Country hub
Canada visas
Whether you need a visa to enter Canada, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), or simply a valid passport depends on your nationality and how you are travelling. Canada’s immigration system is run by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This hub explains the main routes in plain language and links to the official sources so you can confirm exactly what applies to you before you travel or apply.
- Official informationFrom government sources
- Clear guidanceStep-by-step explanations
- Regularly reviewedKept up to date
Do I need a visa for Canada?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and how you travel: many visa-exempt nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to Canada for short visits, while others need a visitor visa. Longer stays, study and work require the appropriate permit. Check the official IRCC guidance for your situation.
Important information
Your exact requirements depend on your nationality, your travel document and how you arrive in Canada. Always confirm what you need with the official IRCC checker before you travel or apply.
Find the right Canada visa for you
Choose the category that matches your plans. Each route explains who it is for, what it covers and how to apply.
Visit
2 visa routesTourism, seeing family or friends, and short business trips.View visitor visasWork
Canada Work PermitEmployment, skilled work and business routes.View work visasStudy
Canada Study PermitCourses, degrees and student exchanges.View study visasJoin family
Canada Super VisaJoining a partner, parent or family member.View family visasSettle
Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa / TRV)Longer-term residence and settlement routes.View settlement visasCanada visa overview
How to apply – in 3 simple steps
- Check eligibilityUse the quick checker to confirm which visa you need for your trip.
- Prepare documentsGather your passport, photos and supporting paperwork using our guides.
- Submit & trackSubmit your application and track its progress.
Apply for a Canada visa
Start an application online and follow the guided steps.
Explore Canada visa types
Every Canada route we cover, with a short summary of who it is for.
Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
An electronic travel authorization linked to your passport, required for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canada.
Canada Transit Visa
For travellers passing through a Canadian airport on the way to another country. Whether you need a transit visa or an eTA depends on your nationality.
Canada Work Permit
The document that allows you to work in Canada. A work permit is a permit, not an entry visa.
Canada Study Permit
The document that allows you to study at a designated learning institution in Canada. A study permit is a permit, not an entry visa.
Canada Super Visa
A visa for the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, allowing extended visits to family in Canada.
Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa / TRV)
An official document placed in your passport that lets a traveller who is not visa-exempt visit Canada temporarily — for tourism or to see family.
Popular Canada guides
People also asked
Do I need a visa or an eTA to enter Canada?
It depends on your nationality and how you are travelling. Many visa-exempt travellers flying to Canada need an eTA, while others need a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa). Use the official IRCC tool to check your situation.
Is a study permit or work permit a visa?
No. A permit lets you study or work in Canada, but it is not an entry visa. Depending on your nationality you may also need a visitor visa or an eTA to travel to Canada.
Who runs Canada's visa system?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is the government department responsible for visas, eTAs and permits.