Discover Canada
Canada, a land of breathtaking landscapes from the Rockies to Niagara Falls, vibrant cities like Toronto and Vancouver, and a welcoming multicultural society, attracts millions of visitors each year. In 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), while others require a Visitor visa for tourism or business purposes.
Required Documents
Valid Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Canada.
eTA or Visitor Visa Application
Apply online for eTA or Visitor visa via the IRCC portal.
Passport Photo
Digital photo for eTA (upload online); 2 photos (50 x 70 mm) for Visitor visa.
Travel Itinerary
Proof of return or onward ticket recommended for entry.
Accommodation Proof
Hotel booking or invitation letter from a Canadian host with their details.
Travel Insurance
Recommended; coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation.
Proof of Funds
CAD 2,500+ for stay (e.g., bank statement), often required at entry.
Application Fee
eTA: CAD 7; Visitor visa: CAD 100 + biometrics (CAD 85 if applicable).
How to Apply
Application Steps
Check Eligibility
Gather Documents
Apply Online
Submit & Pay
Biometrics (if required)
Processing
Enter Canada
Check Eligibility
Gather Documents
Apply Online
Submit & Pay
Biometrics (if required)
Processing
Enter Canada
1. Check Eligibility
Determine if your nationality requires an eTA (e.g., USA, UK) or Visitor visa (e.g., India, China).
2. Gather Documents
Prepare passport, photo, itinerary, funds proof, and accommodation details.
3. Apply Online
Submit eTA or Visitor visa application via canada.ca or IRCC’s online portal.
4. Submit & Pay
Upload documents, pay fees (eTA: CAD 7; Visitor visa: CAD 100 + biometrics).
5. Biometrics (if required)
Schedule and attend a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
6. Processing
eTA: Minutes to 72 hours; Visitor visa: 14-60 days depending on country.
7. Enter Canada
Present eTA-linked passport or Visitor visa at the border; answer immigration questions.
Visa Fees
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA, 7 years or until passport expires): CAD 7
- Visitor Visa (single or multiple entry, up to 6 months): CAD 100
- Biometrics (if required): CAD 85 per person
- Super Visa (for parents/grandparents, up to 5 years per entry): CAD 100 + biometrics
- Business Visitor Visa: CAD 100
*Fees subject to change. Confirm details at canada.ca.
FAQ
Do I need a visa for Canada in 2025?
Visa-exempt countries (e.g., USA, UK, Australia) need an eTA; others require a Visitor visa.
How long can I stay with an eTA or Visitor visa?
Up to 6 months per entry, unless specified otherwise by border officers.
Can I extend my stay in Canada?
Yes, apply for an extension online at least 30 days before your status expires.
What’s Canada’s passport rank in 2025?
Ranked 5th globally, with visa-free access to 188 destinations (Henley Passport Index).
Are vaccinations required?
No mandatory vaccines, but proof of health insurance is advised.
References
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): canada.ca
- eTA Application: canada.ca/eta
- Destination Canada: destinationcanada.com