Is there a dedicated Canada Digital Nomad Visa?

Canada does not have a specific 'Digital Nomad' visa sub-category; instead, nomads enter on a Visitor Visa or eTA to work remotely for up to 6 months.

Can I work for a Canadian company while on this visa?

No, you must work for an employer or clients based outside of Canada. You cannot enter the Canadian labour market on this status.

How long can I stay in Canada as a digital nomad?

Most remote workers can stay for up to 6 months. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for an extension from within Canada before your status expires.

What is the minimum income requirement?

While there is no fixed minimum, you should generally show at least $3,000–$5,000 CAD per month of stay to cover Canada's high cost of living.

Can I bring my family with me?

Yes, your spouse and dependent children can join you, though they must each submit their own visitor visa or work permit applications.

Do I need to pay taxes in Canada?

Digital nomads are generally considered non-residents for tax purposes if staying less than 183 days, but you should consult a tax professional.

Can I switch to a Work Permit while in Canada?

Yes, if you wish to work for a Canadian employer, you must apply for a formal Work Permit, which usually requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Why might a digital nomad visa application be refused?

Common reasons include insufficient funds, lack of ties to your home country, or suspicion that you intend to work for a Canadian company illegally.

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digital nomad visa

Canada Digital Nomad Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

Canada has emerged as a premier destination for remote workers by leveraging its existing visitor visa framework to welcome digital nomads. Unlike many countries that have created bespoke 'nomad' categories, Canada allows foreign nationals to work remotely for an employer based outside of the country for up to six months while on a standard Visitor Visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). This initiative is part of Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy, aimed at attracting global talent and boosting the local economy through extended tourism. During your stay, you can explore Canada’s diverse landscape—from the bustling tech hubs of Toronto and Vancouver to the scenic beauty of the Rockies—provided you do not enter the Canadian labour market. If you receive a job offer from a Canadian firm during your stay, you can apply for a work permit and potentially transition to permanent residency. Please note that visa policies are subject to change, and you should always verify the latest requirements with the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website before applying.

Key highlights

Work legally in Canada for up to 6 months for a foreign employer
Simple application process via the Visitor Visa (V-1) stream
No requirement for a Canadian job offer or LMIA sponsorship
Pathways available to transition to permanent residency via Express Entry
Enjoy world-class nature and high-speed internet infrastructure
Option to bring immediate family members on visitor status
Flexible entry requirements based on your country of citizenship

Processing time

15-120 days

Processing times vary significantly based on the applicant's country of residence and current application volumes at the relevant visa office.

Estimated cost

~$140 - $200

Visitor Visa application fee$100 CAD (~$75 USD)
Biometrics fee (if required)$85 CAD (~$65 USD)
Medical examination (if required)Varies

Requirements

Must work for an employer or clients located outside of Canada
Possess a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining
Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself (and family) during the stay
Intend to leave Canada at the end of the authorised stay period
No criminal record or immigration-related convictions
Meet standard health requirements and undergo a medical exam if requested
Have no intention of seeking employment with a Canadian company on this status
Provide a letter of employment confirming your job can be done remotely
Possess health insurance that covers the entire duration of your stay
Be from a country that is eligible for a Visitor Visa or eTA

Documents you'll need

A valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
Proof of employment with a company based outside of Canada
Recent bank statements (last 3-6 months) showing sufficient funds
A clean criminal record check/police certificate
Proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of stay
Digital passport-style photographs meeting IRCC specifications
Employment contract or letter from employer confirming remote work status
A detailed travel itinerary and proof of accommodation bookings

How to apply, step by step

1
Determine your entry type
Visit the official IRCC website to check if you need a Visitor Visa or an eTA based on your nationality.
2
Prepare your documents
Collect all necessary paperwork, including your foreign employment contract, bank statements, and a valid passport.
3
Submit the application
Complete the online application through the IRCC portal, providing accurate details about your remote work status.
4
Pay fees
Pay the application and biometrics fees online via the secure portal and keep your receipt.
5
Attend biometrics appointment
If required, book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
6
Wait for processing
Monitor your email for updates or requests for additional information while the IRCC processes your request.
7
Submit passport for stamping
Once approved, you will be asked to send your passport to the visa office for the visa sticker to be inserted.
8
Enter Canada
Travel to Canada and ensure youHave your documents ready for the border officer, who will determine your final length of stay.

Tips to avoid refusal

Clearly state your intent to work remotely for a non-Canadian company in your cover letter.
Provide evidence of 'ties to home,' such as property ownership or family, to prove you will leave after your stay.
Ensure your bank statements show a consistent income history, not just a one-time large deposit.
Double-check that your digital photos exactly meet the IRCC size and quality requirements.
Be honest about your remote work status to avoid being flagged for working illegally.

Frequently asked questions

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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.

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