Ensure that every member of your family has valid travel documents. Each adult, child and infant will need a passport or passport card. Travel documents should have at least six months' validity from your planned travel dates.
Gather proof of funds that will be used to support you and your family during your stay in Canada. If questioned by an immigration officer, you basically need to be able to prove that you are not planning to reside in Canada and will not stay in the country longer than six months. Bank statements, pay stubs, proof of employment or receipts from purchasing traveler's checks can be used to prove your intention.
Check that no one in your travel party will be denied entry to Canada due to inadmissability. A person may not be admitted to Canada if he has a trial under way in another country, has a warrant out for his arrest, has been convicted of a crime or has pending charges against him. These regulations include minors.
Contact the nearest Canadian embassy, consulate or high commission to inquire about any recent changes in travel regulations that may affect your family's travel plans.
Determine whether you and your family will need visas to enter Canada. An updated list can be accessed at the Citizenship and Immigration Office of Canada's website here: cic.gc.ca. The exact link is listed in the resources section below.
Download or request an application for a temporary resident visa if required for citizens of your country. You can print out the application packet from the Citizenship and Immigration Office of Canada's website. The download link is listed below in the resources section.
Read the guide carefully to determine your eligibility to visit Canada. If you and your family members are eligible, complete one application packet per family member. Minors under 18 each need their own forms, although a parent or guardian must sign the visa application.
Gather the necessary documents and fees to complete the visa applications. You will need two recent passport-sized photos of each family member, including children and infants, proof funds to support your family during your travels and valid passports issued from your home country.
Contact the nearest Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate to determine if you will need any additional documents or may have to fulfill additional requirements. Whether citizens of your country require a visa or not, you may be required to complete medical testing, provide specific proof of funds, or attend an interview.
