stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Canada on a tourist visa?
The visitor visa allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. The exact duration is determined by the border officer when you arrive. You may be given less than 6 months depending on your stated purpose.
Can I work on a Canada tourist visa?
No, the Temporary Resident Visa does not permit any form of paid or unpaid work in Canada. You need a separate work permit to work legally in Canada.
How long does Canada visa processing take from Ghana?
Processing times are currently 2-4 weeks for most applications. However, times can vary based on application volume and complexity. Check the IRCC website for current processing times.
What is the Canada tourist visa fee for Ghanaians in 2025?
The application fee is CAD $100 per person. Additionally, a biometrics fee of CAD $85 is required if you haven't provided biometrics in the last 10 years. Families of 5+ pay a maximum of CAD $500.
How long is a Canada visitor visa valid?
Canada visitor visas are typically issued for up to 10 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. The visa allows multiple entries during its validity period.
Do I need to provide biometrics?
Yes, if you are between 14 and 79 years old and have not provided biometrics for a Canadian visa in the last 10 years, you must provide fingerprints and a photo at a Visa Application Centre.
What is the approval rate for Canada visas from Ghana?
The approval rate for Canada visitor visas from Ghana is approximately 50%. Strong ties to Ghana, clear travel purpose, and sufficient financial evidence are key factors.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a letter explaining the reasons for refusal. You can either reapply with stronger documentation or request your GCMS notes to understand the detailed reasons before reapplying.