Canada · Tourist Visa
Tourist and visitor visa requirements, visa-free entry, duration, and application steps.
AI-drafted, editorially reviewed. Confirm specifics with the official authority.
To visit Canada you need either a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) or, if you are from a visa-exempt country flying in, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Which one applies depends on your nationality and how you travel. Visits are usually granted for up to six months, and visitor status does not allow work without separate authorisation.
To visit Canada you need either a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) or, if you are from a visa-exempt country flying in, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Visits are usually for up to six months. IRCC decides who needs which; apply online on the official Canada.ca pages. Visitors cannot work without separate authorisation.
- You need either a visitor visa (TRV) or, for visa-exempt air travellers, an eTA.
- Visits are usually granted for up to six months.
- Whether you need a visa or an eTA depends on your nationality and how you travel — check IRCC.
- Visitor status does not allow work without separate authorisation.
- 1
Find out whether you need a visa or an eTA
Use the IRCC tool on Canada.ca. The answer depends on your nationality and whether you arrive by air, land or sea.
- 2
Create an account and apply online
Apply through the official IRCC online portal. The eTA is a short online form; the visitor visa needs a fuller application with supporting documents.
- 3
Provide biometrics if required
Visitor-visa applicants usually give fingerprints and a photo at a visa application centre after applying. eTA applicants do not.
- 4
Show the purpose and funding of your visit
Be ready to document why you are visiting, where you will stay, how you will support yourself and your ties to your home country.
- 5
Travel and respect your status
The border services officer decides admission and how long you may stay. Do not work without separate authorisation, and apply to extend before your status expires if you need longer.
- Visa-or-eTA question answered with the IRCC tool
- Application submitted through the official IRCC portal
- Biometrics completed if required
- Purpose of visit and accommodation documented
- Proof of funds and ties to home country prepared
- Passport valid for the whole intended stay
- No work planned without separate authorisation
- Visit Canada (IRCC)
Official visitor-visa and eTA information.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an eTA or a visitor visa?
It depends on your nationality and how you arrive. Visa-exempt nationals flying to Canada generally need an eTA; others need a Temporary Resident Visa. IRCC's official tool on Canada.ca gives the answer for your case.
How long can I stay in Canada as a visitor?
Usually up to six months, but the border services officer sets the actual period on entry and may grant less. If you want to stay longer you must apply to extend your status from inside Canada before it expires.
Can I work or study on a visitor status?
No, not without separate authorisation. Work requires a work permit and longer courses require a study permit; visitor status alone does not cover either.
Government portals
- Government of Canada — Canada's federal service portal — immigration, taxes, benefits, and travel info
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada — Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, work/study permits, and PR card applications
- Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) — T1 personal tax returns, corporate taxes, GST/HST, and benefit applications (CCB)