How to Invite Parents for Your Convocation in Canada?

Graduating in Canada is a huge achievement! If you’re an international student, you probably want your parents to come and celebrate this big moment with you.

But the first Question that comes in Mind’s How to Invite Parents for Your Convocation in Canada? Simple answer- You can easily invite your parents to attend your graduation ceremony with a visitor visa. 

But you’ll need to follow a few important steps, like writing an invitation letter and applying for the visa well in advance. Don’t worry, this guide will break down everything you need to know about how to invite your parents for your convocation, from start to finish!

Eligibility Requirements for Parent Visas

To invite your parents, they’ll need a Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). This visa lets your parents enter Canada to attend events like your convocation.

First, your parents must meet certain eligibility criteria. They’ll need a valid passport and proof of ties to their home country, like family or employment commitments, which shows they’ll return after the trip. The good thing? Canada offers both single-entry and multiple-entry visas. Multiple-entry visas allow them to visit more than once during the visa’s validity period.

Invitation Letter: Key Elements

Your parents’ visa application will need an invitation letter from you. Think of this letter as a formal invitation, giving them all the information about your convocation and why they’re coming to Canada. Here’s what to include:

• Your full name, student ID, and details about your study permit.
• Date, time, and location of your graduation ceremony.
• A mention of your relationship to them.
• Information on how long they’ll stay and where they’ll live during the visit.
• If you’re sponsoring their trip, include details about how you’ll financially support them.

This letter helps immigration officials understand why your parents are visiting and ensures their application is complete!

Supporting Documents to Include with the Invitation Letter

In addition to the invitation letter, certain supporting documents are required for the visa application. You’ll need to provide:

• A copy of your study permit and student visa.
• Proof of enrollment and graduation, like the official convocation invite from your school.
• Financial documents, if you’re covering the costs for their stay.
• Travel itinerary, like flight bookings or accommodation plans, if available.

Providing all these documents ensures there are no delays or questions about the purpose of your parents’ visit.

Application Process for a Visitor Visa

The application process for a Visitor Visa is straightforward, but it’s important to apply early. Here’s what your parents need to do:

1. Fill out the visa application form on the IRCC website.
2. Upload the invitation letter and supporting documents online.
3. Pay the visa application fee and submit the application.

Depending on where your parents live, they might also need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photos) at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). It’s best to apply 3-6 months before your convocation, as processing times can vary.

Demonstrating Financial Support

One of the key things immigration officials look for is proof of financial support. Your parents must show they can support themselves during their stay in Canada, or you can provide this proof on their behalf.

The types of financial proof could include bank statements, a sponsorship letter, or details of where they’ll be staying. If you’re funding the trip, be sure to include your own financial details to show you have the means to support them.

Common Challenges and Tips for a Successful Visa Application

Sometimes, things don’t go as smoothly as expected. Your parents might face challenges like not having enough financial proof or not showing strong enough ties to their home country. Here’s how to tackle those:

• Make sure all documents are accurate and complete.
• Apply early to avoid last-minute stress.
• Be clear about your parents’ ties to their home country. Show proof of their jobs, property ownership, or other family commitments that will encourage them to return after the visit.

What Happens After Visa Approval

Once the visa is approved, the fun part begins—planning the trip! Your parents can now book flights and prepare for their visit. They’ll be able to stay in Canada for up to six months, depending on the visa conditions. When they arrive, they’ll go through customs and immigration with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Make sure they have their passports, visa, and invitation letter handy.

Conclusion

Inviting your parents to Canada for your graduation ceremony can be an exciting yet detailed process. But by following the steps outlined—writing a proper invitation letter, gathering the right documents, and applying early—you can make the experience stress-free. Remember to plan ahead, and you’ll be celebrating this special day together in no time!