Canada is a land of stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. A visit to Canada is the perfect opportunity to experience all that this magnificent country has to offer. From the cosmopolitan cities of Toronto and Vancouver, to the majestic Rocky Mountains, Canada has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for?
Do I need an ETA or a TRV?
To start your journey exploring this beautiful country, you must first apply and obtain either a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Which visa is the right one for you depends on your country of citizenship.
Not everyone is required to obtain a Visitor Visa before arriving in Canada. Requirements depend on your country of citizenship and there are many countries that are exempted from the Visitor Visa requirement. Search your country of citizenship in the table below to find out whether you need to obtain a Visa or an eTA.
As of March 16th 2016, the new requirement came into effect for a visa-exempt foreign national who flies to or transits through Canada now needing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). There are a few exceptions to this rule, including U.S Citizens and travellers with a valid visa (American Green Card holders need to apply).
An eTA can be applied for online at a little cost of CAD $7. It is essential that the applicant applies in advance as although the average processing time is several minutes for an eTA to be granted, it can, however, take up to several days. Once the eTA has been approved it is then valid for 5 years or until the applicant’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
It is also important to remember that the validity date of the visa does not surpass the validity date of the passport or travel document.
Most tourist visas are issued for a stay of up to 6 months in Canada.
If it is stated that the traveller needs an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), this only applies if they fly to Canada. However, these travellers do not need an eTA if entering by land or sea – for instance driving from the U.S. or coming by bus, train, or boat, including cruise ship.
*Brazil – Citizens of Brazil who have held a Canadian Temporary Visa in the past 10 years, or currently hold a valid US non-immigrant visa
*Romania – Citizens of Romania are visitor visa exempt if they hold an electronic passport, in this case the citizen for an Electronic Travel Authorization
Eligibility
- Have a legal valid travel document (passport)
- Be in good health
- Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
- Proof of strong ties in your home country; such as a job, property, financial assets, which will satisfy an officer of your intention to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your entire stay in Canada
- A medical exam and letter of invitation may also be required under certain circumstances
Restrictions
- Visitor visas do not allow holders to work while in Canada
- A valid visitor visa cannot be issued past the expiry date of your passport
Immigration options
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