Canada welcomes millions of visitors annually for tourism, business, and family visits. Depending on your nationality, you may need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter the country.
Types of Canadian Visitor Visas
- Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): A physical visa sticker placed in your passport, required for nationals who are not eTA-eligible. Available as single-entry or multiple-entry.
- Super Visa: A multi-entry visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing stays of up to 5 years per visit.
- Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Canada on the way to another country.
Who Needs a Canada Visa?
Citizens of countries not on Canada's visa-exempt list must obtain a TRV before traveling to Canada. Visa-exempt nationals (from countries such as EU member states, the US, Australia, and Japan) need only an eTA for air travel. You can check your specific requirements using our passport tool.
Required Documents
- Valid passport for the duration of your stay
- Completed application form (IMM 5257)
- Two recent passport-sized photos meeting Canadian specifications
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, employment letter, or sponsor documentation)
- Travel itinerary including flight bookings and accommodation
- Letter of invitation from a host in Canada (if applicable)
- Proof of ties to your home country (property, employment, family)
- Visa processing fee payment
Application Process
- Create an account on the IRCC online portal or obtain paper forms from a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- Complete the application form with accurate personal, travel, and background details.
- Upload or submit all supporting documents.
- Pay the application fee (CAD 100 for a single or multiple-entry visa).
- Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a designated collection point if required.
- Wait for processing and check application status online.
- Receive your passport with the visa or a decision letter.
Fees
The standard visitor visa fee is CAD 100 per person. Family applications (for a principal applicant and accompanying family members) are capped at CAD 500. Biometrics collection costs an additional CAD 85 per person. Super Visa applicants pay the same base fee but must also provide proof of private medical insurance.
Processing Time
Processing times vary by country of application and case complexity. On average, applications are processed within 14 to 60 days. Applying during off-peak seasons and submitting a complete application with all required documents can help reduce wait times.
Duration of Stay
Visitors are typically granted entry for up to 6 months. The border officer at the point of entry determines the exact length of stay. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for an extension before your authorized stay expires.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Canada visa and an eTA?
A visa (TRV) is a physical sticker in your passport required by nationals of visa-required countries. An eTA is an electronic authorization linked to your passport, available to visa-exempt nationals flying to Canada. Both allow temporary visits but have different eligibility criteria.
Can I work in Canada with a visitor visa?
No. A visitor visa does not permit employment. You need a separate work permit or an employer-specific authorization to work in Canada.
How long is a Canadian multiple-entry visa valid?
A multiple-entry visa is typically valid for up to 10 years or until one month before your passport expires, whichever comes first. Each visit is limited to a maximum of 6 months.