Canada Tourist Visa
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) · For Guatemala citizens
Planning a trip to Canada as a Guatemalan citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Temporary Resident Visa application: required documents, fees of CAD 185 (including biometrics), processing times, and strategies to improve your approval chances. Proper preparation is essential for success.
Canada Tourist Visa for Guatemalan Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Guatemala citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current Guatemalan passport must be valid for the duration of your planned stay in Canada
Complete the visitor visa application form IMM 5257
Recent photographs meeting IRCC specifications
Documentation showing you have sufficient funds for your trip
Documentation proving your employment status in Guatemala
Details of your planned trip to Canada
Fingerprints and photograph collected at a Visa Application Centre
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Guatemala
Recommended (Optional)
Letter from your host in Canada inviting you to visit
Application Process
Canadian visitor visa applications can be submitted online through the IRCC portal.1 The process involves four main steps:
1. Complete Online Application
Create an account on the IRCC website and complete the IMM 5257 visitor visa application form.2 Upload all required documents including passport, photos, and supporting documentation. Pay the CAD $100 application fee online.
2. Provide Biometrics
After submitting your application, you will receive instructions to provide biometrics.4 Schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). Bring your passport and appointment letter. Pay the CAD $85 biometrics fee.
3. Wait for Processing
IRCC will review your application and may request additional documents.3 Processing typically takes 4-8 weeks. You can check your application status online through your IRCC account.
4. Receive Decision
If approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. You will receive instructions for passport submission if you applied online. If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons.
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | CAD $100 |
| Biometrics (ages 14-79) | CAD $85 |
| Total for Adult Applicant | CAD $185 |
Fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome.5 Pay online when submitting your application.
What You Need to Prove
To qualify for a Canadian visitor visa, you must demonstrate:1
- Genuine visitor status: You will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- Sufficient funds: You have enough money for your trip and return home
- Strong ties to Guatemala: Employment, family, property, or other reasons to return
- No criminal or security concerns: You are admissible to Canada
- Good health: You may need a medical exam in some cases
Processing Times
Current processing times for visitor visas from Guatemala are 4-8 weeks.3 Times vary based on:
- Volume of applications
- Completeness of your application
- Need for additional verification
- Whether you requested faster processing
Check the IRCC website for the most current processing times for your specific situation.3
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visitor visa will be placed in your passport. At the Canadian border, the officer may ask for:
- Return flight tickets or onward travel plans
- Proof of accommodation in Canada
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Details of your travel itinerary
- Invitation letter if visiting family or friends
The officer will stamp your passport with the authorized length of stay, typically up to 6 months.
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused:
- Review the refusal letter carefully to understand the specific reasons
- Gather stronger documentation addressing each concern raised
- Consider professional help from a licensed immigration consultant for complex cases
- Reapply when ready with improved documentation
There is no formal appeal for visitor visa refusals, but you can submit a new application at any time. Focus on addressing the specific issues mentioned in the refusal letter.
Biometrics Information
Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are required for most applicants aged 14-79.4
- Where: Visa Application Centre (VAC)
- Validity: 10 years from collection date
- Documents needed: Passport and biometrics instruction letter
- Processing: Usually completed in one appointment
If you have provided biometrics for a previous Canadian visa application within the last 10 years, you may not need to provide them again.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Guatemala
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Guatemala after the visit, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Provide employment letters, property documents, family certificates, and business registration. Show you have compelling reasons to return home.
Weak Financial Documentation
Bank statements do not show sufficient funds or demonstrate irregular financial patterns.
How to avoid: Show 4-6 months of bank statements with stable balance and regular income. Ensure funds cover all trip expenses including flights, accommodation, and daily costs.
Unclear Travel Purpose
The purpose of visit is vague or does not seem genuine based on the applicant's profile.
How to avoid: Provide a clear travel itinerary. If visiting family, include detailed invitation letter with host's Canadian status documentation.
Incomplete Application
Missing required documents, incomplete forms, or inconsistent information.
How to avoid: Use the document checklist on IRCC website. Double-check all forms are complete and information matches across documents.
Immigration History Concerns
Previous visa refusals, overstays, or immigration violations in Canada or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous refusals. Explain changed circumstances and provide evidence of compliance with immigration rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Canada on a tourist visa?
The Temporary Resident Visa allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. The border officer at your port of entry will determine your exact authorized stay. You cannot live in Canada through repeated visits.
Can I work on a Canadian tourist visa?
No, the visitor visa does not permit any paid or unpaid work in Canada. If you need to work, you must apply for a work permit. Studying for more than 6 months also requires a separate study permit.
How long does Canada visa processing take from Guatemala?
Processing typically takes 4-8 weeks after submitting your complete application and biometrics. Times vary based on application volume and complexity. Check IRCC website for current processing times.
What is the Canada tourist visa fee for Guatemalans in 2025?
The visa application fee is CAD $100. Additionally, applicants aged 14-79 must pay CAD $85 for biometrics collection. Total cost is CAD $185 for most adult applicants.
Do I need to provide biometrics?
Yes, applicants aged 14-79 must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a Visa Application Centre. Biometrics are valid for 10 years, so you may not need to provide them again for future applications.
Can I extend my stay in Canada?
Yes, you can apply to extend your stay before your authorized period expires. Apply online through IRCC at least 30 days before your status expires. Extensions are not guaranteed.
What is the approval rate for Canada visas from Guatemala?
The approval rate varies but is estimated around 70% for visitor visas. Common refusal reasons include insufficient ties to Guatemala and inadequate financial documentation.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the concerns. Consider seeking immigration consultant advice for complex cases.