Canadian Engagement Visa: Unraveling the Application Requirements
If you are looking to bring your fiancé or fiancée to Canada to get married, you would require a Canadian engagement visa. The Canadian government offers such visas to allow a foreign national to come to Canada and get married to their Canadian partner.
Before applying for a Canadian engagement visa, it is essential to understand the process and requirements involved. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about a Canadian engagement visa, including the eligibility criteria, application process, and FAQs.
Eligibility Criteria for a Canadian Engagement Visa
To apply for a Canadian engagement visa, you would need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old;
- You must be a Canadian citizen, Canadian permanent resident, or registered Indian status
- You have met your foreign fiancé or fiancée in person at least once in the last two years;
- Your relationship with your fiancé or fiancée is genuine;
- You have a plan to get married within 90 days of your fiancé or fiancée’s arrival in Canada;
- You and your fiancé or fiancée are not inadmissible to Canada due to criminality, medical reasons, or security reasons;
- You are financially capable of supporting your fiancé or fiancée during their stay in Canada.
Application Process for Canadian Engagement Visa
The application process for a Canadian engagement visa involves the following steps:
Step 1: Gather Documents
Before submitting an application for a Canadian engagement visa, ensure that you have gathered all relevant documents. These may include a valid passport, marriage certificate, proof of funds, and proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
The next step is to fill out the application form. You can either apply online or apply on paper. If you choose to apply online, you would need to create an account with the Canadian government’s website and fill out the necessary details.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
Once you have completed the application form, you would need to pay the application fees. The current fee for a Canadian engagement visa is CAD 1040. You can pay the fees online using a credit card.
Step 4: Submit the Application
After paying the fees, you would need to submit your application to the Canadian government. If you have applied online, you can submit your application by clicking the submit button. If you have applied on paper, you would need to mail your application to the appropriate office.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to process a Canadian engagement visa?
The processing time for a Canadian engagement visa depends on several factors, including the volume of applications received, the completeness of the application, and the time it takes for the government to verify the information provided. Typically, the processing time is around four to six months.
2. Can my fiancé or fiancée work in Canada on an engagement visa?
No, an engagement visa does not allow your fiancé or fiancée to work in Canada. However, they can apply for a work permit once they arrived in Canada.
3. Can I sponsor my fiancé or fiancée for permanent residence after getting married in Canada?
Yes, you can sponsor your spouse for permanent residence after getting married in Canada. Sponsoring a spouse for permanent residency is a separate process, and it has its set of eligibility criteria and requirements.
4. What happens if my application for a Canadian engagement visa gets rejected?
If your application for a Canadian engagement visa gets rejected, you can submit an appeal. The appeal process may take six to twelve months, and there are no guarantees that your application will be approved.
Conclusion
Applying for a Canadian engagement visa can be a lengthy and challenging process. It is essential to understand the eligibility criteria and prepare all the necessary documents before applying. With this article’s information, you can confidently prepare for the application process and increase your chances of success.