To enter Canada from any country in the world, you must get one of six separate visas, each with its own set of qualifying criteria and expenses. Your specific situation and reason for visiting Canada will determine which visa you need to apply for.
We’ll examine each of the 6 visa types in detail, including their requirements, eligibility criteria, and processing times. This information will be useful whether you’re a business owner or a tourist planning a trip to Canada.
To enter Canada, who requires a visa?
While some nationalities can enter Canada without a visa, many others require one. The Canadian government website provides a comprehensive list of visa-exempt countries.
If your country isn’t on this list, you’ll typically need one of the following visa types to enter Canada:
Examples of these countries include Greenland, Saint Pierre and Miquelon (a French overseas territory), Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, the Vatican City State, Liechtenstein, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Slovenia. The website below provides a thorough list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa to enter Canada.
Citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list will need a visa to enter Canada. Processing times can vary from one day to several months, depending on the visa type, application location, and individual circumstances. It’s advisable to start the application process early if time is a factor.
6 Visas for Getting into Canada
Canada offers seven different visa types, each with unique eligibility requirements and fees. Let’s explore these options for those planning to visit Canada soon.
#1. Visa for tourists
You must apply for a visitor visa if you intend to travel to Canada as a tourist.
Conditions for obtaining a Canada visitor’s visa: This visa is for those meeting eligibility requirements and planning short-term visits to Canada.
Conditions for a Tourist Visa to Canada: The application process is relatively straightforward. You’ll need personal documents like a passport or travel document, and a letter of invitation from a Canadian resident.
Fee for Canada visitor visa: 100 CAD (including taxes).
Processing time for visitor visas in Canada: Typically 20 days, but can take up to three months for countries requiring biometrics or special considerations.
#2. Work Permit and Work Visa
These are required for those intending to work in Canada. Your prospective employer must first offer you a job and complete necessary paperwork before you can apply.
Qualifications for a Work Visa: Requirements include:
- A job offer from a Canadian employer
- The job offer must be for a position in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) with skill levels A, B, or O
Conditions for a Work Visa: Required documents include:
- A valid passport
- A written job offer letter from a Canadian employer detailing salary and employment duration
Fee for Canada Work Visa: 155 Canadian dollars (including taxes)
Canada Work Visa Processing Time: Average of 20 days, up to three months for countries requiring biometrics or special considerations.
#3. Visa for study
Required for those planning to study in Canada. You must be accepted by a Canadian educational institution before applying.
Canada Study Visa Eligibility: Requirements include:
- Acceptance by a Canadian university or college
- Proof of ability to cover expenses in Canada
Conditions for a Study Visa: Required documents include:
- A valid passport
- An official acceptance letter from a Canadian educational institution
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover expenses in Canada
Cost of a study visa: 150 CAD (including taxes)
Time taken to process a Canada Study Visa: Average of 20 days, up to four months for countries requiring biometrics or special considerations.
#4. Visa for a Permanent Resident
Various types of Permanent Residence visas are available for those seeking permanent residency in Canada. Carefully review eligibility requirements and application procedures for the most suitable option.
#5. Visa Super
This temporary resident visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for up to two years.
Qualifications for a Super Visa: Requirements include:
- Having a child or grandchild who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Meeting necessary security and medical requirements
Fee for Super Visa: 100 CAD (including taxes)
Processing Time for a Super Visa: Average of 20 days, up to six months for countries requiring biometrics or special considerations.
#6. Visa for business
Required for conducting business in Canada. This visa is for non-residents attending meetings, negotiating contracts, attending short courses, or investing in businesses.
Obtaining a Business Visa: Requirements include:
- An invitation to conduct business from a Canadian organization or company
- Proof of ability to fund your stay in Canada
Conditions for Obtaining a Business Visa: Required documents include:
- A valid passport
- Confirmation of invitation from a Canadian organization or association
- Proof of ability to cover expenses during your stay in Canada