Canada Tourist Visa
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) · For Mexico citizens
Planning a trip to Canada as a Mexican citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) application: required documents, current fees of CAD $185 (including biometrics), processing times, and strategies to improve your chances. Mexican citizens with a valid US visa may be eligible for the simpler eTA instead.
Canada Tourist Visa for Mexican Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Mexico citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay in Canada
Complete the visitor visa application through IRCC's online portal
Recent photograph meeting Canadian visa specifications
Evidence that you can financially support yourself during your stay
Documentation proving your employment status and ties to Mexico
Details of your intended trip to Canada
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Mexico
Fingerprints and photograph at a Visa Application Centre
Recommended (Optional)
Letter from your host in Canada
Application Process
Canadian visitor visa applications are submitted online through IRCC’s portal.1 The process includes several steps:
1. Check if You Need a Visa or eTA
Mexican citizens with a valid US non-immigrant visa or a Canadian visa issued in the past 10 years may be eligible for an eTA instead.5 The eTA costs only $7 CAD and is processed in minutes. Otherwise, you need a visitor visa (TRV).
2. Complete Online Application
Create an account on the IRCC website and complete the visitor visa application.1 Upload all required documents digitally and pay the CAD $100 application fee.
3. Provide Biometrics
After submitting your application, you will receive a biometrics instruction letter.3 Within 30 days, visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Monterrey to provide your fingerprints and photo. The biometrics fee is CAD $85.
4. Wait for Processing
Processing typically takes 4-8 weeks.4 IRCC may request additional documents or an interview. You can check your application status online.
5. Receive Decision
If approved, your passport with the visa will be returned via the VAC. The visa will show your validity dates and number of permitted entries.
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | CAD $100 per person |
| Biometrics | CAD $85 per person |
| Family Application (5+) | CAD $500 maximum |
| Family Biometrics (2+) | CAD $170 maximum |
| Total (individual) | CAD $185 |
For those eligible for eTA instead: CAD $7 total.5
What You Need to Prove
IRCC officers assess whether you are a genuine visitor who will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.1 You must demonstrate:
- Temporary intent: Clear plans to return to Mexico
- Financial ability: Funds to support your stay without working
- Ties to home: Employment, property, family, or other reasons to return
- Clear purpose: Legitimate and specific reason for visiting Canada
Processing Times
Current processing times for visitor visas from Mexico:4
| Application Type | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (online) | 4-8 weeks |
| eTA (if eligible) | Minutes to 72 hours |
Processing times are estimates and can vary based on volume and complexity.4 Apply well in advance of your travel date.
eTA Option for Some Mexicans
Since February 2024, Mexican citizens traveling by air may apply for an eTA if they:5
- Hold a valid US non-immigrant visa (B1/B2, F1, H1B, L1, etc.), OR
- Held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years
The eTA costs only CAD $7, is applied for online, and is usually processed in minutes. This is significantly simpler than the full visitor visa process.
After Your Visa is Approved
Your visa allows you to travel to a Canadian port of entry, but admission is not guaranteed. At the border:
- A CBSA officer will verify your documents and ask about your visit
- The officer determines your allowed length of stay (typically 6 months)
- You may be asked to show proof of funds and return travel plans
- Your entry stamp shows your authorized stay period
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the specific concerns
- Request GCMS notes under Access to Information to understand the refusal details
- Seek immigration counsel for complex situations
There is no formal appeal for visitor visa refusals. Each new application is assessed independently, so stronger documentation can lead to approval.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Mexico
The officer was not satisfied that you have strong enough reasons to return to Mexico after your visit.
How to avoid: Document your ties comprehensively: stable employment with tenure, property ownership, family obligations, ongoing business interests. Show multiple compelling reasons to return.
Weak Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show enough funds or demonstrate suspicious patterns. Unable to prove you can support yourself during the visit.
How to avoid: Provide 4-6 months of bank statements showing consistent income and sufficient balance. Explain any large deposits. Include employment letter confirming salary.
Unclear Travel Purpose
Vague or inconsistent explanation of why you want to visit Canada, or travel plans that do not make sense for your profile.
How to avoid: Be specific and honest about your visit purpose. Provide a detailed itinerary. If visiting friends or family, include their invitation letter with immigration status proof.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or unclear/illegible uploads that prevented proper assessment of your application.
How to avoid: Use the document checklist carefully. Ensure all uploads are clear and legible. Provide translations for any documents not in English or French.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in Canada or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about any past issues and explain changed circumstances. Attempting to hide violations usually leads to refusal and potential bans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Mexican citizens need a visa for Canada?
Most Mexican citizens need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit Canada. However, if you have a valid US non-immigrant visa or held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years, you may be eligible for the simpler eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) instead.
Can I apply for an eTA instead of a visa?
Mexican citizens traveling by air may apply for an eTA if they hold a valid US non-immigrant visa (B1/B2, H1B, L1, etc.) or have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years. The eTA costs only $7 CAD and is processed in minutes.
How long can I stay in Canada on a tourist visa?
A visitor visa allows you to stay in Canada for up to 6 months per visit. The border officer determines your actual allowed stay at entry. You cannot live in Canada permanently through visitor status.
How long does Canada visa processing take from Mexico?
Processing times typically range from 4 to 8 weeks, but can vary based on application volume and individual circumstances. Apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
What is the Canada tourist visa fee for Mexicans in 2025?
The visitor visa application fee is CAD $100 per person, plus CAD $85 for biometrics (total CAD $185). Families of 5 or more applying together pay a maximum of CAD $500 for application fees, plus CAD $170 for family biometrics.
What is the approval rate for Canada visas from Mexico?
The approval rate for visitor visas from Mexico is approximately 76%. Strong ties to Mexico, clear travel purpose, and solid financial evidence significantly improve your chances.
Can I work in Canada on a visitor visa?
No, a visitor visa does not permit any form of employment in Canada. This includes remote work for Mexican or Canadian employers. If you need to work, you must apply for a work permit.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a letter explaining the refusal reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the concerns. There is no formal appeal, but you can request your application notes under Access to Information.