Thinking about snagging a job in Canada all the way from Saudi Arabia?
Smart choice!
But, before you start sending out those job applications, there’s a little pitstop you need to make:
Grabbing a Canada visit visa.
Citizens of several countries, including Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Bangladesh, and Egypt, require a visa to enter Canada.
Lucky for you, I’ve got the lowdown on the step-by-step process for all of you eyeing a Canada visit visa.
I’ll spill the deets to make sure you learn the process to get a Canada visit visa without a hitch.
Also Read: How to Apply for a Permanent Family Visa in Saudi Arabia
Checklist for Canada Visit Visa
Alright, ready for the checklist to kick off that Canada visit visa from Saudi Arabia?
Here we go:
- Valid passport with a copy (minimum validity of 6 months).
- Print the Tourist Visa Application form.
- Two photos with a white background.
- 3-month bank statement with a minimum balance of $CAN 15,000.
- Iqama copy.
- Salary Certificate stamped by the Chamber of Commerce.
- Exit Re-Entry Visa.
- VFS Appointment for Jeddah, Riyadh, or Dammam.
- Booking for an airline ticket.
- Hotel booking.
- Previous Canada/UK/USA visas (if applicable).
- Invitation letter (for business trips).
- Debit/Credit Card for fee payment.
- Print VFS Consent Form.
- Print Document Checklist.
Psst, make sure everything’s in order and complete. Incomplete stuff might get rejected.
Also, read: Navigating Saudi Arabia Visa System
Additional Requirements
Be ready for the possibility of an interview, more information, a medical exam, or a police certificate.
They’ll guide you on what’s needed.
Moreover, immigration consultants can provide valuable knowledge and insights for those planning to visit new places like Canada.
Read on to discover the best immigration consultants in Riyadh.
Inadmissibility to Canada
Heads up!
Some people aren’t allowed in Canada due to inadmissibility.
This can come from:
- Criminal activity (might even get you blacklisted in Saudi Arabia).
- Human rights violations.
- Organized crime.
Always double-check the specific document requirements for your situation before applying for a visa.
Visa Application Form
To fill out the Canada visit visa application form, follow these steps:
- Register with the IRCC Portal Account.
- Fill out the Canadian visa application online.
- Print the filled visa application.
Canada Visa Fee
The non-refundable fees for a Canada visit visa from Saudi Arabia are as follows
Visa Fee
- $CAN 100 per person.
- $CAN 500 for a family of 5 or above.
Biometric Fee
- $CAN 85 per person.
- $CAN 170 for a family of 2 or above.
Canada Visit Visa Processing Time
When it comes to the Canada visit visa processing time, the VFS office suggests a processing time of 40 days, but the reality often kicks in sooner, with an average duration of around 3 weeks.
To keep the excitement (and maybe a bit of impatience) at bay, make good friends with your IRCC Portal Account.
Use the application status tracker to stay in the loop and get the inside scoop on where your application is at.
It’s as simple as creating an account with your unique client identifier (UCI) and application number.
So, whether it’s a waiting game or a quick turnaround, you’ll be in the know.
Biometrics Appointment
Schedule your biometrics appointment ASAP to keep the visa process moving without any hiccups.
Collection of Passport
When VFS gives you the green light that your passport is ready for pickup at the Canadian Embassy, make sure you grab the essentials:
- Stamped biographic page of your passport.
- Original Visa Application Centre Services Receipt.
- Original Iqama.
Final Thoughts
So, the key to kickstarting your job in Canada from Saudi Arabia is securing that Canada visit visa.
It seems a bit difficult but it’s doable.
By following the steps mentioned in this guide, land that dream job in Canada from Saudi Arabia with confidence.
If this was of any help, share it!
For now, Ma Salama and best of luck on this exciting chapter in your career!