LMIA FinderVisit Canada
Plan your trip to Canada. Find out if you need a visa or eTA, check processing times, and explore your options.
Visitor Visa (TRV)
A Temporary Resident Visa is required for citizens of countries that are not visa-exempt. It is a document placed in your passport that allows you to travel to a Canadian port of entry.
- Required for most countries in Asia, Africa, and South America
- Application fee of $100 CAD plus $85 biometrics
- Processing times vary from 2 weeks to several months
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
An eTA is an electronic entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. It is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for up to five years.
- For citizens of visa-exempt countries (EU, UK, Australia, Japan, etc.)
- Costs only $7 CAD and is usually approved within minutes
- Valid for five years or until your passport expires
Super Visa
The Super Visa is a multi-entry visa specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows extended stays of up to five years per visit.
- Stay up to five years per visit without renewal
- Valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries
- Requires medical insurance from a Canadian provider
Do I Need a Visa or eTA?
Quick reference to determine what you need to visit Canada
Visa Required (TRV)
You need a Temporary Resident Visa before travelling to Canada.
Applies to citizens of: India, China, Nigeria, Philippines, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Egypt, Vietnam, most countries in Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia.
eTA Required
You need an Electronic Travel Authorization to fly to Canada.
Applies to citizens of: United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Chile, Israel, most EU/EEA countries, and other visa-exempt nations.
No Visa or eTA Needed
You can travel to Canada without a visa or eTA.
Applies to: United States citizens. US permanent residents need an eTA when flying to Canada.
Enter your nationality to get personalized requirements
Top Countries
Select your country to see specific visa requirements, processing times, and tips for a successful application.
How to Apply for a Canadian Visitor Visa
Follow these six steps to submit a complete and strong application.
Determine Your Visa Type
Use our Visa Explorer tool or check the IRCC website to find out whether you need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), or if you are visa-exempt.
Gather Required Documents
Collect your valid passport, digital photos, proof of financial support, travel itinerary, letter of invitation (if applicable), and any additional documents specific to your country.
Complete the Online Application
Create an account on the IRCC online portal and fill out the application form. Upload your supporting documents and pay the processing fee.
Provide Biometrics
Visit a designated biometrics collection point (Visa Application Centre) to provide your fingerprints and photograph. This is required for most applicants aged 14 to 79.
Wait for Processing
Processing times vary by country and application type. You can check the status of your application online through your IRCC account.
Receive Your Decision
If approved, you will receive your visa or eTA confirmation. You may need to submit your passport for visa stamping at a VAC. If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons.
Costs and Fees
Current government fees for visiting Canada (in Canadian dollars).
Visitor Visa (TRV)
$100
per person
Biometrics
$85
per person (family max $170)
eTA
$7
per person, online only
Super Visa
$100
plus mandatory medical insurance
Super Visa Medical Insurance Requirement
Super Visa applicants must purchase private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company. The policy must cover at least $100,000 in health care, hospitalization, and repatriation, and must be valid for at least one year from the date of entry. This cost varies by provider, age, and health status but typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 per year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about visiting Canada as a tourist, business traveller, or family visitor.
Related Resources
Visitor Visa Processing Times
Check current processing times for visitor visa applications by country of residence.
Visa Explorer Tool
Find out exactly what documents and visa type you need based on your nationality and travel plans.
Immigration Pathways
Explore permanent residence options including Express Entry, Provincial Nominees, and family sponsorship.
Work Permits
Learn about LMIA-based and open work permits for temporary employment in Canada.
Study Permits
Study at a Canadian institution with pathways to post-graduation work permits and permanent residence.
Family Sponsorship
Sponsor your spouse, children, parents, or grandparents for permanent residence in Canada.