canadian travel visa

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Visitor visa (temporary resident visa)

A visitor visa (also called a temporary resident visa) is an official document that we stick in your passport. It shows that you meet the requirements needed to enter Canada.

Processing times

Varies by country

Check processing times

You may need to give biometrics with your application. This processing time doesn’t include the time you need to give biometrics.

Processing times will vary based on:

• the type of application submitted
• if the application is complete
• how quickly we expect to process applications we’ve already received
• how easily we can verify your information
• how long you take to respond to any requests or concerns
• other factors

More people want to immigrate to Canada than we can bring in each year. Applications received after we meet our yearly limit may have to wait longer to be processed.

Learn how processing times are calculated .

Starting from: $CAN 100

Check if your representative is authorized

If you’re using an immigration agent (consultant, lawyer or Quebec notary), they must be licensed to represent you or give advice.

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Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada - not both. Some people may only need their valid passport. Answer a few questions to see what's right for you.

See all entry requirements by country/territory

You can find the country code on your passport. Be careful when you select your country. Some countries have multiple options and codes are quite similar.

Answer yes if you’re a citizen of Canada and another country.

Look on the front cover of your passport for the symbol of a rectangle with a circle in the middle. If you see this symbol, you have an electronic passport.

Answer: You need a visitor visa

For visits of up to 6 months for most purposes. Cost: CAN $100

Get details about visitor visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

For visits of up to 6 months or to transit via a Canadian airport. Cost: CAN $7

Get details about eTA Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid Canadian passport

You need a  valid Canadian passport  to travel to Canada by air (board your flight).

Exception: If you’re an American-Canadian dual citizen with a valid U.S. passport, you don’t need a Canadian passport to fly to Canada. However, you still need to  carry proper identification Opens in a new tab  and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada Opens in a new tab .

Get details about travelling as a dual Canadian citizen Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid passport or travel document to travel to Canada by car, train, bus or boat

If you decide to fly to a Canadian airport instead, you'll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Learn about documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need official proof of status in the U.S.

Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. must present these documents for all methods of travel to Canada:

• a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document ) and
• a valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States)

Answer: You need a transit visa 

To connect between 2 international flights, in less than 48 hours. Cost: Free

Note: If you have more than 48 hours between international flights OR if you decide to visit Canada, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about transit visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You can apply for a parent and grandparent super visa to visit for more than 6 months

• The super visa is for visits of 5 years at a time .
• a letter from your child or grandchild with a promise to financially support you for the duration of your visit in Canada.
• More information on approved insurance providers outside of Canada will be available in the coming months.
• be valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry to Canada
• provide at least $100,000 in emergency coverage.
• You must apply for a super visa from outside Canada.
• Cost: CAN $100

Note : If you don't meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about super visa Opens in a new tab

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA). An eTA allows for visits of up to 6 months.

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with a valid identity document. Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with

• a valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document Opens in a new tab ) and
• official proof of lawful permanent resident status in the U.S., such as a green card

Answer: You need a valid identity document

Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

Learn about the documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for a visitor visa.

When you travel to Canada, bring your

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved, if you received one
• valid passport that has your visitor visa stuck to one of its pages

Learn about studying in Canada Opens in a new tab

Answer: You should already have a valid visitor visa

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first study or work permit.

If you leave and return to Canada,  you must travel with:

• your valid study or work permit
• If you don’t have a valid visa when you check-in for a flight, it may result in travel delays (or a missed flight).
• your valid passport

Exception : If you return directly from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

If your visa has expired or was only valid for a single entry to Canada

You need to  apply for a new visa Opens in a new tab .

• A visa costs CAN$100.
• It’s valid for up to 10 years.

If your study or work permit will expire soon, you must extend it before you can apply for a new visitor visa.

You need a visitor visa to leave and return to Canada.  Apply for your visa before you leave.

You can apply for a visitor visa from inside Canada if you meet all the conditions below:

• you’re already in Canada
• you hold a valid study or work permit
• you want to  leave and return to Canada  in the near future
• your existing  visitor visa Opens in a new tab  is expired or was valid for only one entry

Exception : If you return  directly  from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing times  don’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa Opens in a new tab

You need a  visitor visa  to travel to Canada.

A visitor visa:

• is a sticker we put in your passport
• costs CAN$100

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a study permit

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a study permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa for you

• letter of introduction that says your work permit application is approved, if you received one

Learn about working in Canada Opens in a new tab

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first work permit.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a work permit

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a work permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA)

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for an eTA.

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Answer: You need an eTA to leave and return to Canada

Your study permit lets you study in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

What you need depends on your travel plans.

If you re-enter by a Canadian airport (fly back to Canada)

You must have:

• the passport that’s linked to a valid eTA and
• your valid study permit
• costs CAN $7
• is electronically linked to your passport

If you received your current study permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

If you don’t have an eTA or yours has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA.

Apply for an eTA Opens in a new tab

If you re-enter Canada by car, boat, bus or train

• a valid passport and

Answer: If you fly to a Canadian airport, you need an eTA

• costs CAN$7

Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes. However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you drive or arrive by train, bus or boat

You just need a  valid passport or travel document Opens in a new tab  to get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat.

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for you

• valid passport that you used to apply for your work permit

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Your work permit lets you work in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

• your valid work permit

If you received your current work permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

• your valid work or study permit

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work or study permit

When you travel to Canada, you must bring your:

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

If you’re driving or arriving by train, bus, or boat.

You just need to  bring the right travel documents Opens in a new tab .

If you fly to or transit through a Canadian airport

You just need to travel with your valid U.S. passport if you fly or transit through a Canadian airport.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit
• valid work or study permit

Answer: Your permit is not an eTA or a visa

When you extend your study permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• the passport that’s linked to your valid eTA  and
• a valid visitor and

Apply for visitor visa Opens in a new tab

When you extend your work permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• a valid visitor visa and

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

You can apply for an  eTA  if you travel to Canada  by air only .

• is only valid when flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport

Most applicants get their eTA approval within minutes (via email). However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa  you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If your travel plans change

You need a  visitor visa  (not an eTA) if you decide to  get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat  instead.

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit and
• official proof of U.S. lawful permanent resident status

Answer: You need valid proof of lawful permanent resident status of the U.S. to leave and return to Canada

• valid study permit,
• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit, and

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

• valid passport or travel document and

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit and
• valid work permit
• valid work permit,

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa , you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If you transit through Canada to or from the United States

You  may  be able to  transit through Canada without a visa or eTA if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

You need an official proof of status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., such as one of the following:

• valid permanent resident card (Form I-551)
• foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication [ADIT] stamp)
• foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation (“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year”) on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status)
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card [Green Card])
• valid re-entry permit (Form I-327)
• Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo

Important note:

This tool provides information only. It was created to assist you as you decide what travel document you may need to travel to Canada. This tool may not provide information on all travel documents or your particular situation. If you choose to apply, we will assess your application in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and its related Regulations. Read our complete terms and conditions (opens in a new tab) .

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Visitor Visa checklist: Everything you need to apply and visit Canada

A visitor visa is needed to come to Canada as a tourist, or on a quick trip to visit family, or do business for individuals of many countries.

Anyone who is not a permanent or temporary resident of Canada (those with a work or study permit) will need a visitor visa to enter the country. However, citizens of certain countries do not need a visitor visa and can instead pursue an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). eTAs are a more streamlined form or travel authorisation available to nationals of countries that have visa-free travel agreements with Canada. For answers to common questions on eTAs, click here .

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

What is needed to get a Canadian visitor visa?

1. Complete the needed forms

Depending on whether you are applying inside or outside of Canada, you will need to fill in different forms. Those applying outside of Canada will require:

• Application for temporary resident visa (IMM 5257);
• Family information form (IMM 5707);
• Statutory declaration of common-law union (IMM 5409);
• Use of representative (IMM 5476)—Note this is only required if you have used the services of a representative, or if you are appointing or cancelling use of a representative; and
• Authority to release personal information to a designated individual (IMM 5475)—Note this form is only required if you authorise Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to release information from your case file to someone other than yourself (i.e.: a representative or authorised relative).

2. Collect the needed documentation

In addition to the above forms, applicants for a visitor visa will need to following documentation in support of their request:

• Receipt of fee payment;
• A photocopy of the information page of your passport, including: the passport number, issuance and expiry dates, and your photo, name, issue date, and place of birth;
• Two photos meeting the requirements of the visa application photograph specifications . On the back of these two photos applicants must write their name and date of birth. If applicants are required to provide biometric fingerprints and photo they do not have to attach these photos;
• Proof of financial support, proving that you can support yourself and any family member accompanying you while you are in Canada;
• Photocopy of your marriage license or certificate (if relevant);
• Letter explaining the purpose of your travel;
• Photocopy of your current immigration status (if your country of residence differs from the country of citizenship listed on your passport, you must provide proof of legal status in your country of residence);
• Minors travelling alone or with one parent must provide custody documents or a letter of authorisation from the other non-accompanying parent of a letter of authorisation signed by both parent or legal guardians; and
• Any other additional documents required by the responsible visa office in your region.

Note that application forms completed online must be completed and validated with the generation of a barcode. If completed on a computer, these barcodes will be automatically attached to the immigration forms, otherwise they must be printed and placed at the top of an application if applying by paper.

How to pay required fees and prove fee payment to IRCC

There are two kinds of fees that applicants for a visitor visa may need to pay. These are application processing fees, and biometric fees. Those who do not need to provide biometrics may be exempt from the second set of fees—find out if you need to give biometrics here .

Application processing fees for visitor visas are $100 CAD per person, and $500 CAD for a family (five or more people).

Biometrics fees on the other hand are $85 CAD per person, and $170 per family (two or more people).

These fees may be subject to change and cannot be refunded regardless of the decision reached on your application. In addition, the only accepted method to pay these fees is online.

After following the given instructions and completing the process, you must wait until an official IRCC receipt is issued with a barcode. Applicants are advised to save this file and attach a copy of it to their application.

How to provide proof of financial support

There are several documents that you can use to prove that you can support yourself and any dependents that accompany you while you are visiting Canada.

Some examples include cash, certified cheque, bank draft, or money order in a large enough amount to cover all reasonable expenses incurred during your stay in Canada.

In addition, written or verbal statements (which can be verified) can also be used, provided that they satisfy an officer that sufficient financial support from friends and/or family has been arranged and can cover reasonable incurable expenses during your stay.

Other documents include bank statements, a letter of employment or previous tax filing information,

How to write a “purpose of travel” letter

All foreign nationals entering Canada must be able to satisfy an officer at their time of entry that they have legitimate reasons to enter and reside in Canada. In the context of a visitor visa, this can often also include proving that you (the foreign national) will leave Canada once the period of your authorised stay expires.

In some cases, visitor visa applicants may also need a letter of invitation from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident .

Applying with family members

Visitor visa applicants wishing to bring their family with them on their trip to Canada must complete an application form for each family member. All applications may be submitted together online or at the VAC where you will send your application on paper. A single receipt may also be given for all included applications.

Lastly all family members and dependents must meet all requirements for temporary residence in Canada.

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Temporary Resident Visas (Visitor Visas) For Canada

Canada welcomes millions of temporary residents each year. except for canadian citizens and permanent residents, all other individuals require permission to enter canada as a visitor. this canadavisa page provides an overview of whether you need a temporary resident visa to enter canada..

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Countries with conditional eligibility.

• Country Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Unless they are citizens of a visa-exempt country , individuals who wish to enter Canada for a temporary purpose, such as tourists, temporary foreign workers (individuals with work permits ) and international students (individuals on study permits ) must apply for and be granted a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) .

• To find out if you need a TRV before departure to Canada, click here .

Citizens of visa-exempt countries intending to travel to Canada by air are expected to have applied for an obtained an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)  before their departure to Canada. Exceptions to this include citizens of the United States, who do not require a TRV or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), and Green Card holders in the United States, who need an eTA to come to Canada, regardless of their nationality. Unless otherwise exempt from the requirement to obtain a TRV or an eTA, individuals who require a TRV do not require an eTA, and vice versa.

The TRV is a document issued by a Canadian Immigration Visa Office outside Canada, showing that the holder has satisfied the requirements for admission to Canada as a visitor. TRVs may be for single entry or multiple entry. As a general rule, tourists are admitted for a period of six months. Temporary foreign workers and international students are admitted for varying periods of time, as determined on a case-by-case basis. Extensions may be applied for from within Canada.

It is important to note that possession of a valid TRV does not necessarily mean that the Officer at the Canadian Port of Entry will admit the visitor into Canada. At the Port of Entry, all visitors must demonstrate that the purpose of their visit to Canada is of a temporary nature. Officers at the Port of Entry will deny admission to all persons who, in their opinion, do not intend to leave Canada at the expiry of their visitor status.

Items to note:

• Certain applicants may need to undergo a medical examination. This pertains to some individuals who intend to remain in Canada and have recently visited certain countries, as well as persons who intend to work in certain occupations in Canada. To learn more, click here .
• Criminality and medical issues  may prevent a visitor from entering Canada.
• Visitors to Canada must be able to prove their ability to support themselves during their intended temporary stay in Canada.
• Citizens of certain countries may need to provide biometric information. To learn which countries this applies to, click here .

Citizens of some countries may be eligible for an eTA if they meet all three of the following conditions. If not they will have to pursue a TRV to travel to Canada. 

To be eligible for an eTA these travellers must:

• The U.S. nonimmigrant visa must be valid on the day that an individual applies for their eTA, but doesn’t need to be valid when they travel to Canada.
• be coming to Canada for a short visit, business or tourist activity (normally for stays of up to 6 months); and
• arriving to Canada by air, or transiting through a Canadian airport using a valid passport from one of the eligible visa-required countries. 

These conditional eligibility rules for an eTA apply to citizens of the following (visa-required) countries:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

Country Checklist: Temporary Resident Visas

TRVs are required for citizens of certain countries. The chart below outlines which individuals require a TRV and which individuals need an eTA in order to enter Canada.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

1. What is a Temporary Resident Visa?

Canadian citizens and Canadian permanent residents have the right to enter Canada freely. Other visitors to Canada, including tourists , students , and workers , may need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to enter Canada.

2. Does everyone planning to visit Canada require a Temporary Resident Visa?

No. You do not need a Temporary Resident Visa to visit Canada if you are from a visa-exempt country. In this case, a visa-exempt person flying to Canada would need to apply for and obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding his or her flight. If traveling to Canada over land, a visa-exempt person does not need either a TRV or an eTA.

Citizens from all other countries must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa before entering Canada, unless otherwise exempt.

Use our Visiting Canada Tool to determine what you need to do before traveling to Canada.

3. Do I need a Study Permit if I plan to study in Canada?

If your studies will last less than six months in Canada, then no Study Permit is required. Any studies beyond six months require a Study Permit, in addition to a Temporary Resident Visa, if you are not from a visa-exempt country .

4. How do I qualify for a Work Permit to work in Canada?

There are many ways to qualify for a Work Permit . In some situations, the Canadian employer must demonstrate that they were unable to find Canadian citizens or Canadian permanent residents to fill the position.

5. What can I do if my application for a TRV is refused?

If your TRV application is refused, there is no formal appeal process. In addition, you may only reapply if your situation has changed substantially or you have considerable new information to submit.

6. What can I do to help a friend or family member obtain a TRV to visit Canada?

If your friend or family member requires a TRV to visit Canada, their initial application must be made outside the country, at the visa office responsible for the applicant's country or region. You may provide them with a Letter of Invitation, explaining how you will help the person to visit Canada. For example, you may state that you will pay for plane tickets or accommodation. While a Letter of Invitation may help a TRV application, it does not guarantee that the person will receive a visa.

7. What documents are required for the application?

In addition to the application forms and required fees, you will need to submit photos, proof of financial support, a photocopy of your return ticket or travel itinerary (if applicable), and any other documents required by the visa office responsible for your country or region.

8. I am a US resident with a Green Card. Do I need to apply for a TRV?

No. You may simply present your passport and your valid Green Card at the Canadian border if traveling over land. If you are flying into Canada, you would need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

9. Can I fill out one application for my family if we are traveling together?

No, each family member must complete and sign the required forms. Parents or guardians may help their children fill out the forms, and will need to sign for any children under the age of 18. All the applications can be submitted in one envelope, with one payment receipt for the total fee for all applications.

10. How long can I stay in Canada on my TRV?

If there is no stamp, handwritten date or document in your passport indicating an expiry date, your status as a temporary resident will expire six months from the day you arrive in Canada.

11. How can I extend my stay?

You may apply online or using a paper application to extend your status as a temporary resident. You should submit your application for an extended stay in Canada at least 30 days before your status expires. If your temporary resident status expires after you submit your application for an extension but before you receive a decision on the application, you may remain in Canada under maintained status . This status lasts until a decision is made on your new application.

12. Can I study in Canada on my TRV?

In general, international students require a study permit to pursue an educational program in Canada. However, there are several exceptions to this rule. If your program in Canada is less than six months in duration you do not require a study permit, although it may be a good idea to apply for one in case you decide to continue your studies. As well, you may study in Canada without a study permit if you are a family member or staff member of a foreign representative accredited by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. You should contact your embassy in Canada for more information. In addition, if you are a member of a foreign armed force under the Visiting Forces Act, you will not be required to obtain a study permit. If your family members wish to study in Canada, they must meet the requirements. Finally, if you are in Canada on a work permit or student visa, your minor children can study at the secondary or elementary level. They must first enter Canada on a visitor visa.

13. Can I work in Canada on my TRV?

As a general rule, a foreign national must obtain a Work Permit in order to work in Canada, although there are some exceptions.

14. Do I need a TRV to come to Canada on business?

If you are from a country that requires a visa to visit Canada, you will need to apply for a TRV just like any other visitor to Canada. The application is the same as for a visitor visa. For more information, please visit our page on Business Visitors .

Contact the Cohen Immigration Law Firm for Assistance

Do you need professional assistance getting Canadian TRV? The Cohen Immigration Law Firm can help. We offer over 45 years of Canadian immigration expertise.

Please complete our short form to submit your question directly to our law firm. One of our lawyers will contact you to schedule a free telephone consultation.

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Canadianvisa.org

We Make Immigration Simple

2021-12-05T08:44:33

2023-06-29T03:01:00

If you'd like to travel to Canada, you'll need a Canada Visitor Visa, or Canadian Tourist Visa. Find out more about your visa options and the visa requirements.

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Updated: June 29th, 2023

Whether you're planning to move to Canada and want to see what it's like, visit your Canadian family or are purely interested in holidaying in the Great White North, you will likely need a Canadian visitor visa or a tourist visa to enter Canada. There are two types of tourist visas to Canada - Single entry and multiple entry visitor visas. Each of these has its own Canada tourist visa requirements.

These requirements are based on the intention of your stay, your country of origin, the length of your planned visit and links to your home country, amongst many others. To help figure out what you need to do to ensure you get your tourist visa, we've created a Canada visitor visa checklist. This way, you can ensure you don't leave anything out of your visa application. However, first, you must find out if you need a visa or just an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) .

Do I Need a Canada Visitor Visa (Also Known as Canada Tourist Visa) Tourist Visa to Canada?

Canada has a list of countries that are considered visa-exempt. You do not need a visitor visa if you are from one of the following countries. Instead, you will need an Electronic eTA Canada. The visa-exempt countries are as follows:

Learn more about eTA Canada .

What Are the Two Types of Canada Visitor Visa?

Each Canadian tourist visa has its own expressed purpose and uses.

Multiple-entry Visa

This visa will let you enter Canada for multiple periods of up to 6 months over ten years or when your passport next expires. But, once your passport expires, you can apply for a new Canada visitor visa.

Single-entry Visa

This lets you travel to Canada only one time, but this is usually under specific circumstances such as:

• The purpose of your entry to Canada is limited to an official visit
• You're eligible for a fee exemption
• You're taking part in a special Canadian event
• It's in keeping with the approved country procedures and guidelines

Once you leave Canada, you must apply for another visa to return.

Now that you know the types of visas, let's dive into what exactly makes a visitor visa applicant eligible.

Updated Canadian Travel Requirements

While the visa types differ, the basic requirements of each visa remain essentially the same. Therefore, before you begin your application process, you must fulfill all necessary criteria via this Canada visitor visa checklist. This is as follows. You must:

• Be in good health
• Have a valid travel document, such as a passport
• Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• In particular, if you've been convicted of any criminal activity, human rights violations or organized crime, you will likely be rejected for any Canadian visa.
• Have clear ties to your home country
• Prove you will leave Canada once you're completed your visit
• Have enough funds to cover your expenses. This amount depends on your accommodation plans and whether or not you will need to pay for your accommodation (like with a hotel or Airbnb)

If you're unsure how to fulfil all of the Canadian visitor visa requirements or how to get your required documents, click the button below to talk to a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). RCICs can give you a full eligibility assessment and ensure you take every step of your application process correctly.

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants provide expert knowledge concerning all the necessary documents and requirements for a Canada Visitor Visa, as well as programs beyond temporary visas and pave the way to Canadian permanent residency.

What Documents Are Required For a Canada Visitor Visa?

Before you begin your visitor visa application process, you will need the following documentation:

• Travel history (Optional)
• Basic Itinerary (Optional)
• Bank Statement (Optional)
• Travel document (Optional)
• Use of a representative form (IMM 5476) if you've used a representative
• Authority to release personal information to a designated individual form  - IMM 5475 (Optional)
• Family information form(IMM 5645)
• This is particularly if you have children under 18

Documents required for minors:

Please note that minor children (children under 18 years old) will be required to have the same document as adult travellers. This is to ensure the safety of minors, and those who do not have the necessary documents will be scrutinized closely.

Minor's Travelling Alone

Children who are travelling to Canada alone will need the following documents:

• Own Passport
• Copy of birth certificate
• Letter of authorization signed by both parents/legal guardians with contact information (in English or French if possible)

Minor's Travelling With One Parent or Guardian

Children who are traveling to Canada with one parent or legal guardian will require the following documents:

• Child's passport
• Letter of authorization signed by the parent not accompanying the child with contact details (in English or French if possible)

Parents that are Separated, Divorced, or Have Shared Custody

• Copies of legal custody documents
• Letter of authorization from the other parent/guardian

Parents that are Separated or Divorced and One Parent Has Sole Custody

• Letter of authorization signed by that parent
• Custody decree

One of the Parents is Deceased

• Copy of death certificate

Adoptive Parents or Legal Guardian

• Copy of guardianship/adoption papers

Minor Travelling to Canada With Anyone Other Than Parents or Legal Guardian

• Written consent from parents or guardians to supervise the child (include contact details of parents/guardians)
• Copy of parents' or legal guardian's signed passports or national identity cards

How do I Apply For Visitor Visa Canada?

Once you've made sure you fulfill all criteria, collected all of the required documents and ensured you have every visa application form, you can apply for visitor visa Canada online via the government website. You do this in 3 simple steps:

Step 1: Create an Account

You create an account on the government's official website . In doing this, you will submit certain details, such as your reason for going to Canada, which will help the government of Canada determine which application process you must undertake.

Step 2: Upload Your Documents

At this point, you upload all documents specified above to prove the details you stated when you created your account.

Step 3: Pay the Application Processing Fee

Like with every visa, the visitor visa has certain processing costs. They are as follows:

You may submit your application for processing after completing these three steps. Once your application is uploaded, you may be asked to present your biometrics. Here's a handy guide for a full breakdown of what biometrics for Canada visas are and how to submit them.

After You Apply

If your application is successful, you will receive your tourist visa once your application is processed. The Canada visitor visa processing time varies from country to country and whether or not you're applying from inside or outside of Canada. For example, the Canada visitor visa processing time can be approximately four months for a person applying from India.

Why Travel to Canada

The Great White North is a top travel destination with many unique offerings to offer visitors. Here are some of the reasons you should consider a visit.

Canada is a destination of great diversity. It is a melting pot where all cultures are celebrated, making it ideal for immigrants and tourists. But that's not where the diversity ends. As the world's second-largest country it has a vast range of climates, landscapes, cities and rural settings.

Charming in Every Season

While many Canadians may need to escape their icy winters, the country is considered a winter wonderland by winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking the novelty of snow-capped just about everything.

But it's not the winter season that is magical. There's the charm of the fall's rust-coloured leaf aesthetic, the beautiful blooming of tulips and cherry blossoms in the spring and the impressive variety of summer activities during the summer months. It has to be said, though, there is no shortage of splendour in the Great White North, regardless of the season you choose to wander through it.

The Whole Family Will Love it!

With abundant magnificent outdoor settings , Canada is one of the most family-friendly countries to visit. You and your loved ones can enjoy the snow together, explore the great lakes, hike in the Canadian Rockies, or explore the country's amazing national parks and museums. There is no shortage of fun things to do as a family.

Endless Opportunities for Adventure

Canada is the adventurer's dream destination. For the thrill-seekers, there's skiing, snowboarding and some of the most intense hiking and climbing trails to conquer, golfing, fishing, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing and fishing.

Entertainment

There's no shortage of events and festivals in the land of the maple leaf. So no matter the season, you'll find something to attend. Look out for:

• The Celtic Colours International Festival, Nova Scotia
• The Celebration of Light, Vancouver
• The Calgary Stampede
• The Edmonton Folk Music Festival
• The Toronto International Film Festival
• The Canadian Tulip Festival, Ottawa
• The Quebec Winter Carnival, Quebec City

Travel to Canada Made Simple

While a tourist visa isn't the most complex visa to get for Canada, you still need to submit the correct documents timely, ensure that the evidence of your connection to your home country is submitted, and ensure you fulfill all of the Canada Visitor visa requirements. Despite how extensive the Canada visitor visa checklist is, submitting only those documents on the IRCC checklist isn't enough to make your case that you will return to your home country after your visit. To ensure you have everything you need for your trip to Canada, click the button below to speak to an RCIC and ensure everything happens smoothly.

Is Canada's Visitor Visa Currently Open?

The Canada Visitor Visa has been open for all vaccinated tourists since September 7, 2021. However, On October 1, 2022, all COVID-19 border requirements, including vaccination, use of ArriveCAN, testing and quarantine or isolation requirements, ended for all travellers entering the country.

How Can I Extend My Stay in Canada After My Visitor Visa Expires?

If you want to prolong your stay in Canada after six months, you can apply for a visitor record, giving you a new expiry date. You must apply at least 30 days before your Canadian visitor visa expires. You apply online on the Canadian government website.

What Must do if I Have COVID-19 Symptoms

You should not travel to Canada, should you have COVID-19 symptoms. If COVID-19 symptoms appear en route to Canada or as you arrive:

• You must inform flight attendants, cruise staff or a border official as soon as you arrive
• You'll possibly be referred to a Quarantine Officer to have your health assessed
• Do not use public transport
• Take a   at what COVID-19 requirements for when you test positive are for the province your province or territory you are entering.

Is a Visitor or Tourist Visa the Same as a Temporary Resident Visa?

Yes. A temporary resident visa is another name for a visitor or tourist visa. However, this is different from a Working Holiday Visa, which is predicated on you working in Canada. If this sounds like something you would be into, consider the Canadian Working Holiday visa.

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