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Applying for a Canada visit visa involves several steps, each of which may require the payment of different fees. Understanding these fees is crucial for budgeting your trip and ensuring your application process goes smoothly. This guide will walk you through the various types of fees associated with a Canada visit visa, helping you prepare for each stage of the application process.

Overview of Canada Visit Visa Fees

When applying for a Canada visit visa, you will encounter multiple fees that cover different aspects of the application process. These fees typically include:

  • Application Fee: This is the primary fee required for processing your visa application. It is mandatory for all applicants and covers the administrative costs of processing your application.

  • Biometric Fee: Most applicants are required to submit biometric information, which includes fingerprints and a photograph. The biometric fee covers the cost of collecting and processing this data.

  • Visa Application Center (VAC) Service Fee: If you submit your application through a Visa Application Center (VAC), there may be additional service fees for handling your documents, biometrics, and passport.

  • Other Potential Fees: Depending on your situation, there might be additional fees, such as those for medical exams, police certificates, or courier services for returning your passport.

Application Fee for Canada Visit Visa

The application fee is the primary charge for processing your visa. This fee is mandatory and must be paid when you submit your application, whether online or through a VAC. The standard application fee for a Canada visit visa is CAD $100 per person.

If you are applying as a family, there are no special discounts; each family member must pay the full application fee. It’s important to note that this fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

Biometric Fee for Canada Visit Visa

Biometrics are required for most applicants when applying for a Canada visit visa. This process involves the collection of your fingerprints and a photograph, which are used to verify your identity and enhance the security of your application. The biometric fee is CAD $85 per person.

For families applying together at the same time, the maximum biometric fee is capped at CAD $170. This fee covers the cost of collecting and processing your biometric data and must be paid before scheduling your biometric appointment.

Visa Application Center (VAC) Service Fees

If you submit your application through a Visa Application Center (VAC), there are additional service fees. These fees vary depending on the services provided by the VAC, but they generally cover:

  • Document Handling: Processing and forwarding your application documents to the Canadian visa office.

  • Biometric Collection: If you provide your biometrics at a VAC, there might be an additional fee on top of the biometric fee.

  • Passport Transmission: After your visa decision is made, the VAC will forward your passport back to you, which may involve a courier fee.

VAC service fees differ from country to country, so it’s essential to check the specific fees applicable at your local VAC.

Other Potential Fees

In addition to the main fees, you might encounter other charges depending on your specific circumstances:

  • Medical Exam Fee: If you are required to undergo a medical examination as part of your application, the cost will vary based on the medical practitioner and the country where you are applying. This fee is paid directly to the medical facility.

  • Police Clearance Certificate Fee: Some applicants may need to provide a police clearance certificate to demonstrate they have no criminal record. The fee for obtaining this certificate varies by country and is paid to the issuing authority.

  • Courier Fees: If you need your documents or passport sent back via courier, there may be additional charges. This is especially common for those applying from regions where VACs are not easily accessible.

How to Pay Canada Visit Visa Fees

Payment methods for Canada visit visa fees depend on how you submit your application:

  • Online Applications: When applying online, you can pay your fees using a credit card or other online payment methods accepted by the Government of Canada’s payment portal. You will receive a receipt, which you should keep for your records.

  • VAC Submissions: If you are applying through a Visa Application Center, you can typically pay your fees in cash, by credit card, or through other payment methods accepted by the VAC. It’s important to confirm payment options with your local VAC before applying.

  • Bank Payments: In some cases, especially in regions where online payment options are limited, you may be required to pay the fees through a bank draft or wire transfer. Check with your local VAC or the Canadian embassy for specific payment instructions.

Refund Policy for Canada Visit Visa Fees

Visa fees are generally non-refundable. Once you pay the application fee, it will not be returned, even if your application is refused. The same applies to biometric and VAC service fees. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your application is complete and accurate before submission to avoid unnecessary expenses.

FAQs

What is the application fee for a Canada visit visa?
The application fee for a Canada visit visa is CAD $100 per person. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and is non-refundable.

Do I need to pay a biometric fee for a Canada visit visa?
Yes, most applicants are required to pay a biometric fee of CAD $85. This fee covers the collection and processing of your fingerprints and photograph.

Are there additional fees when applying through a Visa Application Center (VAC)?
Yes, applying through a VAC often incurs additional service fees, including document handling and passport transmission fees. These fees vary depending on the VAC and country.

Can I get a refund if my Canada visit visa application is rejected?
No, visa fees, including the application, biometric, and VAC service fees, are non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied.

How can I pay the Canada visit visa fees?
Visa fees can be paid online using a credit card when applying online or in cash, by credit card, or bank draft when applying through a VAC. Always confirm the payment options available in your country.

Are there any discounts for families applying for a Canada visit visa?
There are no discounts on the application fee for families. Each member must pay the full CAD $100 application fee. However, biometric fees are capped at CAD $170 for families applying together.

Conclusion

Understanding the various fees associated with a Canada visit visa is essential for planning and budgeting your trip. From the application fee to biometric and VAC service fees, knowing what to expect can help you avoid surprises and ensure a smooth application process. Always ensure that you pay the correct fees and keep records of your payments to streamline your visa application experience.