Canada Digital Nomad Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
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
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.