Letter Of Explanation For Canada Visitor Visa | Letter of Explanation (LOE) After Canada Visitor Visa Refusal
When a Canada Visitor Visa application is refused, the Letter of Explanation (LOE)—also referred to as a Refusal SOP—becomes a critical tool in securing a second opportunity. Canada remains one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations, welcoming millions of international visitors each year. However, the rigorous assessment criteria applied by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) means that many applications are denied due to insufficient evidence, unclear intentions, or lack of proper documentation. If you’ve found yourself on the receiving end of a refusal, an expertly crafted Letter Of Explanation For Canada Visitor Visa may significantly improve your chances of approval upon re-application.
What is a Letter of Explanation (LoE) for Canada?
A Letter of Explanation (LoE) is a formal document submitted alongside your Canadian visa or immigration application to provide context, justification, or clarification regarding aspects of your file that may otherwise raise concerns during the review process. While not a mandatory document in all cases, the LoE can play a critical role in strengthening your application, particularly in situations where certain information may appear incomplete, inconsistent, or missing.
In the context of a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV), a well-crafted LoE can address:
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Gaps or discrepancies in documentation (e.g., missing employment records or income details),
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Justifications for limited travel history,
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Clarifications of financial support, or
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Explanations regarding previous visa refusals.
In the case of Study Permit applications, an LoE may also serve as a Statement of Purpose (SOP), outlining the applicant’s academic goals, ties to their home country, and intentions to return after studies.
Ultimately, an LoE offers visa officers the context they need to make a fair and informed decision on your file. When written with precision and transparency, it can bridge critical gaps and demonstrate your credibility and compliance with Canadian immigration expectations.
How to Write a Strong Letter of Explanation for a Canada Visitor Visa Application
Writing an effective Letter of Explanation for a Canadian Visitor Visa requires a structured, honest, and fact-based approach. Below is a professional guide to ensure your LoE meets the standards expected by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):
1. Start with a Clear and Formal Introduction
Open with a respectful salutation addressed to the IRCC officer. Clearly state the purpose of the letter (e.g., to clarify a specific issue, provide missing context, or address a concern raised in a prior application or refusal).
Example:
“Subject: Letter of Explanation – Visitor Visa Application (UCI: [Your UCI Number])
Dear Visa Officer,
I am writing to provide further explanation and context regarding my application for a Canadian Visitor Visa, submitted on [Date]. This letter addresses [e.g., financial documentation, travel history, prior visa refusal] in order to support a comprehensive and accurate review of my case.”
Letter of Explanation Canada Sample
2. Address Each Concern or Document Gap Systematically
If you are responding to a previous visa refusal, quote or paraphrase the specific reasons mentioned in the refusal letter, and provide your explanation or documentation for each.
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Missing Documentation:
“Due to administrative delays, my original application did not include a recent employment letter. I am now enclosing a verified employment confirmation letter from my employer, [Company Name], dated [Date], confirming my full-time position as [Job Title] since [Start Date], with an annual income of [Amount].”
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Insufficient Travel History:
“While my travel history may appear limited, I have previously visited [Country Names] in [Years], and I am committed to adhering to all Canadian immigration laws, including leaving Canada upon the expiry of my authorized stay.”
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Financial Concerns:
“My bank statements for the past 6 months, attached herewith, reflect a consistent monthly income and a current available balance of [CAD Amount], which is more than sufficient to fund my travel and stay in Canada.”
Letter of explanation Canada Visitor Visa
3. Demonstrate Strong Home Country Ties
Use this section to clearly establish your economic, social, and familial connections to your country of residence, which prove your intention to leave Canada at the end of your visit.
Include:
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Ongoing employment or business operations
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Family responsibilities (spouse, children, elderly dependents)
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Ownership of property or financial obligations (e.g., mortgage, car loans)
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Academic enrollment or community involvement
4. Express Purpose of Visit and Travel Itinerary (If Applicable)
Describe your intended visit with specific details, including:
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Dates of travel
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Cities and provinces to be visited
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Places of accommodation (e.g., hotel bookings, invitations from friends/family)
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Planned activities or tourist attractions
“I intend to visit Canada from July 1, 2025, to August 15, 2025, to explore tourist destinations such as Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, and Vancouver. My accommodations have been booked at [Hotel Name] and confirmation receipts are enclosed.”
Importance Of A Letter Of Explanation For Canada Visitor Visa
5. Use Professional Tone and Documentation
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Keep the tone formal, polite, and respectful.
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Maintain clarity and avoid excessive emotional language.
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Ensure that every claim is supported with valid documentation, properly labeled and referenced in the LoE.
Essential Questions a Genuine Letter of Explanation (LoE) Should Address
A well-prepared Letter of Explanation (LoE) plays a pivotal role in strengthening your Canadian visa application—particularly in situations where additional context is required, such as after a refusal, when documentation is limited, or when your application profile includes potential areas of concern. The LoE is your opportunity to directly and proactively respond to any unspoken doubts a visa officer from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may have.
To ensure your LoE is persuasive, structured, and fully aligned with IRCC’s assessment criteria, it should effectively and clearly answer the following critical questions:
1. What is the purpose of your application?
Clearly articulate why you are applying for a Visitor Visa, Study Permit, or Work Permit. This should include:
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The intent of your visit or temporary stay in Canada (e.g., tourism, attending a family event, exploring educational or professional opportunities).
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The duration of your intended stay.
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Specific goals or activities planned in Canada.
Example:
“I am applying for a Temporary Resident Visa to visit my sister and her family in Toronto for four weeks during the summer holidays. My intention is to reconnect with family and explore Canadian culture as a tourist.”
2. What is your current personal and professional situation in your home country?
Demonstrate that you are firmly established in your country of residence by outlining:
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Your employment status (including job title, employer, salary, and duration of employment)
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Family responsibilities or dependents
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Ongoing academic enrollment (if applicable)
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Business ownership or active participation in community organizations
This reinforces your temporary intent and strong home ties, which are critical for visa approval under Section 179(b) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR).
3. Why have you chosen this particular course, program, or purpose in Canada? (Applicable for Study Permits and Work Visas)
If applying for a Study Permit or Work Permit, provide a strong justification for:
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Your choice of program or occupation
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The relevance of this experience to your educational or professional background
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Why Canada, specifically, was selected as the destination (e.g., quality of education, global recognition of credentials, language of instruction)
Example:
“The Diploma in Business Analytics at XYZ College provides industry-aligned training in predictive modeling and data science, which are directly aligned with the growing digital transformation needs in my home country.”
4. What is your financial situation and how do you plan to support your stay in Canada?
Visa officers must be confident that you have the financial resources to fully fund your travel, accommodation, and daily expenses in Canada without relying on unauthorized work or public funds.
Your LoE should:
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Clearly state the source(s) of your funds (personal savings, parental or spousal support, sponsorship, scholarships)
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Include amounts and durations (e.g., “CAD $20,000 available in a personal savings account”)
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Reference attached documents (bank statements, income tax returns, affidavits of support)
5. How does your proposed activity in Canada contribute to your long-term goals?
This is especially relevant for study or work-related applications. Demonstrate that your experience in Canada is part of a logical career path and will provide tangible benefits upon your return.
Example:
“The technical skills I gain through this certification will directly enhance my role as a Systems Analyst in my current company, and support the company’s upcoming expansion into data-driven product offerings.”
6. What are your clear and credible plans to return home?
This is a critical factor in the officer’s decision-making process. You must convincingly demonstrate your non-immigrant intent, supported by:
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Job commitments
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Family responsibilities
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Property ownership or lease agreements
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Academic obligations
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Business operations
Make your future trajectory clear: what you plan to do once you return and how your experience in Canada fits into that plan.
Letter of Explanation Sample for Canada Visitor Visa
[Your Full Name]
[Your Full Address]
[City, Country – Postal Code]
Email: [[email protected]]
Phone: [+Country Code – Phone Number]
Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]
To:
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Subject: Letter of Explanation – Canada Visitor Visa Application
Dear Visa Officer,
I am writing this Letter of Explanation to provide additional context regarding my application for a Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor Visa) to Canada. The primary purpose of my visit is to [clearly state reason – e.g., tourism, visiting family/friends, attending an event], and I wish to clarify key aspects of my application to demonstrate my genuine intentions and compliance with Canadian immigration laws.
1. Purpose of Travel
I intend to travel to Canada from [Proposed Travel Date] to [Return Date] for [brief explanation – e.g., to visit my sister and explore the cultural attractions in Toronto and Montreal]. I have attached a detailed travel itinerary including planned visits to major tourist destinations, accommodations, and a day-by-day agenda.
2. Ties to My Home Country
I am currently employed as a [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], where I have been working since [Start Date]. My employer has granted me approved leave for the duration of my travel. I have enclosed:
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An employment verification letter
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Recent salary slips
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Approved leave letter
Additionally, I reside with my [family/spouse/children] and I own property at [address] in [City]. These factors strongly reinforce my commitment to return after my temporary visit.
Download Cover Letter Sample for Visitor Visa Canada After Refusal PDF
3. Financial Capacity
I have sufficient funds to fully support my trip without requiring any public resources. I am enclosing the following supporting financial documents:
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Bank statements for the past 6 months
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Pay slips
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Fixed deposit receipts
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Property ownership documents (as financial stability proof)
My estimated travel cost is approximately [Amount in CAD], and I currently have access to over [Total Available Funds in CAD equivalent].
4. Travel History
I have previously visited [mention countries with visa history – e.g., the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, or Schengen area], and have always complied with visa conditions and returned on time. This demonstrates my history of lawful travel and strengthens my reliability as a temporary visitor.
Letter of Explanation (LOE) for Canada Visitor Visa Samples
5. Intent to Comply with IRPA Regulations
I fully understand and respect the conditions of a Temporary Resident Visa under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). I assure you that I will leave Canada before the expiry of my authorized stay, and I have no intentions of overstaying or violating any visa conditions.
Conclusion
I respectfully request that my application be reconsidered based on the above facts and supporting documentation. I am committed to complying with all Canadian immigration rules and policies. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Purpose of Travel for Canada Visitor Visa Sample Letter
Top Letter of Explanation (LoE) Writing Services for Various Canadian Visa Categories
We specialize in crafting highly effective, professionally structured Letters of Explanation (LoEs) tailored to each type of Canadian visa. Whether you are applying for a study permit, spouse visa, or work visa, a compelling LoE can significantly enhance your application’s credibility and approval potential. Our expert writers are well-versed in IRCC expectations and ensure every LoE meets the highest standards of immigration documentation.
1. Letter of Explanation for Canada Student Visa SOP
A Letter of Explanation for a Canadian Study Permit is a critical component that supports your Statement of Purpose (SOP). This document should clearly justify your academic choice, demonstrate your career goals, provide a breakdown of your financial preparedness, and affirm your intent to return to your home country after completing your studies.
2. Letter of Explanation for Canada Spouse Visa SOP
For spousal open work permits or family reunification applications, your LoE must validate the authenticity of your relationship and demonstrate genuine intent to comply with visa conditions.
3. Letter of Explanation for Canada Work Visa SOP
When applying for a Canadian work permit, particularly under programs like the LMIA, intra-company transfers, or Global Talent Stream, your LoE must demonstrate strong professional credibility and alignment with labor market needs.
Why Reviewing SOP & LOE Samples Is Crucial Before Writing Your Own
Before drafting your Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Letter of Explanation (LoE) for any Canadian visa application, especially following a previous refusal, it is imperative to review high-quality, approval-driven samples. Understanding the structure, tone, and content expected by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) officers significantly increases your chances of success.
We provide an extensive library of refusal-specific SOP and LoE samples for various Canadian and international visa categories. These are not generic templates—they are real, successful applications crafted by our expert immigration writers and tailored to address complex refusal scenarios.
Each sample represents a critical case that was transformed into a successful outcome through strategic drafting, clear articulation of facts, and compelling documentary support.
Real-World, High-Impact SOP & LoE Samples Available in Our Blog
Our collection includes samples of winning applications across multiple visa categories, such as:
LOE Sample For Canada Visa
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LoE for Canada Study Permit After Refusal – With 5-Year Study Gap
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LoE for Canada Study Permit After Refusal – With 14-Year Study Gap (multiple samples)
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SOP for Canada Visitor Visa After Refusal
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Sample SOP for Canada Dependent Visa After Refusal
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Sample SOP for Canada Work Permit After Refusal
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Sample Appeal Letter for Canada Study Visa Refusal
Other Countries
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LoE Sample for German Study Visa After Refusal
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SOP Sample for Ireland Student Visa After Refusal
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SOP Sample for Ireland Spouse Visa After Refusal
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SOP Sample for Italy Student Visa After Refusal
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SOP Sample for France Student Visa After Refusal
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SOP Sample for Australia Visitor Visa After Refusal
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SOP Sample for New Zealand Student Visa After Refusal
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Cover Letter Sample for Schengen Tourist Visa After Refusal
- Sample Appeal Letter for Irish Student Visa After Refusal
Best Letter of Explanation LOE Writing Services
Engaging a professional Letter of Explanation (LoE) writer for your Canada Visitor Visa application can significantly enhance the clarity, structure, and persuasiveness of your case. A well-crafted LoE does more than just address discrepancies—it presents you as a credible, genuine, and law-abiding applicant with strong ties to your home country and a legitimate purpose for travel.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQS For Letter of Explanation and Visa Refusals
1. What is a Letter of Explanation (LoE) for Canada?
A Letter of Explanation is a personalized statement submitted alongside your application to explain gaps, inconsistencies, or special circumstances that may impact the officer’s decision. Common scenarios include:
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Missing or delayed documentation
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Unusual financial records
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Gaps in travel or education history
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Past visa refusals
For example, in a visitor visa application, it can clarify your reason for travel, prove your intent to return home, and explain how your financial and familial ties reinforce your temporary stay in Canada.
2. Is a Letter of Explanation Mandatory for a Canada Visa Application?
While not always mandatory, an LoE is highly recommended in situations where your application:
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Lacks specific documents
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Contains elements that may raise red flags (e.g., weak financials, unusual travel purpose)
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Includes past refusals or inadmissibility concerns
Proactively submitting an LoE can reduce ambiguity and increase your application’s chances of success.
3. How Do I Write a Professional Letter of Explanation for a Canada Visitor Visa?
When drafting your LoE, adhere to the following structure:
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Introduction: State the visa you are applying for and reference any previous application (if applicable).
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Body:
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Explain the reasons for the current application.
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Address previous refusals (if any) and clarify how your new submission rectifies them.
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Describe your travel plans and purpose of visit.
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Demonstrate ties to your home country (employment, family, property).
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Outline your financial situation with documentary support.
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Conclusion: Reaffirm your intention to respect Canadian immigration laws and return home post-visit.
Ensure your tone is professional, factual, and respectful, and attach relevant supporting documents.
5. Can I Use a Template for My Letter of Explanation to IRCC?
Yes, using a professionally designed template can help organize your letter effectively. However, it must be fully personalized with accurate, truthful details relevant to your situation. Generic templates are discouraged and may lead to refusal if they lack depth or sincerity.
Can You Reapply After a Visitor Visa Refusal?
Yes, you can and should reapply if you believe you can address the reasons for the refusal. A refusal is not permanent, unless it is due to misrepresentation, in which case a 5-year ban may apply. Even in such cases, a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) can offer a remedy under exceptional conditions.
6. How Soon Can I Reapply After a Visitor Visa Refusal?
There is no mandatory waiting period. You may reapply immediately, but it is crucial to:
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Understand the exact refusal reasons
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Submit a stronger and revised application with supporting evidence
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Avoid repeating the same documentation errors
Tip: File an ATIP (Access to Information and Privacy) Request to obtain your GCMS notes, which contain the visa officer’s internal remarks. This insight is invaluable for preparing a successful reapplication.
7. What Additional Documents Should You Submit After a Visitor Visa Refusal?
Besides standard IRCC checklists, include documents across three strategic categories:
1. Purpose of Travel and Temporary Intent
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Detailed travel itinerary (day-by-day agenda)
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Round-trip flight reservation
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Hotel bookings or invitation letter with accommodation proof
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Travel insurance
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Tour confirmations or event details
2. Proof of Strong Ties to Home Country
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Employment verification letter and recent pay stubs
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Property ownership documents or lease agreements
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Business registration and tax filings (if self-employed)
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Letters from spouse, children, or parents
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School enrollment certificates (for dependent children)
3. Proof of Financial Capacity
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Certified Net Worth Certificate from a Chartered Accountant
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Updated bank statements (last 6 months)
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Fixed deposits, bonds, or investment portfolios
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Letter of support from a financial sponsor with proof of relationship and financial capacity
Letter Of Explanation For Canada Visitor Visa