Want to visit Canada for tourism, visiting family, or a short business trip? You'll need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). This lets you stay in Canada for up to 6 months. The process is done entirely online through the IRCC website. Fair warning: Canada has become stricter with visitor visas in recent years, so you'll need a strong application showing you have reasons to return to Algeria.
Fees: CAD $100 application fee + CAD $85 biometrics
Processing time: Usually 4-8 weeks from Algeria
Visa center in Algeria: VFS Global Algiers
Biometrics: Fingerprints required at VFS Global Algiers
Before applying online, prepare all your documents. The key to a successful Canadian visitor visa is proving two things: (1) you can afford the trip, and (2) you have strong reasons to return to Algeria. You'll need to clearly explain: why you're visiting, how long you'll stay, where you'll stay, and who's paying.
Estimated duration: 1-2 weeks
Tip: If someone in Canada is inviting you, ask them to write a formal invitation letter including: their full name, address, status in Canada (citizen/PR), your relationship, who's paying for the trip, and where you'll stay. Include their proof of status (Canadian passport or PR card copy).
For applicants in Algeria: For bank statements, use CPA, BNA, BEA, or any recognized Algerian bank. Show consistent income over 3+ months. If you're a business owner, include your Registre de Commerce and tax declarations.
Create an account on the IRCC website, fill out the application forms, upload your documents, and pay the fee online. Everything is done digitally — no need to visit an office for the application itself.
Estimated duration: 1-2 hours to fill out + 4-8 weeks processing
Tip: You'll need an international payment card (Visa/Mastercard) for the fee. Algerian CIB cards usually don't work — use Wise or Paysera.
After submitting your online application, you'll be asked to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at VFS Global in Algiers. Book an appointment and bring your passport and the biometrics instruction letter from IRCC.
Estimated duration: 30 minutes at VFS + 4-8 weeks for decision