Visitor Visa vs. eTA: Which Do You Need?
Before planning your trip to Canada, you need to determine what travel document you require. The type of document depends on your nationality, how you are traveling, and the purpose of your visit.
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) -- Visitor Visa
Citizens of most countries need a Temporary Resident Visa (commonly called a visitor visa) to enter Canada. This is a physical stamp or document placed in your passport by a Canadian visa office. It can be issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. Since 2014, most visitor visas are issued as multiple-entry visas, valid for up to 10 years or until one month before your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Citizens of visa-exempt countries (such as citizens of the European Union, Australia, Japan, and others) who are flying to Canada need an eTA instead of a visitor visa. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for five years or until your passport expires. It costs only CAD $7 and is often approved within minutes. If you are entering Canada by land or sea from a visa-exempt country, you do not need an eTA or a visa.
Note that U.S. citizens do not need a visa or an eTA to visit Canada -- only a valid passport.
Visitor Visa Requirements
To be eligible for a Canadian visitor visa, you generally must:
- Have a valid travel document (passport)
- Be in good health (you may need a medical exam in some cases)
- Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
- Convince the immigration officer that you have ties to your home country (such as a job, home, financial assets, or family) that will motivate you to leave Canada at the end of your visit
- Convince the officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- Have enough money for your stay (the amount depends on your circumstances, the length of your stay, and whether you will stay at a hotel or with friends or relatives)
Documents Needed for the Application
A strong visitor visa application typically includes:
- Valid passport: Must be valid for the duration of your planned stay
- Completed application forms: IMM 5257 (Application for Temporary Resident Visa) and IMM 5645 (Family Information)
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of financial support: Bank statements for the past several months, employment letter showing salary, or a letter of invitation from your host in Canada (if applicable)
- Travel itinerary: Details of your planned trip, including dates, destinations, and accommodation
- Purpose of visit letter: A clear explanation of why you want to visit Canada and your plans during the visit
- Ties to home country: Evidence of employment, property ownership, family obligations, or other commitments that demonstrate your intent to return
- Invitation letter: If visiting family or friends in Canada, a letter from your host including their contact information, immigration status, and details of the visit
- Application fee: CAD $100 per person, plus biometric fees of CAD $85
How to Apply
Online Application
Most visitor visa applications are submitted online through the IRCC website. The online process involves creating an account, completing the application forms, uploading supporting documents, paying the fees, and submitting the application. After submission, you will receive instructions to provide biometrics at a designated collection center.
Paper Application
In some cases, you may submit a paper application at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country. This option is available for applicants who cannot apply online due to a disability or other circumstances.
Processing Times
Processing times vary significantly depending on the country from which you apply. Some applications are processed in a few weeks, while others may take several months. You can check current processing times on the IRCC website by selecting your country of residence. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
At the Canadian Border
Having a visitor visa does not guarantee entry into Canada. At the port of entry, a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer will verify your identity, ask about the purpose and duration of your visit, and decide whether to admit you. The officer may stamp your passport with an entry date. Unless specified otherwise, you are generally authorized to stay for up to six months.
Extending Your Stay
If you want to stay in Canada longer than the authorized period, you must apply for an extension before your current status expires. The extension application is submitted online through IRCC and costs CAD $100. You should apply at least 30 days before your status expires. If you apply before your status expires, you can remain in Canada on implied status while your extension is being processed.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early: Give yourself plenty of time before your planned travel date.
- Be thorough: Include all required documents and answer all questions completely.
- Show strong ties to your home country: This is often the most critical factor. Demonstrate that you have compelling reasons to return home.
- Prove financial sufficiency: Show that you have enough funds for your trip and that you will not need to work illegally in Canada.
- Be honest: Never misrepresent information. Misrepresentation can result in a five-year ban from Canada.
- Provide a clear purpose: Explain exactly why you are visiting and what you plan to do during your stay.
- Include a travel history: If you have traveled to other countries (especially the U.S., UK, Schengen area, or Australia), include evidence of your travel history and compliance with visa conditions.
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Insufficient proof of ties to home country
- Inadequate financial resources
- Unclear purpose of travel
- Incomplete application or missing documents
- Previous immigration violations in Canada or other countries
- Concerns about the applicant overstaying in Canada
How Imigrando Can Help
While a visitor visa may seem straightforward, refusal rates can be high for applicants from certain countries. At Imigrando, we help you prepare a comprehensive and compelling visitor visa application that addresses all of IRCC's concerns. From organizing your documents to crafting a strong purpose of visit letter, we ensure your application presents the strongest possible case. Contact us to discuss your travel plans and how we can assist with your visitor visa application.