Canada Business and Tourist eVisa for Nepali Citizens: Everything You Need to Know

If you are a Nepali citizen planning to visit Canada for tourism or business purposes, applying for a Canada Business or Tourist eVisa is the first step. The eVisa system allows you to apply online for a short-term visit to Canada, making the process quicker and more efficient. This guide will walk you through the different types of eVisas available, the application process, and everything you need to know to successfully apply for your Canada visa.

1. Understanding the Canada Business and Tourist eVisa

The Canada Business and Tourist eVisa falls under the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) category. This visa type allows you to visit Canada for short-term purposes such as:

• Tourism: Exploring Canada's cities, landscapes, and attractions.

• Business: Attending meetings, conferences, or events.

• Visiting Family or Friends: Spending time with loved ones in Canada.

The eVisa is a convenient and straightforward way to obtain approval for your visit to Canada. It allows you to travel to Canada for a specific period (usually up to 6 months) for tourism or business purposes.

2. Passport Requirements

Before applying for the Canada eVisa, ensure your passport meets the following basic requirements:

• Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Canada. This ensures that you won't face any issues with your passport expiring while you're in Canada.

• Blank Pages: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps and endorsements.

It is crucial to ensure that your passport complies with these basic requirements to avoid delays in the visa application process.

3. Types of Canada Business and Tourist eVisas

Tourist eVisa

This visa is ideal for those traveling to Canada for leisure, sightseeing, or to visit family and friends. It is also suitable for individuals attending social events or non-business activities.

Business eVisa

If you are visiting Canada for business purposes, such as attending conferences, business meetings, or networking events, you need to apply for a Canada Business eVisa. This visa allows you to conduct business activities temporarily.

4. Key Documents Required for eVisa Application

To apply for a Canada Business and Tourist eVisa, you will need to provide several essential documents to prove your eligibility. These documents include:

Covering Letter

A covering letter is a necessary part of your visa application. It should be formal and include:

• Personal Information: Your full name, passport number, and details of anyone accompanying you (if applicable).

• Purpose of Visit: Clearly mention the purpose of your visit (tourism, business, or visiting family/friends).

• Travel Dates: Your intended travel dates to and from Canada and the duration of your stay.

• Financial Responsibility: Specify who will bear the expenses of your trip (self-funded or sponsored by someone else).

• Accommodation Details: Information about where you will be staying during your visit (hotel bookings or with a host).

This letter will provide Canadian authorities with an understanding of your visit and assure them of your temporary stay.

Invitation Letter (If Applicable)

If you are visiting family, friends, or attending a business event, an invitation letter from your host or event organizer is necessary. The invitation letter should include:

• Host’s Details: Name, address, and contact information of the person or organization inviting you.

• Event Information (for business visas): If attending a business meeting or conference, include details of the event.

• Confirmation of Registration: For business or academic purposes, provide confirmation of your registration.

Proof of Financial Support

You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Canada. This can be shown by:

• Bank Statements: Recent bank statements (typically the last 3–6 months) showing sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Canada.

• Proof of Income: Salary certificates, tax returns, or income statements.

• Sponsor’s Financial Documents (if applicable): If your trip is sponsored, the sponsor must provide their bank statements and income tax returns.

Travel Itinerary and Hotel Reservations

• Flight Reservations: Provide confirmed flight bookings showing your entry and exit dates from Canada.

• Hotel Bookings: Proof of accommodation arrangements for the duration of your stay in Canada. If staying with family or friends, the invitation letter should confirm this.

5. Complete the Online Application Form

To apply for a Canada Business and Tourist eVisa, you must fill out the Canada Visa Application Form (IMM 5257). This form requires you to provide personal details, travel information, and the purpose of your trip.

The form is available for online submission through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada)portal. Be sure to complete the form accurately to avoid delays or rejection.

6. Pay the Application Fee

Once you have completed the application form, you will need to pay the visa application fee. The fee varies depending on the type of visa and services requested (such as biometrics). Payment can be made online through the IRCC portalusing a credit card or debit card.

7. Biometrics Appointment (If Required)

In many cases, you will need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) as part of the visa application process. After submitting your application, you will receive instructions on how and where to provide your biometrics at a Visa Application Center (VAC).

8. Submit Your Application

After completing the application form, gathering required documents, and paying the application fee, you can submit your application online through the IRCC portal. Make sure to upload all necessary documents, including your passport copy, financial proof, invitation letter (if applicable), and travel itinerary.

9. Wait for Processing

Once your application has been submitted, Canadian immigration authorities will process it. Processing times can vary, but typically it takes around 10 to 20 business days for your application to be processed.

You can check the status of your application through your IRCC account.

10. Visa Approval and Travel to Canada

Once your visa application is approved, you will receive your Canada Business or Tourist eVisa. Depending on the method of submission, you may receive your visa electronically or as a visa sticker affixed to your passport.

When you arrive in Canada, be sure to have the following documents ready for inspection:

• Your passport with the approved visa.

• Flight details and hotel reservations.

• Proof of financial support and invitation letter (if applicable).