Visitor Visa
Every year, millions of people visit Canada as tourists, business visitors, or to visit family and friends. Canada welcomes visitors who meet entry requirements and comply with immigration regulations.
A Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows foreign nationals from visa-required countries to travel to Canada for a temporary stay. Some travellers may instead require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) depending on their nationality and mode of travel.
To Visit Canada You Must
- Be in good health and may be required to complete a medical examination in certain cases
- Have a valid passport or travel document
- Satisfy an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- Show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your visit
- Not have a criminal record or be otherwise inadmissible to Canada
- Provide supporting documents, such as a letter of invitation if visiting family or friends, where applicable
Visitors are responsible for their own medical and travel insurance, as healthcare services in Canada are generally not covered for temporary visitors.
Once You Arrive in Canada
When you arrive, a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer may ask questions to confirm the purpose of your visit and the length of your stay.
The officer will determine how long you are authorized to remain in Canada and may stamp your passport or issue a visitor record.
Visitors must comply with the conditions of their stay and cannot work or study unless authorized.
Extending Your Stay
If you wish to stay longer, you must apply to extend your visitor status before your current status expires.
It is recommended to apply at least 30 days before your authorized stay ends. Approval of an extension is not guaranteed and depends on meeting eligibility requirements.
