Canada has a transparent, digital-first entry system but the rules vary by nationality and purpose. This guide explains visitor visas, eTA, work/study routes, how to prepare documents, common pitfalls, arrival tips at airports and land borders, and how to find official government resources. Read this to avoid delays and travel with confidence.
Canada requires most foreign nationals to hold either a valid visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board flights to Canada. Visas are linked to the purpose of travel—tourism, business, study, or work—and each category has rules about duration, entry count and permitted activity. The eTA is a lightweight online entry permission for visa-exempt nationals travelling by air. Note that entry is always decided by an immigration officer at the port of entry.
Citizens of a number of countries (e.g., US green card holders, many EU nationals, Australia, Japan) travel under eTA or visa-exempt rules. Other visitors must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) before travel. Students and temporary workers require study/work permits (separate process). Dual-purpose trips (study + work or long-term stays) usually require a permit and sometimes a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for work.
Canada’s immigration website favors online applications. Create an account, choose the correct application type, complete forms, upload required documents (passport, photos, supporting letters), pay the fee, and follow instructions for biometrics if requested. Processing times vary by nationality and category—check the official IRCC processing times before planning travel.
Fees depend on the document type (eTA, TRV, study permit, work permit) and are subject to change. Biometrics (photo + fingerprints) are commonly required and add a small fee and appointment step. Processing times can vary widely by country and season—students and temporary workers should expect longer lead times. Always check official current fees and timelines.
| Document | Typical Fee (estimate) | Typical Add-ons |
|---|---|---|
| eTA | Small online fee | Usually immediate to a few days |
| Visitor Visa (TRV) | Moderate processing fee + biometrics | Biometrics appointment, courier fees |
| Study/Work Permit | Higher; depends on category | Biometrics, medical exam (sometimes), employer paperwork |
At the border, a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer will ask about your purpose, length of stay, financial means, and where you will stay. Be concise and honest; present your passport, visa/eTA/permit approval, and supporting documents. For air arrivals, have documents available in your carry-on. For land entries (U.S.–Canada), follow signage and keep vehicle documents ready.
Wait for visa/permit approval before paying irreversible travel costs for long-stay categories.
Have proof of funds, return ticket, and first-night plans ready for the officer.
Canada’s health care is provincial—travel insurance for short stays is highly recommended.
For accurate and updated details on Canadian visas, entry requirements, and travel guidelines, refer to these official resources:
It depends on your nationality. Many travellers need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), while visa-exempt nationals require an eTA if arriving by air. U.S. citizens typically do not need an eTA or TRV but need a valid passport. Check the official IRCC site for your country’s specific rules. (Link above.)
eTA applications are usually processed quickly, often within hours or a few days. Visitor visa processing times vary by country and season—some take weeks. Apply early and check IRCC processing time estimates for your region.
No. Visitor status does not permit employment or full-time study. For work or long study you must apply for the appropriate permit (work permit or study permit) before beginning those activities.
Renew your passport with your home country’s embassy/consulate in Canada and inform IRCC if needed. Keep both old and new passports if your visa/permit was issued in the old passport.
Healthcare in Canada is public and provincial—most visitors are not covered. Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital costs is strongly recommended for the duration of your stay.
Many applicants are required to provide biometrics. If required, you’ll get an instruction letter after applying—book the nearest biometrics collection centre and attend as scheduled to avoid delays.
A visitor record is a document that sets conditions of your stay (expiry date, work/study conditions). Officers may issue one on entry to grant a specific stay length. Keep it safe; it’s proof of your legal status in Canada.
Log into your IRCC account (or the visa application centre portal if you applied via VAC) to view status updates, messages, or biometric requests. IRCC will also email key updates—save the application number for reference.