Visitor Visa
Do You Need a Visitor Visa to Travel to Canada?
Most travelers require a visitor visa to enter Canada. This includes those transiting through a Canadian airport route to their final destination
What is a Visitor Visa?
A visitor visa, also known as a temporary resident visa (TRV), is an official document issued by Canadian immigration authorities. This document, placed in your passport, confirms that you meet the requirements to travel to Canada
Types of Visitor Visas:
A visa officer determines the type and validity of your visitor visa based on your application
Single-entry Visa: Allows you to enter Canada once
Multiple-entry Visa: Permits multiple entries within the validity period
Validity of a Visitor Visa
- Up to 10 years, or
- .Until the expiration of your passport or biometrics, whichever comes first
How Long Can You Stay in Canada?
Most visitors are allowed to stay in Canada for up to 6 months. However, the exact duration of your stay depends on the decision made by the border services officer at the port of entry.
Decisions at the Port of Entry
When you arrive in Canada:
- A border services officer may grant you a stay shorter or longer than 6 months.
- If this happens, they will:
- Stamp your passport with the departure date, or
- Issue you a document called a visitor record, which will include the date you need to leave.
No Passport Stamp?
If your passport is not stamped, you are allowed to stay:
- For 6 months from the date of entry, or
- Until the expiry of your biometrics or passport, whichever comes first.
Super Visa Holders
As of June 22, 2023, super visa holders can stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit.
Need a Passport Stamp?
If you want your passport stamped:
Ask a border services officer after completing the process at a primary inspection kiosk (if applicable).
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you must:
- Have a valid travel document such as a passport.
- Be in good health.
- Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions.
- Demonstrate strong ties to your home country, such as:
- A job
- Property or financial assets
- Family connections
- Convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit.
- Show that you have enough financial resources to cover your stay.
- The required amount depends on the length of your stay and whether you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or family.
Additional Requirements
In some cases, you may also need:
- A medical examination.
- A letter of invitation from someone residing in Canada.
Need Assistance with Your Visa Application?
Our expert team is ready to guide you through the process and ensure your application meets all the necessary requirements. Contact us today!
Reasons to Apply for a Visitor Visa
A visitor visa allows you to travel to Canada temporarily for a variety of purposes. You may apply for a visitor visa if you are planning to:
Visit as a Tourist
Explore Canada’s natural beauty, attractions, and cultural landmarks.
Visit for Business
Attend meetings, conferences, or other business-related activities.
Visit Your Spouse or Partner
If your spouse or partner has sponsored you for permanent residence, you can apply for a visitor visa to spend time with them during the process.
Visit Family
Spend quality time with family members residing in Canada.
Visit for Compassionate Reasons
Travel to Canada in urgent or compassionate situations, such as supporting a loved one during a critical time.
Join a Vessel as Marine Crew
If you are a marine crew member (also known as a “seafarer”), you can apply to join your vessel while it is docked in Canada.
