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
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.