Canada Transit Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Required for transit through Canada for up to 48 hours
- No government application fee (though biometrics fees may apply)
- Mandatory for citizens of visa-required countries even if staying in the airport
- Processed online or via a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
- Valid for travellers connecting to a third country destination
- Requires proof of a confirmed flight booking out of Canada
- Applicants must be in good health and have no criminal record
- Visa-exempt travellers may need an eTA instead of a transit visa
Processing time
2-8 weeks
Processing times vary significantly based on the volume of applications and the specific Visa Office handling your file. Biometrics recruitment adds time to the total process.
Estimated cost
$0 - $85 CAD
- Government Application FeeFREE
- Biometrics Fee (if required)$85 CAD
Requirements
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of transit.
- You must be travelling to a country other than Canada.
- Your stay in Canada must be less than 48 hours.
- You must have a confirmed flight reservation leaving Canada.
- You must be admissible to Canada (no criminal or health-related bans).
- You must hold a valid visa or travel authority for your final destination.
- You must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) if required based on your nationality.
- You must be able to convince an officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your transit.
Documents you'll need
- A valid passport or travel document with at least one blank page
- Proof of legal status in your current country (e.g., visa or residence permit)
- Flight itinerary showing travel from Canada to a third country within 48 hours
- Valid visa or entry permit for your final destination country
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (digital or physical depending on method)
- Completed Application for Visitor Visa (IMM 5257) form
- Proof of funds to support yourself during your brief stay (if requested)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility
Determine if you need a Transit Visa or an eTA based on your nationality and the type of travel document you hold.
- 2
Prepare Your Application
Create an account on the official IRCC website or gather paper forms if applying through a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- 3
Upload Supporting Documents
Scan and upload your passport, flight itinerary, and destination visa. Ensure all documents are clear and in English or French.
- 4
Pay Necessary Fees
While there is no fee for the visa itself, you must pay the biometrics fee if you haven't provided them in the last 10 years.
- 5
Provide Biometrics
Once you receive your Biometrics Instruction Letter, book an appointment at a local VAC to have your fingerprints and photo taken.
- 6
Wait for Processing
The embassy will review your application. You may be asked for more information or an interview, though interviews are rare for transit visas.
- 7
Submit Passport for Stamping
If approved, you will be asked to send your passport to the VAC or embassy to have the visa foil inserted.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Apply at least two months before your trip to account for unexpected processing delays.
- Ensure your flight itinerary clearly shows your name and confirmed flight numbers.
- Check if your transit requires changing terminals, which often involves passing through customs.
- Include a copy of your visa for your final destination to prove you have onward travel rights.
- Double-check all forms for consistency; small errors in passport numbers can lead to instant refusal.
- Keep a digital and physical copy of your transit visa with you while travelling.
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.