Notarized Invitation Letter for a Canadian Visitor Visa

If you are sponsoring a foreign national's application for a Canadian visitor visa (formally called a Temporary Resident Visa), Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may require a notarized invitation letter as part of the application package. This article explains when one is needed and what it must contain.

When Is a Notarized Invitation Letter Required?

Not every visitor visa application requires a notarized invitation letter. IRCC requires one when the applicant is being invited by a specific person in Canada — typically a family member — and the visa officer wants to verify that the invitation is genuine and that the sponsor has the means to support the visit.

A notarized letter carries more evidentiary weight than an unnotarized one: the Notary's signature and seal confirm that you appeared in person, verified your identity, and signed the document voluntarily. This can be an important factor in applications from countries with higher visa refusal rates.

What the Letter Should Include

• Your full legal name, Canadian address, and immigration status (citizen, permanent resident, or other)
• Your relationship to the applicant
• The applicant's full name and date of birth
• The purpose and expected duration of the visit
• A statement that you will be responsible for the visitor's expenses during their stay (if applicable)
• Confirmation that the visitor will return to their home country

Supporting Documents

A notarized invitation letter is generally more persuasive when accompanied by supporting documents confirming your status and financial means — for example, a copy of your Canadian passport or PR card, and recent bank statements or a letter from your employer.

Getting Your Letter Notarized

Bring your typed invitation letter and government-issued photo ID to your appointment. The Notary will verify your identity, witness your signature, and apply their seal and signature to the document. The appointment takes approximately 15 minutes.