Visitor Visa Application

Most travelers need a visitor visa to travel to Canada. You may also need one if you’re transiting through a Canadian airport on your way to your final destination. A visitor visa (also called a temporary resident visa) is an official document stuck in your passport. It shows that you meet the requirements needed to enter Canada.
A visitor visa allows visitors to stay for up to 6 months in Canada.

HOW THIS PROGRAM WORKS

You may need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization. The entry document you need depends on:

• the type of travel document you plan to travel with
• the country that issued your travel document
• your nationality
• your method of travel to Canada for this trip

You can apply for a visitor visa online or on paper. You may need to give biometrics with your application.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

You must meet some basic requirements to get a visitor visa. You must:

• have a valid travel document, like a passport
• be in good health
• have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets, or family—that will take you back to your home country
• convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
• have enough money for your stay

You may also need a medical exam and a letter of invitation from someone who lives in Canada.