Quick Answer

Let's cut to the chase: Yes, Malaysian citizens need a visa to enter Canada for tourism, work, or study. You can't use the simple Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) unless you meet very specific criteria. The process involves an online application, gathering documents, paying fees, and providing your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a designated visa application centre.

Key Facts About Canada Visas for Malaysians

Here's the lowdown on what you need to know before you start your application.

• Visa Required: A visa is mandatory for Malaysian passport holders for all types of travel to Canada.

• Application Method: Most applications are submitted online through the official Government of Canada website.

• Biometrics Needed: You must provide fingerprints and a photo at a Visa Application Centre (VAC), like VFS Global in Kuala Lumpur.

• Biometrics Validity: If you've given biometrics for a Canadian visa in the last 10 years, they may still be valid.

• Visitor Visa Fee: The standard visitor visa application fee starts at CAD 100 per person.

• Biometrics Fee: The biometrics fee is CAD 85 per person.

• Family Discount: A family of five or more applying for visitor visas at the same time may have a maximum fee of CAD 500.

• Work Permits: A work permit application, if approved, includes a visitor visa to enter Canada.

How to Apply for a Canada Visitor Visa from Malaysia: Step-by-Step

The struggle is real when it comes to visa paperwork. Follow these steps to make it smoother.

• Confirm Your Visa Type: Use the Canadian government's online tool to determine if you need a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit.

• Gather Your Docs: Prepare all required documents. This usually includes your passport, proof of funds, travel itinerary, and passport-sized photos.

• Start Your Online Application: Create an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal and upload your documents.

• Pay the Fees: Pay the visa application fee (from CAD 100) and the biometrics fee (CAD 85) online.

• Book Your Biometrics Appointment: After payment, you'll receive instructions to book an appointment at the designated Visa Application Centre to give your fingerprints and photo.

• Track Your Application: Once submitted, you can monitor the status of your application online. Processing times vary.

Working or Studying in Canada?

• Work Permits: To work in Canada, you'll typically need a work permit, which often requires a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. If your work permit is approved, you won't need to apply for a separate visitor visa.

• Study Permits: For studying in Canada, you must apply for a study permit. This process also has its own specific document requirements, including an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution.

FAQs

What documents do Malaysians need for a Canada tourist visa?

You'll generally need a valid passport, proof of financial support to cover your trip, passport-sized photos, a travel itinerary, and a letter explaining the purpose of your visit.

How much does a Canadian visa cost for a Malaysian?

A visitor visa fee starts from CAD 100 per person, plus a mandatory biometrics fee of CAD 85. There may be additional service charges at the application centre.

Do Malaysians need to give biometrics for a Canada visa?

Yes, most applicants from Malaysia need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo). This is done at a Visa Application Centre after you've submitted your application online.

How can I book a biometrics appointment in Malaysia?

After paying your visa fees online, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) which will allow you to book an appointment at the designated centre, such as VFS Global in Kuala Lumpur.

Can a Malaysian apply for a Canadian visa online?

Yes, the standard and most efficient way to apply is through the official Government of Canada (IRCC) online portal.

What is the processing time for a Canadian visa in Malaysia?

Processing times vary significantly based on application volume and the type of visa. You should check the official Canadian government website for the most current processing time estimates.

References

• Government of Canada: Find out if you need a visa

• Government of Canada: How to apply for a visitor visa

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