Canadian Visa: Types, Prices, Requirements and Needed Documents

Canada is one of the most attractive countries for travel, work, and study. To enter the country, it is necessary to obtain a Canadian visa. There are many types of visas in Canada, each for a specific purpose.

A visa allows a legal stay in the country. The difficulty of obtaining a visa directly depends on the purpose of the trip. A tourist visa is usually comparatively easy to obtain. Besides the main documents, it is sufficient to prove financial self-sufficiency, provide a travel plan, and book accommodation.

The most difficult to obtain is an immigration visa to Canada. It requires a high level of education, qualifications, and significant work experience in in-demand fields. Candidates are also required to have a high level of proficiency in either English or French. The process itself can take a year or even longer.

A visa to Canada is also the first step towards obtaining residency. The main benefit of a Canadian visa is the possibility of applying for citizenship after several years of living in Canada on an immigration visa. In this article, we will examine in detail how to get a visa in Canada and what documents are needed for this.

Who Needs a Canadian Visa

Citizens of certain countries do not require a visa to visit Canada. This includes most European Union countries (including Bulgaria and Romania), Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea, among others. A full list of visa-exempt countries can be found on the official Government of Canada website​​.

For these visa-exempt travelers, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required if they are traveling to Canada by air. The eTA is linked to the traveler’s passport and is valid for up to five years, or until the passport expires, whichever comes first​. There are several exceptions where an eTA is not required:

• Individuals with a valid Canadian visa or status in Canada (e.g., tourist, student, or worker) who are returning after visiting the United States or Saint Pierre and Miquelon.
• French citizens residing in Saint Pierre and Miquelon flying directly to Canada from there.
• Foreign nationals on flights to or from the United States stopping in Canada for refueling, provided they have the necessary documentation for the U.S.
• Passengers on flights making unscheduled or emergency stops in Canada.
• Individuals transiting through a Canadian airport under the “Transit Without Visa” or “China Transit Program.”
• Flight crew, civil aviation inspectors, and accident investigators working in Canada.
• Members of armed forces of countries designated under the Visiting Forces Act coming to Canada for official duties.
• Diplomats accredited by the Government of Canada​​.

The eTA application is filled out online and requires entering personal information such as passport details, contact information, and answers to several health and security questions. There is a small fee of CAD $7 ($5) for submitting the eTA application. The eTA itself is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

Documents Required for Canada Visa

To apply for a visa to Canada, you need to provide general documents and those specific to the type of visa. For example, a tourist visa requires accommodation booking confirmation, proof of relationship for a family visa, and admission letters for a student visa. The list of general documents includes:

1. Completed application form for the required type of visa. Forms can be found on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
2. Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended entry into Canada. Copies of all passport pages, including those with visas and stamps, must also be provided.
3. Two photographs meeting the document photo requirements.
4. Invitation letter from a person or company in Canada, confirming the purpose of the visit (optional).
5. Proof of financial support. This can include bank statements for the last 6 months, employment letters indicating salary, or other documents.
6. Proof of travel purpose through hotel booking confirmation, travel itinerary, return tickets, event registration, etc.
7. Medical examination may be required, depending on the type of visa and the length of stay.
8. Receipt of the visa fee payment.

The Canada visa requirements for photos are regulated, down to the pose and facial expression. For visa application submission, two photographs must meet the following requirements:

• Size: 35 mm x 45 mm (1.37 inches x 1.77 inches).
• Uniform white or light background.
• Photos must be clear and without shadows.
• The face must occupy 31–36 mm (1.22–1.41 inches) from chin to crown.
• Neutral facial expression, mouth closed, eyes open, and looking directly at the camera.
• Glasses are allowed only if they do not cover the eyes or create glare. Head coverings are allowed only for religious reasons and should not cover the face.
• The photo must be taken no more than 6 months before the application submission.

Examples of photos showing the correct facial coverage and expression can be found on the official immigration service website.

Canada Visa Types

Visas can be divided into two main categories: immigration visas and non-immigration visas. Immigration visas are intended for individuals who plan to move to Canada permanently. A key example is the Permanent Resident Visa, which allows holders to live and work in Canada indefinitely.

Non-immigration visas are issued for temporary stays in Canada. Examples include the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), which allows individuals to stay in Canada for purposes such as tourism, study, or short-term work.

For each type of visa, there are common documents required as well as specific documents based on the visa type. Such as two passport-sized photos that meet the visa requirements and proof of payment of the visa application fee.

Canada visa types: 

Types	Description
B—1	Business Visitor allows participation in various business events, meetings, and negotiations.
C—1	Courtesy Visa is provided to foreign diplomats and consular officials who are not eligible for a diplomatic visa.
D—1	Diplomat Visa is issued to foreign diplomats.
IM—1	Immigrant Visa (single-entry visa for PR) is for entering Canada for those who have obtained permanent resident status.
0–1	Official Visa is issued for the entry of officials coming to Canada to perform official duties.
P A—1	Permit Holder is intended for temporary entry into Canada for work, study, or other temporary activities.
PAX—1	National Interest TRP is issued to foreign nationals whose presence in the country is considered important to Canada's national interests.
PC—1	Permit Holder with Valid TRP is assigned to individuals who have been issued a temporary residence permit in Canada and have a valid TRP.
PG—1	Parents or Grandparents Super Visa is for parents, grandmothers, or grandfathers of Canadian citizens who want to visit their children or grandchildren in Canada.
R—1	Passed-Residency Obligation is assigned to permanent residents of Canada who have successfully fulfilled their residency obligations.
RA—1	Presence at Appeal is assigned to individuals who are participating in the appeal process in Canada, confirming their presence at the immigration appeal hearing.
RC—1	Passed H&C — PR Travel Document (canada humanitarian visa) is issued to permanent residents of Canada who have successfully gone through the consideration process on Humanitarian and Compassionate grounds (H&C) and need to confirm their status to return to Canada.
S—1	Assigned to foreign students who have been admitted to an accredited educational institution in Canada and have received a Study Permit.
SW—1	Assigned to foreign students who, in addition to studying, are allowed to work in Canada based on a Work Permit issued to them.
SX—1	Canada v1 visa assigned to foreign students who do not need to obtain a Study Permit to study in Canada.
V—1	Visitor Visa to Canada is issued to foreign nationals who come to Canada for temporary visits.
VH—1	Issued for transit through the territory of Canada with the right to stay in the country for up to 48 hours.
W—1	Canada w1 visa is issued to foreign nationals who have obtained a Work Permit in Canada.
WX—1	Work Visa to Canada is issued to foreign nationals who are exempt from the requirement to obtain a Work Permit in Canada.

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

A Canadian Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) allows staying in the country for tourism, study, or work. It is issued to individuals who plan to stay in Canada temporarily and can demonstrate their intention to return to their home country upon the visa's expiration. For this visa, the following are required:

1. Valid passport with sufficient validity (usually at least six months beyond the intended date of entry into Canada).
2. Completed application forms:

• Temporary Resident Visa application form (IMM 5257).
• Family Information form (IMM 5645 or IMM 5707).
• Additional Travel Information form (if required, IMM 5562).

3. Two photos that meet the visa requirements.

4. Receipt for the visa application fee.

5. Proof of financial support with one of the following documents:

• Bank statements for the past few months.
• Letter from employer indicating income.
• Letter from sponsor (if applicable) with proof of financial capability.
• Evidence of property ownership (if applicable).

6. A letter from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident inviting the applicant to Canada, detailing the purpose of the visit and the responsibilities for expenses (If applicable).

7. Detailed travel plan including entry and exit dates, accommodation details, and travel routes within Canada.

8. Letter from employer confirming employment, job position, and duration (for work purposes).

9. Marriage certificates, birth certificates of children, and other documents proving family ties in the home country.

10. Medical examination conducted by an accredited physician if required for a long stay or for applicants from specific countries.

It is important to note that TRV is a general term that covers several types of visas for temporary stays in Canada. They are intended for those who are not permanent residents or citizens of Canada and wish to visit Canada temporarily for various reasons.

The most common subtypes include the Visitor Visa for entry into Canada as a tourist, to visit friends or relatives, or for short-term business trips. TRVs also include the Canada Family Visa, Student Visa, Work Permit, and Super Visa.

Canada Super Visa (SV)

The Super Visa is a long-term, multi-entry visa designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows holders to stay in Canada for up to two years at a time without renewing their status, and the visa itself is valid for up to 10 years. However, the continuous stay in the country should not exceed two years, whereas for a TRV, this period is six months. The criterias for obtaining a canada super visa for parents are as follows:

• Applicants must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• The Canadian host must provide a written invitation and a promise of financial support for the duration of the applicant's stay. They must also meet or exceed the minimum necessary income (Low Income Cut-Off, LICO).
• Applicants must have valid medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company with coverage of at least $100,000 CAD ($72,301) for a minimum of one year.
• Applicants must undergo an immigration medical examination by an accredited physician.
• Applicants must be outside Canada when they apply and must be admissible to Canada, meeting all other conditions such as ties to their home country and the purpose of their visit.

Canada's super visa requirements for documents: 

• Passport valid for the duration of the stay.
• Completed application forms, including the Temporary Resident Visa application form (IMM 5257) and the Family Information form (IMM 5645 or IMM 5707).
• Two photos meeting visa requirements.
• Receipts for the application processing fee and biometric fee.
• Invitation letter and proof of financial support from the Canadian host.
• Medical Insurance confirming coverage of at least $100,000 CAD ($72,301) for one year.
• Medical examination results.

The Super Visa is often issued under the Family Sponsorship program. This is one of the most common programs for family reunification in Canada. Through this program, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their close relatives to obtain a family visa to Canada.

Transit Visa (TV)

A Canadian transit visa allows individuals to pass through Canadian territory to another destination. This visa is required if the applicant's international flight stops at a Canadian airport and they will be in Canada for less than 48 hours. Applicants must have confirmed onward tickets and all necessary visas for their final destination.

Required documents:

• Valid passport with sufficient validity.
• Confirmed tickets for the next flight through Canada and supporting documents for the final destination.
• Visa for final destination (if required).
• Completed application form IMM 5257.
• Two photos that meet visa requirements.
• Biometrics.

Canada Business Visa (BV)

A Business Visa to Canada allows entrepreneurs and business people to enter the country for business purposes, such as attending conferences or meetings. Applicants must demonstrate the purpose of their visit and show that they have sufficient ties to their home country to ensure their return.

Canada business visa requirements for documents:

• Valid passport.
• Invitation letters from Canadian organizations, registration for business events, and other proof of business purposes.
• Bank statements, proof of income, and letters from sponsors (if applicable) as financial proof.
• Proof of ties to the home country including employment contracts, property documents, marriage certificates, and other evidence.
• Completed application form IMM 5257.

Canada Student Visa (Study Permit, SP)

A Canada Student Visa (Canada Education Visa), also known as a Study Permit, is issued to international students who wish to study at Canadian educational institutions. The permit is valid for the duration of the study program and can be extended if necessary. The main requirements for a Canadian student visa are enrollment in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada and providing an acceptance letter as proof.

Required documents:

• Valid passport. Must be valid for the duration of the stay.
• Letter of acceptance. From a recognized Canadian DLI.
• Financial proof. Documents showing sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation. As of January 2024, students need to show at least CAD $20,635 ($15,000) for living expenses.
• Police certificates. It is required if the applicant has lived in any country for more than six months since turning 18.
• Medical examination. Conducted by an approved physician if required.
• Completed application Form IMM 1294.
• Photographs. Two photos meeting visa requirements.
• Biometrics. Fingerprints and photographs may be required.

Application process:

• Select a DLI and obtain a letter of acceptance.
• Complete the IMM 1294 form and pay the application fee of CAD $150 ($108).
• Submit application online via MyCIC or in person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
• Some applications might need additional documents such as biometrics, police certificates, or a medical exam.

If approved, the applicant receives a letter of introduction and a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) if applicable, to enter Canada. The actual study permit will be issued upon arrival in Canada.

Work Visa to Canada (Work Permit, WP)

A Canadian Work Visa (Canada employment visa), or Work Permit, is issued to individuals who have received a job offer from a local employer and meet the program's requirements. Additionally, work permits may be granted under international agreements (e.g., NAFTA), programs for young professionals, and domestic programs such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit for graduates of Canadian educational institutions.

Сanada work permit visa requirements:

• Valid passport.
• Job offer from a Canadian employer.
• A detailed employment contract outlining job duties, salary, working conditions, and employment duration.
• Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). An LMIA may be required, which is a document that a Canadian employer needs to obtain to prove that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market.
• Evidence of the applicant's qualifications and work experience, including copies of diplomas, certificates, and references.
• Proof of sufficient funds to support oneself and any dependents during the stay in Canada.
• Health insurance covering the entire period of stay in Canada, along with a medical examination if required.
• The work permit application form (IMM 1295).

Application process:

• Apply online or in-person. Applications can be submitted online or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
• Pay fees. The standard fee for a work permit is CAD $155 ($112). An open work permit holder fee is an additional CAD $100 ($73).
• Biometrics. Biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) are required, with a fee of CAD $85 ($63).
• Supporting documents. Submission of all supporting documents such as employment proof, financial proof, and a completed medical exam if needed.

International students who graduate from Canadian institutions are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, which is similar to a work visa to Canada, and allows them to work for any employer in Canada.

Canadian Visitor Visa (VV)

A Visitor Visa to Canada is a subtype of the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and allows foreign nationals to temporarily enter Canada for tourism, visiting friends or relatives, or participating in short-term events. The visa is typically issued for up to six months but can be extended if necessary. 

Canadian visitor visa requirements:

• Plan to stay in Canada temporarily (tourism, visiting friends or relatives, or participating in short-term business activities).
• Can demonstrate their intent to return to their home country after the visa expires.
• Have sufficient funds to cover all expenses during their stay in Canada.
• Have good health and clean criminal records.

Documents needed for canada visitor visa:

• A valid passport with at least one blank page for the visa.
• A completed visa application form (IMM 5257).
• Bank statements, proof of income, or letters from employers or sponsors confirming that the applicant has sufficient funds to cover their stay in Canada.
• An invitation letter from relatives or friends in Canada stating that they invite the applicant and can provide accommodation during the visit (Visitor Visa based on invitation).
• A detailed travel itinerary, including information on accommodation, travel route, and return date to the home country.
• Medical insurance covering the entire duration of stay in Canada is recommended.
• Payment of the visa fee of CAD $100 ($73) and biometric fee of CAD $85 ($63), if applicable.
• In some cases, a police clearance certificate and medical examination results may be required.

Startup Visa (SUV)

The Canada startup visa (sometimes called the “Canada golden visa”) is an investment visa in Canada for entrepreneurs who wish to start a business and move to Canada as permanent residents. This program aims to attract talented entrepreneurs from around the world who can contribute to Canada's economic development. The Start-up Visa in Canada includes the following requirements:

• Innovative business idea. The business must be innovative, have the potential to create jobs for Canadians, and be competitive on a global scale.
• Support from a Canadian organization. The applicant must receive support from one of the following designated organizations:
  • Investment of at least $200,000 from a designated venture capital fund.
  • Minimum $75,000 from a designated angel investor group.
  • Acceptance into a business incubator program from one of the accredited incubators.
• Equity structure compliance. Up to five people can apply for the start-up visa. Each must own at least 10% of the voting shares, and together the applicants and the designated organization must own more than 50% of the voting shares.
• Language skills. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or French at a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in all four skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. 

Permanent Residence Visa (PRV)

A Permanent Residence Visa allows individuals to live and work in Canada permanently. Holders of this visa enjoy most of the rights and privileges of Canadian citizens, except for the right to vote and hold certain public offices. The government offers several programs to obtain canadian permanent resident visa:

• Express Entry is a system for managing applications for permanent residence from skilled workers through three federal programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class​.
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) enable Canadian provinces and territories to nominate candidates who wish to move to a specific region.
• Quebec-Selected Skilled Worker Program is for the province of Quebec, which has its own selection system for skilled workers.
• Family Sponsorship allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their close relatives.
• Start-up Visa is for entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Canada and create jobs.

To apply for permanent residence, applicants must meet minimum requirements based on the following criteria:

• Skilled work experience. Applicants work experience must match one of the categories in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) and have been gained within the last 10 years.
• Language proficiency. Applicants must pass approved tests in English or French and achieve minimum scores in all four skills (reading, writing,listening, and, speaking).
• Educational credentials. Candidates must have a Canadian diploma or its equivalent, confirmed through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
• Financial stability. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and their family after moving to Canada. This requirement does not apply to those with a valid job offer in Canada.
• Admissibility. All applicants must be admissible to Canada, meaning no criminal records, serious medical issues, or other factors that could hinder obtaining permanent resident status.

Application Process:

• Express Entry. Canada express entry visa сandidates create a profile in the Express Entry system and enter the pool of candidates. High-ranking candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
• Provincial Nominations. Applicants must first apply for a nomination from a province or territory and then apply at the federal level for final approval.
• Family Sponsorship. A sponsor (Canadian citizen or permanent resident) submits a sponsorship application, followed by the sponsored person applying for permanent residence.

Canada Digital Nomad Visa

There isn't a specific Сanada digital nomad visa, but the country does encourage remote workers, particularly those in the tech sector, to reside temporarily under existing visa frameworks. According to current Canadian immigration rules, digital nomads can stay in Canada for up to six months using a visitor status without the need for a work permit. This applies to individuals who can perform their jobs remotely for employers outside of Canada.

The Canadian government, through its Tech Talent Strategy, aims to attract and retain global tech talent and give them an opportunity to apply for a Canada talent visa. This strategy includes measures to simplify the process for highly skilled tech workers to enter and work in Canada. If a digital nomad finds employment with a Canadian company during their stay, they can apply for a temporary work permit to extend their stay an.

Eligibility requirements:

• Proof of employment or self-employment outside of Canada.
• Evidence of sufficient funds to support oneself during the stay.
• Documentation proving the ability to work remotely.
• Clean Criminal Record. A background check may be required.
• Coverage for the duration of the stay in Canada.

Canada eTA Visa 

eTA Canada (Electronic Travel Authorization) is an electronic visa for short-term visits such as tourism, business trips, or transit. The eTA is required for citizens of visa-exempt countries who wish to enter Canada by air. It is important to note that the eTA is not required for travel by land (car or bus) or sea (such as a cruise).

Documents required for eTA Application:

• A valid passport from a visa-exempt country for entry to Canada.
• Payment for the eTA processing fee.
• A valid email address where the eTA approval will be sent.

The application process involves filling out an online form on the official website. The form requires personal information, passport details, and some questions about health and criminal history. The processing fee must be paid using a credit or debit card.

In most cases, eTA applications are processed within minutes, and the applicant receives a notification at the provided email address. In rare instances, additional documents may be requested, which can take several days to process.

The eTA is linked to the passport, so a new application is required when obtaining a new passport. The authorization is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. The holder can enter Canada multiple times during the validity period, provided that each visit does not exceed six months.

How to Obtain a Canadian Visa

To understand how to obtain a Canadian visa, let’s outline the general steps. The visa application process begins with choosing the type of visa based on the purpose of the visit: tourist, work, or study. Each category has its own requirements and nuances. For example, long-term visas might require additional medical examinations beyond standard fingerprints and photographs during the biometrics stage. It is also crucial to adhere to timelines, as delays in submitting documents can lead to refusal.

Canada visa applications can be submitted directly at a consulate or online. To apply online, register on the IRCC website and create an account. Then, fill out the visa application form (IMM 5257) and upload all necessary documents electronically. The final step is to pay the visa fee and wait for a response.

Required documents for a visa application:

• A valid passport.
• Photographs that meet visa requirements.
• Proof of sufficient funds for the stay in Canada.
• An invitation letter (if required).
• Tickets or travel plans (for canada tourist visa).

Depending on the situation and visa type, additional documents may be required, such as proof of employment or studies, and information about family or planned activities.

After submission, the applicant will receive a letter indicating where and when to provide biometric data, usually within 30 days of receiving the letter. During the application review, immigration authorities may request additional documents or an interview. Once the review is complete, the applicant will be notified of the decision. If the visa is approved, the passport will be returned with the visa attached. In case of refusal, a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal will be sent by the immigration officer. If the provided information is incomplete, the letter will include the application itself.

Canada Visa Timeline

A visa application starts with the preparation of the necessary documents. There are no specific timeframes, as the document collection process depends on external factors and usually takes from 3 days to two weeks. The list of documents includes flight details, accommodation confirmation, bank statements, and forms relevant to the visa type.

The application can be submitted online through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal. To upload the necessary documents, a good scanner or a high-resolution camera will be needed. Fee payments can also be made online through the official website. From the moment the application is submitted, the official processing time begins, which includes the following stages:

• Biometric data submission. An invitation is received to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo). The waiting time depends on the availability and workload of the nearest visa application center.
• Application review. The application is checked for completeness and compliance with the requirements. This stage may include requests for additional documents, interviews, medical examinations, or police clearance certificates. The review usually takes from 15 to 30 business days.
• Decision and notification. After all checks are completed, the decision will be communicated. If the application is approved, the passport must be sent for visa issuance, or an appointment at the visa application center must be made, which takes from 2 to 5 business days.
• Entry to Canada. With a visa in the passport, entry to Canada is permitted. Upon arrival, a border services officer will verify the applicant's identity and make the final decision on entry and the duration of the visa. Usually, a stay of up to six months is allowed.

The average processing time for a Canadian visa varies significantly depending on the type of visa and the applicant's country of origin. The official website provides estimated processing times based on the type of application, visa category, and country of origin. Here are some examples:

For temporary residence applications (visiting, studying, working) and visitor visas processed outside Canada, the processing times for different countries are as follows:

• India: 53 days
• Nigeria: 187 days
• US: 42 days
• Portugal: 139 days
• Russia: 86 days

For student visas processed from different countries, the processing time is approximately 9 weeks when applying from outside Canada and 5 weeks when applying from within Canada. During this period, applicants need to receive an acceptance letter from a Canadian educational institution, complete the application form, pay the fee, provide biometric data, undergo a medical examination, and submit the documents.

The average processing times for temporary resident work visas by country are:

• India: 19 weeks
• Nigeria: 15 weeks
• US: 23 weeks
• Portugal: Not applicable
• Russia: 57 weeks

Canadian Visa Denial

The Canadian immigration authorities reserve the right to deny a visa application. Generally, there are two possible outcomes in such cases. The first is a refusal, which occurs when the applicant does not meet the minimum entry requirements. Reasons for refusal may include health issues, a criminal background, or insufficient proof of financial stability.

The second outcome is a return of the application. This can happen due to incomplete information, poorly filled forms, or missing necessary canada visa documents.

Common Reasons for Canadian Visa Denial:

• Insufficient financial guarantees. Failure to provide adequate proof of financial stability or sources of funding.
• Incomplete or incorrect documentation. Submitting an incomplete set of documents or providing incorrect information.
• Lack of strong ties to the home country. Insufficient evidence that the applicant will return to their home country after the visit.
• Previous visa violations. A history of visa or immigration rule violations in Canada or other countries.
• Incorrect purpose of visit. Discrepancy between the stated purpose of the visit and the actual planned activities in Canada.
• Insufficient language proficiency. Need to demonstrate proficiency in English or French for certain types of visas.

In case of a refusal, it is crucial to review the refusal letter, which should specify the reasons for the denial. If the applicant is outside Canada, they can request information through ATIP (Access to Information and Privacy) to understand the reasons behind the refusal.

If the issue is legal, such as incomplete documentation or incorrect form filling, seeking assistance from an immigration lawyer or consultant is advisable to address the problems for reapplication. After addressing the issues, one can either appeal or submit a new application.

A new application should be submitted only if there is new data or changes in the situation, such as resolving medical or criminal issues, or providing additional financial proof.