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eTA / Visa

Canada

North America

Canada uses an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for visa-exempt air travelers and a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for everyone else.

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Processing time
eTA: minutes · Visa: 2–4 weeks
Visa fee
CAD 100 (visa) / CAD 7 (eTA)
Validity
Up to 10 years
Entry
Multiple
At a glance

Canada: eTA for visa-exempt travelers; visitor visa for others. Fee: CAD 100 (visa) / CAD 7 (eTA). Processing: eTA: minutes · Visa: 2–4 weeks. Validity: Up to 10 years. Requirements vary by nationality and can change — always verify with the official embassy before you apply.

Do I need a visa?

It depends on your nationality. Visa-exempt travelers flying to Canada need an eTA; all others must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa before travel.

Required documents

Valid passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages)
Completed and signed visa application form
Recent passport-size photographs (per spec)
Proof of accommodation or hotel bookings
Confirmed return or onward flight itinerary
Proof of sufficient funds (recent bank statements)
Travel insurance covering the full stay
Proof of ties to home country (employment / studies)

How to apply for a Canada visa

Follow these steps to apply for a Canada eTA / Visa. Exact requirements depend on your nationality, so confirm each step with the official mission before you start.

  1. Check if you need a visaIt depends on your nationality. Visa-exempt travelers flying to Canada need an eTA; all others must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa before travel.
  2. Choose the right visa typePick the category that matches your trip. For short visits most travelers use the eTA / Visa.
  3. Prepare your documentsGet your passport ready (valid for 6+ months) along with photos, proof of funds, accommodation and onward travel, and insurance where required.
  4. Submit your applicationComplete the online application for the eTA / Visa, upload your supporting documents and submit it for processing.
  5. Pay the visa feePay the fee of CAD 100 (visa) / CAD 7 (eTA). Additional service, biometric or courier charges may apply on top.
  6. Wait for a decision and travelAllow eTA: minutes · Visa: 2–4 weeks for processing. Once approved, travel with your visa or authorisation and a passport that matches your application exactly.

Entry rules

Most visitor visas are multiple entry and valid until passport expiry. Each stay is normally limited to six months.

Special notes

Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are required for most visa applicants and are valid for 10 years.

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to visit Canada?
It depends on your nationality. Visa-exempt travelers flying to Canada need an eTA; all others must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa before travel.
How long does processing take?
Typical processing is eta: minutes · visa: 2–4 weeks. Plan well ahead of your travel date and account for appointment availability.
How much does the visa cost?
The standard fee is CAD 100 (visa) / CAD 7 (eTA). Additional service, biometric or courier charges may apply on top of this.
How long can I stay?
Up to 10 years. Most visitor visas are multiple entry and valid until passport expiry. Each stay is normally limited to six months.

North America

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