Discovering Canada: Visitor Visa Duration for Travelers Exploring the Country
Whether you’re planning to visit friends or family, immerse yourself in breathtaking attractions, or determine if Canada is the ideal destination for a permanent relocation, countless individuals choose to visit Canada annually! By obtaining a Canadian visitor visa, tourists can enjoy an extended stay in the country for a maximum duration of six months per visit.
The Canadian government is actively promoting Canada as a desirable destination for young, skilled workers to settle in the upcoming years. As economic immigration to Canada becomes more streamlined and efficient, now is an opportune time to discover the diverse offerings of the country as a visitor.
If you are not from a visa-exempt country, obtaining a visitor visa (also known as a Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) is mandatory for entry into Canada. Should you be applying for a study permit or work permit, the TRV will be included as part of your application process. However, if your intention is solely to visit Canada, you will need to independently apply for a visitor visa.
Visa-exempt countries are those with which Canada has agreements enabling their citizens and permanent residents to travel to Canada without the requirement of a visitor visa.
I’m from a country that is not visa-exempt, what will I need to visit?
When planning a visit to Canada, it’s important to understand the different types of visitor visas available. Canada offers both single-entry and multiple-entry visas. A single-entry visa allows foreign nationals to enter Canada once, while those with multiple-entry visas can enter and exit the country as frequently as desired within the visa’s validity period. The duration of a visitor visa can be granted for up to six months, although the specific length will be determined by the immigration officer handling your case.
For individuals who have children or grandchildren residing in Canada, there is an option to apply for the super visa for parents and grandparents. This multiple-entry visa permits extended stays of up to two years at a time, enabling you to spend quality time with your loved ones.
If you wish to extend your visitor visa while in Canada, it is only possible if your temporary status remains valid. Staying in Canada with an expired visitor visa and without an ongoing extension application can have negative implications for future immigration endeavors. However, if you have submitted an extension application prior to the visa’s expiry, you may remain in Canada under implied status until a decision is reached on your application.
Business travelers should take note that a separate business visitor visa may be required for their visit. It is essential to recognize that this visa does not grant permission for temporary foreign workers to engage in the Canadian labour market. To work in Canada, a distinct work permit is necessary.
I’m from a visa-exempt country, what will I need to visit?
Travellers coming to Canada from visa-exempt countries have the advantage of not requiring a visitor visa for entry. Visitors from visa-exempt nations can enjoy a stay in Canada for a maximum duration of six months.
However, if you are a visa-exempt traveller arriving in Canada by air, you must obtain an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) from the Canadian government. Visitors from visa-exempt countries entering Canada by sea or land are exempt from the eTA requirement. Thankfully, the process of obtaining an eTA is quick and cost-effective. By visiting the official Canadian government website, providing the necessary information, and paying the $7 CAD government fee, you can secure your eTA. In most cases, eTA applications are processed within minutes, although there may be instances where it takes a few days, so it’s advisable to apply in advance of your flight. Once approved, the eTA remains valid for 5 years or until the expiry of your passport.
For international students or temporary workers from visa-exempt countries, the Canadian government automatically includes an eTA with the issuance of your study or work permit.