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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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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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Eligible travellers from 13 more countries now qualify  for visa-free travel to Canada

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

News release

Canada is a destination of choice for people looking to visit, do business or reunite with family and friends. That’s why we are committed to improving our immigration programs and services by making them more efficient and equitable for people around the world.

June 6, 2023, 11:30 a.m. —Winnipeg— Canada is a destination of choice for people looking to visit, do business or reunite with family and friends. That’s why we are committed to improving our immigration programs and services by making them more efficient and equitable for people around the world.

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the addition of 13 countries to the electronic travel authorization (eTA) program. Travellers from these countries who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA instead of a visa when travelling to Canada by air. Effective today, eligible travellers from these countries can benefit from the program:

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

Introducing visa-free air travel will make it faster, easier, and more affordable for thousands of travellers to visit Canada for up to six months for either business or leisure. It will also help grow Canada’s economy by facilitating more travel, tourism and international business, and by strengthening Canada’s relationships with these countries while keeping Canadians safe.

This decision will also divert thousands of applications from Canada’s visa caseload, allowing us to process visa applications more efficiently, which will benefit all visa applicants.

Individuals who already have a valid visa can continue to use it to travel to Canada. Those who are not eligible for an eTA, or who are travelling to Canada by means other than air (for example, by car, bus, train and boat—including by cruise ship), will still need a visitor visa . Travellers can visit Canada.ca/eTA to find out whether they’re eligible for an eTA and how to apply for one.

“This exciting development means that more individuals from around the world can now embark on unforgettable adventures, explore our diverse landscapes, reunite with family and friends, and immerse themselves in our vibrant culture without the hurdle of visa requirements. This expansion not only enhances convenience for travellers, it will also increase travel, tourism and economic benefits, as well as strengthen global bonds with these 13 countries.” – The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

“Canada is a destination of choice for so many around the world. We’re making it easier for more people to visit Canada, whether they’re coming to do business, sightsee or reunite with family and friends. Expanding the eTA program to include countries like the Philippines is also an important part of our Indo-Pacific Strategy, as we look to further engage in the region, build on people-to-people ties and make travel to Canada easier, faster and safer for everyone.” – The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs

"Canada has what the world wants, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to our shores. Expanding the eTA for Canada is a major step toward helping our tourism industry soar to new heights. By streamlining the entry process for international travellers, we send a strong message that Canada is open for business, adventures and unforgettable experiences. This strategic move supports our visitor economy by injecting vitality into our local communities and creating countless job opportunities. It is not just about attracting visitors; it is about showcasing the breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and warm hospitality that define Canada. Let us seize this opportunity to place our nation firmly on the global tourism map, all while building an economy that works for everyone." – The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance

"Air Canada is pleased with the announcement today to implement a more user-friendly process to obtain authorization to travel to Canada and connect via Air Canada’s global hubs. The global market for travel and tourism is competitive, and finding easier ways for travellers to obtain their travel authorizations is beneficial not only to Air Canada, but also the entire travel and tourism industry in Canada." – Lisa Pierce, Vice President, Global Sales and Air Canada Vacations

“Expanding visa-free air travel presents immediate opportunities for YVR to connect with more countries around the world, including key destinations in Latin America and Asia. That enhanced access to global markets will provide incredible benefits for our community and support local economic growth. This decisive policy action is a step in the right direction for YVR, British Columbia and Canada. It continues to provide opportunities for people to enjoy our world-class tourism experiences or reunite with loved ones, creates new jobs, and will deliver more direct revenue for our local economy.” – Tamara Vrooman, President & CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority

Quick facts

The eTA is a digital travel document that most visa-exempt travellers need in order to travel to or transit through Canada by air.

The eTA application is used by Canadian officials to conduct light-touch, pre-travel screening of air travellers. It costs CAN$7 to apply, and most applications are automatically approved within minutes.

To apply for an eTA, travellers need only a valid passport, a credit card, an email address and access to the Internet.

Almost 20.9 million eTAs have been issued since the eTA program was introduced on August 1, 2015.

IRCC first expanded its eTA program in April 2017 to include eligible Brazilians, Bulgarians and Romanians. Canada lifted the visa requirement for all citizens of Bulgaria and Romania later that year. Today, eligible Brazilian nationals continue to enjoy visa-free air travel to Canada.

Within the next year, Canada expects to receive 200,000 (or 20%) more visitors from these 13 countries. Within a decade, increased travel from these countries is expected to bring almost $160 million in additional tourism revenue.

Associated links

• Find out about Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Citizens from some visa-required countries

Contacts for media only:

Bahoz Dara Aziz   Press Secretary Minister’s Office Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada [email protected]

Media Relations Communications Branch Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada 613-952-1650 [email protected]

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Canada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Canada.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Canada, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from Canada, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through Canada, most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization ( eTA ) – not both.

Check if you need a visa or an eTA online .

You do not need a visa for short visits (normally up to 6 months). You may need an eTA instead.

You do not need an eTA , if you are:

• arriving by land and sea – you must have acceptable travel documents and ID
• a British-Canadian dual national – you must have a valid Canadian passport

See Canada’s entry requirements for full details of eTA and visa requirements.

Contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested.

Checks at border control

Canadian border officials may ask you to show a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends.

Visas for permanent residence, study or work

See information on visas for permanent residence, study or work in Canada .  

Transiting through Canada

If you are travelling through Canada (transiting) by air, you must have an eTA or a transit visa.     

If you have questions, contact:

• your airline
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• your nearest Canadian high commission, embassy or consulate

Find out more about transiting Canada .

Visa and eTA scams

Some unauthorised websites charge for submitting visa applications. These websites are not associated with the Canadian government.

You can check your eTA status online with the Canadian government . If it has been 72 hours since you applied, and you have not received confirmation of your application, complete an enquiry form .   

Travelling with children

If a child travels alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they should carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parents or guardians. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to see if there are any concerns about child abduction.

For more information, check with the Canadian High Commission in the UK or the Canada Border Services Agency .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Canada guide . 

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be taken into and out of Canada . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

The Canadian authorities will confiscate banned food products and you could get a fine. For more information, see importing food, plants or animals to Canada .

If you visit a farm or have contact with wild animals before entering Canada, and plan to visit a farm during your stay, you must declare this on your Customs Declaration Card. For more information, see biosecurity at the Canadian border .

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Canada tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

Updated: September 8, 2023

Canada tourist visa requirements are easy to understand. The entire visa application process is online. Canada typically issues long-term multiple-entry visas valid for 5 to 10 years.

Even if you are not planning on traveling to Canada right away, getting a Canadian tourist visa can be useful for two reasons.

• Canada visitor visas are typically long-term visas (5 to 10 years). Apply for one now and you will have it for the next 10 years.
• Quite a few countries including Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama EXEMPT visa for those with a Canadian multiple entry visa.

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CANADA TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Minimum passport validity to enter Canada as a tourist

Passport must be valid for the entire stay in Canada

Example: If you will be entering Canada on Feb 10 and will be leaving Canada on Feb 25, your passport must be valid till Feb 25.

Visa EXEMPT nationalities (eTA not required)

• United States

Visa EXEMPT nationalities (eTA required)

• Must apply for Canada eTA prior to arrival in Canada by air
• Canada eTA is not required if traveling by land from the US
• Antigua and Barbuda
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Czech Republic
• Falkland Islands
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

Visa REQUIRED nationalities

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Congo (Democratic Republic of)
• Congo (Republic of)
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea 
• Guinea-Bissau
• Ivory Coast
• Marshall Islands
• North Korea
• Philippines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• United Arab Emirates

Visa EXEMPT with US Green card

• Must hold a valid US Green card
• Canada eTA is NOT REQUIRED if traveling by land from the US
• All nationalities

Visa EXEMPT with US visa or expired Canada tourist visa

• Must hold a valid used/unused multiple-entry US non-immigrant visa (B1, B2, B1/B2, F1, J1, H1, L1) (OR) an expired Canadian visitor visa (TRV) held in the past 10 years
• Must apply for Canada eTA prior to arrival in Canada
• Applicable to air travel only

CANADA eTA (ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION)

Canada eTA is a travel authorization that needs to be obtained online prior to traveling to Canada. 

Canada eTA is MANDATORY for all visa EXEMPT nationalities.

Who needs Canada eTA?

Canada eTA is REQUIRED for all visa EXEMPT nationalities entering Canada for tourism or transit. If you are visa EXEMPT, you DO NOT NEED a visa but you REQUIRE an eTA to enter Canada.

Who does not need an eTA?

The following does not need an eTA to enter Canada.

• Canadian dual citizens
• Canadian permanent residents
• United States passport holders
• Passport holders with a valid Canadian visa (tourist, student, work, etc)

Is Canada eTA a visa?

No. Canada eTA is NOT a visa. It’s just an online authorization that you would need to obtain prior to your trip to Canada. 

Can you use ESTA to enter Canada?

You CANNOT use ESTA (United States Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to enter Canada. ESTA is a travel authorization to enter the US. It cannot be used for Canada. Even if you hold a valid ESTA, you would still need to apply for eTA to travel to Canada.

Canada eTA validity

Canada eTA is valid for 5 years or until the expiry of your current passport, whichever is earlier. eTA is also linked to a specific passport, so if you get a new passport for any reason, you must apply for a new eTA. 

How long can you stay in Canada with an eTA?

You can stay up to 6 months in Canada with an eTA. 

How many times can you enter Canada with an eTA?

Canada eTA is multiple-entry and valid for 5 years. Once you obtain your eTA, you can travel to Canada as many times as you want within that 5 years period.

Canada eTA application process

You can apply for Canada eTA online at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. 

NOTE Flight tickets and hotel bookings are not required for eTA. Apply for eTA before you purchase your flight tickets or book any hotels.

Documents required for Canada eTA

• Credit/debit card

Canada eTA fee

Canada eTA fee is $7 CAD. The fee must be paid using a credit or debit card in CAD only. Since the fee is in CAD, your bank may charge a foreign transaction fee. 

Canada eTA processing time

Canada eTA processing takes only a few minutes. In rare cases, it can take several days if additional documentation or an interview is required. IRCC will contact you with instructions in such cases. 

Canada eTA status

You can check your Canada eTA status on eTA Status Tool provided by IRCC. After your eTA is approved, you can use this tool to check the validity and print a copy if needed.

If it has been over 72 hours since you applied and there has been no status update, you can contact customer service using the IRCC Webform .

Documents to carry when entering Canada on an eTA

• Original passport
• Return or onward flight ticket

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival in Canada. 

Proof of onward ticket can be printed or soft-copy on your phone. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, get proof of an onward ticket from OnwardTicket .

NOTE A copy of your approved eTA is not required to carry. Canadian immigration officers and airline staff will have access to the Canada eTA system and they can verify your eTA using your passport number.

CANADA TOURIST VISA (TRV)

A Canada tourist visa or visitor visa is formally known as Canada Temporary Resident Visa (Canada TRV). You need a Canada TRV if you are from a visa REQUIRED nationality. 

Canada tourist visas can be applied either ONLINE or by mailing a PAPER application to the consulate. 

I highly recommend applying ONLINE. This guide focuses on the online application only. There are several advantages to applying online. It’s fast. It ensures everything is complete and correct. You only need to send your passport after your visa is approved. 

Validity of Canada tourist visa

Canada tourist visas are usually issued for 10 years or until the expiration of your current passport. 

• Your passport expiry: Nov 14, 2029
• Applied for your Canada visa online: Feb 01, 2020
• Given your biometrics: Feb 04, 2020
• Received a notification that your visa is approved: Mar 01, 2020
• Submitted your passport to your nearest VAC: Mar 07, 2020
• Picked up your passport with visa sticker: Mar 20, 2020

Your visa will be valid from March 01, 2020, to Nov 14, 2029.

Date of issue: Mar 01, 2020

Date of expiry: Nov 14, 2029

NOTE If your passport is expiring soon, renew your passport first. And then apply for your Canada tourist visa, that way you can get the tourist visa for 10 years. 

When to apply for Canada tourist visa

You can apply for Canada tourist visa up to 3 months in advance.

Example: If you plan to visit the UK on April 15, you can apply for your Canada visa on or after January 16.

IMPORTANT Canada visa process can take up to 30 calendar days or even longer in some cases. I strongly recommend applying for your Canada visa at least 2 months in advance.

How long can you stay in Canada on a tourist visa

You can stay in Canada for up to 6 months or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Occasionally, the immigration officers at the airport write an exit date on your entry stamp. This exit date can be less than 6 months. You must exit Canada within the exit date. 

How many times can you enter Canada on a tourist visa?

Canada tourist visas are usually multiple-entry, valid for 10 years or until your passport expires. You can travel to Canada as many times as you like within the expiry of your tourist visa. 

Canada tourist visa application process

The first step in Canada visitor visa application is to create a Government of Canada (GC) login called GCKey .

Once you have created your GCKey and signed in, you can start your visitor visa application. You can save an incomplete application and come back later to complete it.

Here are the steps to complete Canada tourist visa application.

• Create a GCKey and sign in to the CIC website
• Select visitor visa
• Fill in the mandatory details and save
• Download all Canada visa application forms
• Fill and electronically sign the application forms
• Upload filled and signed application forms
• Upload supporting documents
• Pay the visa fee
• Pay biometrics fee
• Submit the application
• Give your biometrics are your nearest VAC
• Check the status of your application
• On approval, submit or mail your passport to your nearest VAC
• Receive or pick up your passport with Canada visa

Documents required for Canada tourist visa

The following documents are required for Canada tourist visa.

• Completed and signed Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) Application “Form IMM5257” 
• Completed family information “Form IMM5645”
• Proof of financial support (last 4-month bank statements or payslips or employment letter)
• Copy of your passport (first and last page)
• Purpose of travel (round-trip flight tickets and hotel bookings)
• Travel history (all pages with visas/stamps from your old and new passport in the last 10 years)
• Completed “Schedule 1 Form 5257”
• Letter of explanation of your trip (optional, a cover letter explaining your purpose of travel to Canada)

All forms can be downloaded from your application page. 

Provide all pages of your old and new passports that have stamps or visas. This will ensure you have a considerable travel history.

NOTE If you have traveled to Canada in the last 10 years or hold a valid US non-immigrant visa, your application may be processed in 2 to 5 working days under the CAN+ program.

What is CAN+ visa program?

Canada Immigration and Citizenship (CIC) has started asking applicants for visas, stamps and travel history for the last 10 years.

Applicants who have traveled to Canada in the last 10 years or hold a valid US non-immigrant visa are considered for CAN+ expedited program. If qualified, some additional documentation is not required and the application is processed within 2-5 working days.

At the beginning of your application, you will be asked questions specific to previous travel to Canada and the United States to determine your eligibility. You will be asked to upload less documentation if you are determined as eligible. 

Even though you qualify for the CAN+ expedited program, your application may take several days to process. There are many factors involved. So do not count on the CAN+ program. Instead, follow the current processing times and apply for Canada visitor visa well in advance.

Canada tourist visa fee

Canada tourist visa fee is $100 CAD. The fee must be paid using a credit or debit card in CAD only. Since the fee is in CAD, your bank may charge a foreign transaction fee. 

Biometric procedure

Biometrics are mandatory for all Canada tourist visa applicants. Your fingerprints are scanned and your photograph is taken during the biometric appointment. 

NOTE Biometrics are valid for 10 years. If you have given your biometrics in the last 10 years as part of a Canada visitor, work or study visa, you are NOT REQUIRED to give your biometrics again. 

You can use the Biometric Validity Tool on the IRCC website to check if your biometrics are still valid.

If your biometrics are still valid, you do not need to pay the biometric fee and do not need to give biometrics.

The following are the steps for biometrics.

STEP 1: Pay your biometric fee

The biometric fee for Canada tourist visa is $85 CAD. The fee must be paid using a credit or debit card in CAD only. 

You can pay the biometric fee when you submit your visa application or at a later time. It’s highly recommended to pay your biometric fee when you submit your visa application. Paying later will delay your biometrics and eventually your visa process. 

STEP 2: Receive biometric instruction letter within 24 hours

If you have paid your biometric fee when submitting your visa application, you will receive your biometric instruction letter within 24 hours of application submission.

STEP 3: Schedule biometric appointment at your nearest VAC

After you receive your biometric instruction letter, you will have 30 days to give your biometrics. Failing to give biometrics within 30 days will result in visa refusal. 

Follow the instructions in your biometric instruction letter and schedule a biometric appointment at your nearest Visa Application Center (VAC) or Application Support Center (ASC) . 

Once you schedule your biometric appointment, you will receive a biometric appointment confirmation letter from VAC or ASC. 

If you have temporary injuries on your fingers and/or your face, you must wait to give your biometrics. You should contact IRCC customer support to request additional time for your biometrics appointment. 

If you have permanent injuries on your fingers and/or face, you can continue with your biometrics appointment. The staff at VAC can scan as many fingers as possible and take your photograph. 

STEP 4: Gather documents for biometric appointment

Print your biometric instruction letter and biometric appointment confirmation. Some VACs require a consent form. If your VAC requires one, you will see instructions about it in your biometric appointment confirmation. 

STEP 4: Appear in-person at the VAC on your appointment day

On your appointment day, carry the following documents

• Biometric instruction letter 
• Biometric appointment confirmation
• Consent form (if required)

Your fingerprints will be scanned and your photo will be taken. To avoid any issues with your fingerprint or photo, follow the below instructions.

• Make sure your 10 fingers are free of any temporary injuries, cuts and cracks
• Make sure your 10 fingers are free of paint, oil, grease, etc.
• Make sure your face is free of any temporary injuries, sunglasses, hats, etc.
• Wear a bright color shirt or T-shirt

Visa processing time

Canada tourist visa processing can take up to 30 calendar days. Processing times vary by country, check the current processing times before applying. 

Follow the below steps to check the current visa processing times in your location. 

• Goto CIC Check processing times page
• For the question “Select an application type:”, select “Temporary residence (visiting, studying, working)”
• For the question “Which temporary residence application?”, select “Visitor visa (from outside Canada)”
• For the question “Where are you applying from?”, select the country where you have applied from
• Click on “Get processing time”

Visa application status tracking

You can check the status of your visa application by signing into your IRCC account. When there is a change in the status, you will receive an email alert. Then you can sign in to your IRCC account and check the status. 

If your application has been pending for too long, you can contact CIC using their IRCC Webform. Follow the below steps to contact CIC.

• Go to IRCC Web Form
• Click on “Tell us more”.
• For the question “Have you submitted an application for”, select option “Yes”
• For the question “Is your application being processed by an office OUTSIDE Canada”, select “Yes”
• For the question “Choose the visa office processing your application.”, select the country and city where you have applied
• Click on “Go to Web form”
• Then fill in the details and submit.

Priority visa service

There is no priority visa service for Canada tourist visa. Check current processing times and apply well in advance. You can apply for Canada tourist visa up to 3 months in advance.

If you traveled to Canada in the last 10 years or hold a valid US non-immigrant visa, your application MAY BE expedited under CAN+ program where your application will be processed in just a few days.

Processing your application in CAN+ expedited program is at the discretion of CIC. So, do not completely rely on that. Instead, follow the timeline and apply for Canada visitor visa at least 3 months before your travel.

Passport submission

When your Canada tourist visa application is approved, you will be notified via email. You must submit or mail your original passport to your nearest VAC or ASC. The VAC or ASC will then send your passport to the Consulate of Canada for the visa sticker.

Customer support

There is no dedicated customer service. You can track your application status online. If you have to contact CIC for any reason, use the IRCC Web Form . For other inquiries, you can contact your nearest VAC.

Application withdrawal

There is no formal procedure to withdraw your Canada tourist visa application. You can just abandon it. If you do not send your passport within 30 days of application approval, your application will be void anyway.

Also Read: 10 ways to get a flight itinerary for visa application in 2023

ENTERING AND LEAVING CANADA

Entering canada by air.

At your first airport in Canada, the immigration officers may ask you a few questions about your purpose of travel and the number of days you will stay in Canada.

You may be asked to show your return/onward ticket and your hotel booking. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, make sure to get proof of onward ticket .

Leaving Canada by air

There is no exit procedure for Canada. After the security procedure, you can head straight to the departure gate

The US has set up its Customs and Immigration in some of the Canadian airports. So, if you will be traveling to the US from Canada, you may have to go through US immigration at the departure airport in Canada.

When you land in the US, you will just walk out as if it were a domestic flight.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is GCKey on CIC website?

The Government of Canada Key (GCKey) is needed to access any of the Government of Canada’s online services, including Canada Immigration and Citizenship (CIC) website. Therefore, you need a GCKey to sign into the CIC website to apply for Canada tourist visa. GCKey is basically a username and password.

Why is my application not being processed in CAN+ expedited program

Even though you qualify for CAN+ expedited program, your application may take several days to process. The application process took more than 30 days for some readers with a travel history to Canada and/or hold US visas. There are many factors involved and ultimately it’s at the discretion of CIC whether to process your application quickly. 

My advice is to just follow the regular processing timeline. Check the current processing times and apply well in advance.

How relevant is travel history for Canada visa?

Travel history will improve your chances of visa approval. It can also speed up the process. If you have traveled to Canada in the last 10 years or hold a valid US visa, your application may be processed quickly under CAN+ expedited program.

Canada’s incredible geography attracts millions of tourists every year. Canada tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. The application process is online. Canada typically issues long-term multiple-entry visas for 5 to 10 years.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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American citizens, including American-Canadian citizens, must carry proper identification and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada . You do not need a Canadian passport, a Canadian visa or an eTA to enter Canada if you are travelling with a valid U.S. passport.

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

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The DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is for temporary travel to the United States, and for K (fiancé(e)) visas. Form DS-160 is submitted electronically to the Department of State website via the Internet. Consular Officers use the information entered on the DS-160 to process the visa application and, combined with a personal interview, determine an applicant’s eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa.

Visa applicants must submit a completed DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application for all nonimmigrant visa categories, including applicants applying for K visas. ( Note:   For K visa cases in process at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate prior to October 7, 2013, review the limited exceptions explained in the FAQs below.) 

Review the Frequently Asked Questions for instructions about using the DS-160.

Access the online DS-160 by clicking: Consular Electronic Application Center website .

Important Notice to Visa Applicants: After you have completed the DS-160, you must take these next steps below:

• Print and keep the DS-160 barcode page. (You will not need to print the full application.)
• You must schedule a visa interview appointment.  (The U.S. Embassy or Consulate does not schedule an appointment for you.) Visit the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  website where you will be interviewed for country-specific instructions.;
• Pay the visa application processing fee . Review country-specific instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  website.

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• For International Visitors

Visa Waiver Program

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) , administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in consultation with the State Department, permits citizens of 41 countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. In return, those 41 countries must permit U.S. citizens and nationals to travel to their countries for a similar length of time without a visa for business or tourism purposes.

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Authorization via ESTA does not determine whether a traveler is admissible to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers determine admissibility upon travelers’ arrival. The ESTA application collects biographic information and answers to VWP eligibility questions. ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel, though it is recommended that travelers apply as soon as they begin preparing travel plans or prior to purchasing airline tickets.

Other Visa Information

• Frequently Asked Questions about the VWP and the VWP Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015
• Frequently Asked Questions about the VWP and the ESTA
• VWP Signatory Carriers List
• Guam- CNMI Visa Waiver Program
• Guam-CNMI VWP Signatory Carriers
• Travel by Pleasure Boats or Ferries

Flying to Canada? Entry Rules Have Changed

Canada has introduced a new entry requirement, known as Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) , for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travelers with a valid visa.

Apply for a Canada eTA

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

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How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

Find out if you need a visa to visit the U.S.

Check if your country participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa.

Visitor (tourist) visas and other travel documents for entering the U.S.

The visitor visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories:

• B-1 for business travel
• B-2 for tourism and medical treatment

Learn about B-1 and B-2 visas , including:

• Reasons you would need each type of visitor visa
• How to apply
• What documents you will need
• Application fees
• How to prepare for your interview at your U.S. embassy or consulate

Along with your visa, you must bring a passport issued by your country of citizenship. When you arrive at your port of entry into the U.S., officials will issue you a Form I-94, which electronically records your arrival and departure dates. Learn more about Form I-94.

How to renew a visitor visa

The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

Find the contact information for your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and contact them for visa renewal information.

Understand expiration dates for visas and I-94 forms

• The date you must depart the U.S. will be shown on your Form I-94. This date is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer when you arrive at the port-of-entry into the U.S. 
• Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas while they are in the U.S.

LAST UPDATED: May 31, 2024

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