Visit as a tourist
What you need to visit Canada, how to apply for a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) and what to expect when you arrive in Canada.
New entry requirement now in effect
Visa-exempt foreign nationals are expected to have an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. Exceptions include U.S. citizens, and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.
Note: Until September 29, 2016, travellers who do not have an eTA can board their flight, as long as they have appropriate travel documents, such as a valid passport. During this leniency period, border services officers can let travellers arriving without an eTA into the country, as long as they meet the other requirements to enter Canada. Find answers to your questions about the leniency period.
What you need to enter Canada
Entry requirements, what travel documents you will need, medical exams, if needed, letters of invitation, and what can make you inadmissible to Canada.
Find out if you need an eTA or a visa
List of countries whose citizens need an eTA or a visa and what documents you will need to come to Canada.
Apply to visit Canada as a tourist
Eligibility, how to apply, forms, fees and processing times.
Apply for a new visa (temporary residents in Canada)
Eligibility, how to apply, and forms and fees for students and workers who are already in Canada.
Check processing times
How long it takes to process visitor visas, eTAs, work permits, extensions, online and paper applications.
Find out what to do after you apply
Medical exams, police certificates, interviews, returning your documents and changing your address.
Minors travelling to Canada
Eligibility, documents needed to enter Canada, study permits and what can make them inadmissible to Canada.
Prepare for your arrival
Documents to present to the border officer and what to do if you plan to work or study in Canada.
Extend your stay in Canada
Eligibility, how to apply, forms, fees, implied status and how to become a permanent resident of Canada.
Features
Do you want to visit Canada?
Answer a few questions to find out if you are eligible to visit Canada and how to submit an online or paper application.
Questions about visiting Canada?
Find quick and direct answers to your questions about visiting Canada, including how long you can stay, whether you need an eTA or a visa, and how to apply.
How-to video (Biometrics)
A Step-by-step look at biometrics