Canada Visitor Visa (TRV) from Dubai: A Complete Guide for UAE Residents

2. Create Your IRCC Online Account

Everything happens in Canada’s IRCC system:

• Head to the //www.canada.ca/ site and pick “Visitor visa (TRV)”.
• Register with your email.
• Log in to access the dashboard- your personal hub for application forms, messages, uploading, and tracking.

Keep your credentials safe- this dashboard is your key to the process.

3. Fill Out Form IMM 5257

Within your IRCC account:

• Open IMM 5257 and complete it fully- passport info, travel dates, background.
• Depending on your situation, you might need extra forms like IMM 5645 (family info) or Schedule 1 for past travel history.
• Take your time- errors or omissions could delay things.

Use clear, consistent info across all forms to avoid confusion.

4. Upload Your Documents

Once forms are done, time to upload:

• Passport scans (personal detail pages and UAE residence page).
• Photos meeting Canadian specs (50 × 70 mm, white background).
• Proof of funds: recent statements, salary slips, employment letters.
• Travel itinerary: flight and lodging reservations.
• Invitation or cover letters, if visiting friends or attending an event.

At this stage, it’s also important to clearly explain your purpose of travel and show that you have strong reasons to return to the UAE. This is where your supporting documents- like employer letters, tenancy agreements, or proof of family ties- matter most. Immigration officers review these closely to decide whether your trip looks temporary and well-grounded.

A clean, well-organized application increases your chances of avoiding delays or requests for additional info-so spend a little extra time here to save weeks later.

5. Pay Visa & Biometrics Fees

Time for the payments:

• TRV application fee: CAD 100 per person.
• Biometrics fee: CAD 85 per person (or CAD 170 total if you’re applying with family).

Here’s how it rolls:

• Pay through your IRCC account.
• You’ll receive a Biometric Instruction Letter.
• Schedule your biometrics appointment-Dubai operates via VFS Global VAC, Wafi Mall (3rd floor).
• Visit on your appointment date with the letter and your passport for fingerprints and photos.

That completes the “apply + biometrics” phase.

6. Track Your Application

After submitting forms and completing biometrics:

• You’ll get updates via IRCC account email alerts.
• Use your dashboard or VFS portal to monitor status.
• Standard processing time from Dubai: 3-6 weeks (around 22 days on average)
• If extra documents are needed, you’ll be notified. Submit them quickly to avoid delays.
• Interviews are rare, but possible- just follow IRCC instructions.

Minor tip: If you applied around a holiday, processing might slow a bit.

7. Get Your Passport & Visa

Once approved:

• You’ll receive notification- either to collect your passport from VFS or wait for it via courier (based on your chosen method).
• Check your visa inside: name spelling, validity dates, visa type (Temporary Resident Visa).
• Found errors? Let ezee Visa know immediately- we’ll help you correct it.

Now you're fully set to board your flight.

8. Prepare for Entry

Before heading out:

• TRVs usually permit up to a maximum stay of 6 months per visit, unless otherwise stated.
• At the point of entry in Canada, have your return-flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and some paperwork regarding financial status for your stay ready.
• If you wish to stay beyond the time allowed while in Canada, modifications for a longer stay can be submitted online as an extension prior to the requisite time allowing enquiries.

Dealing with Unexpected Delays

If your application has reached a processing timeline that you deem acceptable and there has not been any progress, it is perfectly appropriate to inquire about it. Use the official IRCC web form to inquire about your application status. Make sure that your inquiry is polite and to the point and offer your application number, if available, so they can find your file more efficiently.

In some cases, particularly in emergencies like pressing family issues or health reasons, you can give some details about these in your request. There is no fast-tracked service for visitor visas but it may help to highlight your case as one that requires prioritization. Just be calm and do not attempt panic re-submissions or follow-ups that will confuse matters and potentially lead to duplicate applications.

How ezee Visa Can Help

Let’s be honest- even though the process looks manageable, the details can get tricky. That’s where we come in. At ezee Visa, we’re not just about filling out forms — we’re about giving you peace of mind throughout the entire journey. We help you prepare every part of your application, from crafting a solid purpose letter to booking your biometrics appointment and keeping tabs on your case after submission.

We know what Canadian visa officers look for, and we know where most applicants go wrong. Our job is to make sure you don’t. With personalized attention and step-by-step support, we help increase your chances of success while saving you time and stress.

Conclusion

A Canada TRV from Dubai isn’t as complicated as it may first appear. If you follow the right steps- apply online with complete documents, complete your biometrics on time, clearly state your travel plans, and prove your ties to the UAE- you’re already on the right track. With a bit of planning and the right support, your Canadian visit can become a reality without the headache.

Call to Action

If you're ready to visit Canada and not sure how to get started, let ezee Visa help simplify your application. We handle every single technical aspect and you can focus on your travel itinerary. Contact our team today and let's get you the first steps towards your Canada visitor visa with confidence.