How Indians Can Apply for Canada Tourist Visa 2026: Eligibility, Documents & Step-by-Step Process

Are you thinking of taking a short getaway to Canada in 2026? No matter if it is a family visit, a sightseeing tour, attending a business meeting, or just spending some time relaxing, the Canadian tourist visa will be the first thing to get through the door.

Over the years, Canada has become quite strict when it comes to visa policies, which is why Indian applicants more than ever need to have a clear picture of Canada's tourist visa requirements, the time taken for processing, and the amount of the fee charged before they can apply for one.

We are here to assist Indians in the application process for a Canadian tourist visa in 2026 by telling who is eligible, what documents are required and a complete step-by-step process.

What Is a Canadian Tourist Visa?

A Canadian tourist visa is informally referred to as a Canadian visitor visa, which is a temporary resident visa permitting foreign nationals to come to Canada for a limited time.

Typically, for Indians, the visa is granted as follows:

1. Single-entry visa option, or
2. Multiple-entry visa option (in the majority)

A multiple-entry Canada tourist visa for Indians is normally valid for a maximum of 10 years or till the date of your passport's expiry, whichever happens first. Nonetheless, usually, the duration of each visit is restricted to 6 months, unless otherwise instructed by the immigration officer.

Why Indians Apply for a Canadian Tourist Visa

Indians apply for a Canadian tourist visa for many reasons, such as:

1. Visiting family members or relatives
2. Tourism and sightseeing
3. Attending weddings or family events
4. Short business meetings or conferences
5. Exploring Canada before future study or PR plans

Canada remains one of the most preferred destinations for Indian travellers because of its safety, multicultural society, and strong Indian community.

Who Can Apply for a Canada Tourist Visa in 2026?

Any Indian citizen can apply for a Canada tourist visa for Indians if they meet the eligibility rules set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Basic Eligibility Conditions

To be eligible, you must:

1. Hold a valid Indian passport
2. Be in good health
3. Have no criminal or immigration violations
4. Show strong ties to India (job, family, business, property, or finances)
5. Convince the visa officer that you will leave Canada after your visit
6. Have enough funds to support your stay
7. Provide genuine and complete documents

Some applicants may also be asked for:

1. A medical examination
2. A letter of invitation from someone in Canada

Who Is Not Allowed to Enter Canada?

Some people may be found inadmissible and may not be allowed to enter Canada.

You may be refused a Canada tourist visa if you have:

1. Criminal history
2. Immigration fraud or misrepresentation
3. Links to organised crime
4. Serious health conditions
5. Security-related concerns
6. Insufficient funds

Each case is reviewed individually by IRCC.

Canada Tourist Visa Requirements for Indians (2026)

Meeting the Canada tourist visa requirements is the most important part of your application. Even a small mistake or missing document can lead to refusal.

Mandatory Documents Checklist

Below is a detailed list of documents required for a Canada tourist visa for Indians:

1. Valid passport (with at least 6 months' validity)
2. Recent passport-size photographs
3. Completed the visitor visa application form
4. Purpose of travel letter
5. Proof of funds (bank statements, ITRs)
6. Employment proof (salary slips, leave letter)
7. Business documents (if self-employed)
8. Travel history (if any)
9. Invitation letter (if visiting someone in Canada)
10. Proof of ties to India (property, family, job)
11. Biometrics (fingerprints & photo)

Canada Tourist Visa Requirements – Document Table

How Much Money Is Required for a Canada Tourist Visa?

There is no fixed amount, but you must show sufficient funds to cover:

1. Air tickets
2. Accommodation
3. Food and daily expenses
4. Local travel
5. Return to India

The amount depends on:

1. Duration of stay
2. Whether you stay in a hotel or with relatives
3. Your travel plan

Showing strong and consistent bank balances increases approval chances.

Canada Tourist Visa Fees for Indians (2026)

Understanding Canada tourist visa fees helps you plan better.

Official Visa Fees

1. Visitor visa fee: CAD 100
2. Biometrics fee: CAD 85
3. Total: CAD 185

Fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is refused.

Additional costs may include:

1. Medical exam (if required)
2. Document translation
3. Consultancy charges (if you take professional help)

Canada Tourist Visa Processing Time for Indians

The Canada tourist visa processing time for Indian applicants varies depending on workload, season, and application accuracy.

Average Processing Time (2026)

1. 15 to 45 days (most cases)
2. Can be longer during peak seasons
3. Delays are possible if extra documents are requested

Applying with complete and correct documents helps reduce delays.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Canada Tourist Visa (2026)

Here is a simple, step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Canada tourist visa for Indians:

1. Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm that you meet all Canada tourist visa requirements.

2. Step 2: Gather Documents

Collect all required documents and ensure they are clear and genuine.

3. Step 3: Create an IRCC Account

Create an online account on the official IRCC portal.

4. Step 4: Fill Application Form

Complete the visitor visa application form carefully.

5. Step 5: Pay Canada Tourist Visa Fees

Pay the visa and biometrics fees online.

6. Step 6: Submit Biometrics

Visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) for fingerprints and a photo.

7. Step 7: Medical Exam (If Asked)

Attend a medical exam if IRCC requests it.

8. Step 8: Wait for Decision

Track your application online and wait for the result.

Can Indians Apply Online for Canada Tourist Visa?

Yes. Most Indian applicants apply online, which is faster and more convenient. Paper applications are limited and usually discouraged.

Minor Children Travelling to Canada – Special Rules

Special rules apply if children under 18 are travelling.

If Child Travels With Parents

1. Passport
2. Birth certificate
3. Parent consent (if required)

If Child Travels With One Parent or Another Adult

1. Consent letter from non-travelling parent(s)
2. Copies of parents’ passports

If Child Travels Alone

1. Written consent from parents
2. Guardian details in Canada

Requirements may vary depending on the situation.

Common Reasons for Canada Tourist Visa Refusal

Understanding refusal reasons helps you avoid mistakes.

Common reasons include:

1. Weak financial proof
2. Poor travel history
3. Weak ties to India
4. Unclear purpose of travel
5. Incomplete or fake documents
6. Inconsistent information

A strong application with a proper explanation reduces refusal.

Tips to Increase Approval Chances in 2026

Here are simple tips to improve your chances:

1. Submit honest and complete documents
2. Clearly explain your travel purpose
3. Show strong ties to India
4. Avoid fake or altered documents
5. Maintain a good bank balance history
6. Apply well in advance
7. Get professional guidance if unsure

Canada Tourist Visa vs Other Canadian Visas

A Canada tourist visa does not allow work or long-term study.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Canada tourist visa for Indians in 2026 is straightforward if you understand the Canada tourist visa requirements, prepare documents properly, and follow the correct steps. With accurate information, honest documents, and good planning, your chances of approval are strong.

How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help You

Applying for a Canada tourist visa can feel confusing—but Visa Solutions 4u makes it simple and stress-free.

We help you with:

1. Eligibility assessment
2. Document checklist and verification
3. Application form filling
4. Purpose of travel and cover letter drafting
5. Biometrics and medical guidance
6. End-to-end visa support

With experienced consultants and a transparent process, Visa Solutions 4u ensures your Canada tourist visa application is accurate, complete, and professionally handled.

Planning your Canada trip in 2026? Visa Solutions 4u is here to guide you every step of the way.