IMM 5257 — Application for Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor Visa / TRV)
Primary form for Canadian visitor visa applications. Submitted by applicants from visa-required countries (including Pakistan, India, Philippines, China, etc.) seeking to visit Canada for tourism, family, business, or transit.
What this form is for
Primary form for Canadian visitor visa applications. Submitted by applicants from visa-required countries (including Pakistan, India, Philippines, China, etc.) seeking to visit Canada for tourism, family, business, or transit.
Who completes it
Visitor visa applicants from visa-required countries
Programs that use IMM 5257
Sections covered in the form
- Personal details + passport information
- Purpose of visit (tourism, family, business, etc.)
- Intended duration and dates of visit
- Funds available (in CAD equivalent)
- Travel history (last 10 years)
- Family in Canada (host details)
- Background information
Common mistakes on IMM 5257
⚠ Most-watched-for errors
The errors below are the ones we most commonly see when reviewing files from prior representatives or self-prepared applications. Each one risks procedural fairness letters, refusals, or misrepresentation findings.
- Vague purpose of visit ('to see family' without specifying who, when, for what)
- Insufficient funds declared without supporting evidence
- Travel history gaps — every prior international visit must be listed
- Family-in-Canada section incomplete — must declare any relatives in Canada and their status
Halani's notes on IMM 5257
Submit alongside IMM 5645 (Family Information), IMM 5257B (Schedule 1), and supporting documents (invitation letter, financial proof, ties-to-home evidence).
Where to download IMM 5257
Always download the current version directly from canada.ca — older versions get rejected. The IRCC forms catalogue is at canada.ca/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides.
Filling IMM 5257? Get it right the first time.
Halani Immigration Services Inc. (RCIC-IRB R711322) prepares every IRCC form as part of a complete application package. Free 15-min review of your form package.
Free Form Review →Related: All IRCC forms · Immigration glossary · Express Entry · Visitor visa