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
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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.