+1 604 503 1313
info@sekhonnotary.ca

What is a letter of Invitation? Why should you have it professionally prepared and notarized?

Per the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, citizens from particular countries applying for a temporary resident must provide a letter of invitation as their host in Canada. Once this letter has been made, it must be sent to the party you are trying to invite to Canada. From there, they must send the letter to the Canadian Embassy or the consulate outside Canada when they apply for a temporary resident visa. 

Having it professionally prepared and notarized ensures that parties involved act in good faith, are truthful regarding the letter’s contents, and keep the promises made. This, therefore, aids in combating fraud. Additionally, we will be able to ensure that all the necessary information is provided and presented in a manner that can better ensure visa approval. 

Information to be included regarding the invitee include:

  • Full name
  • Date of birth (DOB)
  • Address and telephone number
  • The relationship with said person
  • The purpose of the visit
  • The duration of the visit
  • The living situation of the invitee during the visit 
  • Financial plan for the invitee; how will they pay for things?
  • When the invitee will be leaving 

Information to be included regarding the inviter include:

  • Full name
  • DOB
  • Address and telephone number in Canada
  • Profession
  • Citizenship status: Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident 
    • Photocopy of a document proving this, such as 
      • Canadian birth certificate 
      • Canadian Citizenship card 
      • Permanent Resident card 
  • Family details 🡪 both the following two points are required for the parent and grandparent super visa
    • Names and DOB of spouse and dependents 
    • The total number of people living in your home, including those you have sponsored whose sponsorship is currently valid

However, even with a properly executed letter of invitation, there is no guarantee that a visa will be issued. Visa officers will assess you to decide whether the terms of Canada’s immigration laws have been met. Additionally, you are not legally responsible for the visitor once they arrive in Canada.