1. Single-Entry Visa
A single-entry visa allows you to enter Canada only once during its validity period. Once you leave Canada, except for travel to the U.S. or certain islands, you will need a new visa to return. This type of visa is usually issued for specific, time-bound visits such as conferences, family visits, or short business trips.
2. Multiple-Entry Visa
A multiple-entry visa allows holders to travel in and out of Canada as many times as they wish until the visa expires, typically valid for up to 10 years or one month before the passport’s expiry date (whichever comes first). This visa is ideal for frequent travelers, professionals, and families visiting Canada periodically.
Canada offers different visa categories depending on the applicant’s purpose. These include short-term and long-term visas, categorized mainly as temporary resident visas (TRVs) or permanent resident (PR) visas. Below are the detailed classifications.
Temporary visas are issued to foreign nationals who wish to stay in Canada for a limited period. While most temporary visas are valid for up to six months, the exact duration may depend on the visa category and the applicant’s circumstances. Temporary visas are required for purposes like tourism, study, short-term employment, or participation in cultural, business, or family events.
1. Visitor or Tourist Visa
2. Student Visa (Study Permit)
A Study Permit is required for international students pursuing academic or vocational programs in Canada lasting more than six months. Highlights:
(a) Employer-Specific Work Permit
Examples include:
Applicants must demonstrate that their main business activities and income sources remain outside Canada.
A Transit Visa is required for travelers from visa-required countries who are transiting through Canada for less than 48 hours on their way to another destination. Even if you remain within the airport’s international transit area, a visa might still be necessary depending on your nationality.
Canada’s immigration programs are designed to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and families who contribute to the country’s economic and cultural growth. The immigration process is primarily managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the provincial authorities under various nomination programs.
How Express Entry Works
Key Benefits
Eligibility
Applicants must demonstrate skills, education, and work experience that align with the province’s requirements. Each province operates its own streams, often linked with the Express Entry system for faster processing.
Notable PNP Streams
Benefits
Eligible Relatives Include:
Key Requirements
Sponsors must:
(a) Start-Up Visa Program
Designed for innovative entrepreneurs who secure funding or support from designated Canadian organizations (venture capital funds, angel investors, or business incubators).
Requirements:
(b) Self-Employed Persons Program
For individuals with relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics who can make a significant contribution to Canada’s cultural or sporting life.
(c) Provincial Entrepreneur Streams
Many provinces (such as British Columbia, Ontario, and Manitoba) operate entrepreneur and investor programs that require a minimum investment and business management experience.
Refugee and Asylum Pathways Include:
Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Grounds
The RNIP aims to attract skilled workers to smaller, less-populated communities across Canada. Applicants must receive a community recommendation and secure an eligible job offer. It focuses on fostering regional economic development and addressing local labour shortages.
Since Quebec manages its own immigration system, applicants intending to live there must apply through Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration (MIFI). Main streams include:
A Courtesy Visa is issued to foreign officials, diplomats, or their family members who are visiting Canada for official purposes but do not qualify for a diplomatic visa.
Canadian citizens adopting a child from abroad must apply for an Adoption Visa (or permanent residence for the child) before bringing them to Canada. This process ensures compliance with both Canadian immigration regulations and the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption.
The steps typically include:
The process of applying for a Canadian visa varies depending on the category, but the general steps are similar across most visa types.
1. Determine the Type of Visa
Before applying, identify which visa best suits your purpose — whether temporary, permanent, or specialized. Each type has different eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.
2. Check Eligibility Requirements
Verify that you meet the conditions outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Common eligibility factors include:
3. Gather Required Documents
Typical supporting documents include:
4. Submit the Application
Applications can be filed online through the IRCC portal or on paper at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC). Online applications are generally faster and easier to track. Ensure all documents are uploaded in the correct format and that payment is made electronically.
5. Pay the Visa Fees
Fees vary based on the visa category and applicant type. Payment must be made in Canadian dollars.
Common Visa Fees (as of 2025):
| Visa Type | Fee (CAD) |
| Visitor Visa (Single/Multiple Entry) | $100 |
| Super Visa | $100 |
| Study Permit | $150 |
| Work Permit | $155 |
| Open Work Permit Holder | $255 |
| Permanent Residence (Processing Fee) | $850 (plus $515 Right of PR Fee) |
| Biometrics (per person) | $85 |
| Biometrics (per family) | $170 |
6. Submit Biometrics
Applicants from certain countries must provide fingerprints and a photo at a designated Visa Application Centre (VAC). Biometrics are valid for 10 years and can be reused for future Canadian visa applications.
7. Attend an Interview (If Required)
In some cases, visa officers may request an interview to clarify details or verify documents. Bring all originals and supporting proof of funds or intent.
8. Wait for Processing
Processing times differ depending on visa category and applicant nationality.
Average 2025 timelines:
9. Decision and Passport Submission
Once a decision is made, successful applicants will be asked to submit their passport for visa stamping or receive an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) if applicable.
In case of refusal, a refusal letter will outline the reasons, and applicants can reapply after addressing those issues.
10. Arrive in Canada
Upon arrival, a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer verifies the visa and supporting documents. You may be asked about your travel purpose, financial means, and return arrangements.
Permanent residents will receive their PR Card by mail after landing.
Common reasons include:
Citizens of visa-exempt countries do not require a visitor visa to enter Canada for short stays (typically up to 6 months). However, they must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when arriving by air. The eTA is electronically linked to the passport and is valid for five years or until the passport expires.
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