Canada Visa Guide — Every Visa Type Explained
Key highlights
- Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for visa-exempt citizens
- Standard Visitor Visas for tourism and family visits
- Comprehensive Study Permit pathways for international students
- Work Permit options including LMIA-based and Open permits
- Super Visas for parents and grandparents of residents
- Business Visitor visas for short-term corporate stays
- Transit visas for those passing through Canadian airports
- Express Entry and Provincial Nominee (PNP) residency links
Processing time
2-8 weeks (varies by country)
Times vary by country of residence and visa type. Study and Work permits often take longer than Visitor Visas.
Estimated cost
$100 - $185+
- Standard Visitor Visa Fee$100 CAD
- Biometrics Fee (if required)$85 CAD
- Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) fee$7 CAD
Requirements
- A valid passport with at least six months validity remaining
- Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay and return home
- Clean criminal record and no security-related restrictions
- Requirement to be in good health (medical exam may be needed)
- Intent to leave Canada at the end of your authorised stay
- No intention to work or study unless authorised by a specific permit
- Provision of biometrics (fingerprints and photo) if required
- Compliance with any specific regional or COVID-related health protocols
- A letter of acceptance from a DLI for study permit applicants
- A valid Job Offer or LMIA for most work permit applicants
Documents you'll need
- Current valid passport or travel document
- Proof of financial support (bank statements or pay slips)
- A digital photo meeting specific Canadian specifications
- Proof of ties to home country (employment letter or property deeds)
- Detailed travel itinerary including flight and hotel bookings
- Invitation letter from a host (if applicable)
- Medical exam results (if requested for long stays)
- Police certificates (if requested for certain applicants)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check your eligibility
Determine if you need a Visa or an eTA based on your nationality and mode of travel.
- 2
Create an online profile
Create an account on the IRCC official portal and complete the relevant application forms for your visa type.
- 3
Gather and upload documents
Upload clear, digital copies of all required documents, including your passport, financial proof, and itinerary.
- 4
Pay application fees
Pay the non-refundable application fee and biometrics fee using a valid credit or debit card.
- 5
Provide Biometrics
Once you receive your biometrics instruction letter, book an appointment at your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- 6
Wait for processing
Depending on your country and stay duration, you may be asked to undergo a medical exam or attend an interview.
- 7
Submit your passport
If approved, you will be asked to send your physical passport to the visa office for the visa foil to be inserted.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure all professional and educational history is consistent across all forms.
- Provide 'strong ties' to your home country, such as property ownership or job contracts.
- Submit high-quality, legible scans of all supporting documents.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa has been approved.
- Explain any previous visa refusals from any country honestly.
- Include a detailed cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.