Overview 

To visit Canada, foreign nationals will need to meet some basic requirements, such as:

• have a valid travel document (e.g., passport)
• be in good health,
• have no criminal or immigration-related convictions,
• convince an immigration officer that they have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take them back to their home country,
• convince an immigration officer that they will leave Canada at the end of their visit, and
• have enough money for their stay.

The following may also be required:

• medical exam and
• letter of invitation from someone who lives in Canada.

Entry Documents

In addition to the basic requirements, most visitors need a valid entry document. 
 

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

As of March 15, 2016, foreign nationals travelling with passports from eTA-required countries who enter Canada by air will need an eTA.  The authorization is electronically linked to their passport and is valid for five years or until their passport expires, whichever comes first.

Visitor Visa

Travellers with passports from visa-required countries and territories need a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) to enter Canada.  A visa is an official document that is inserted inside a passport giving permission for visitors to come to Canada.

There are two types of conditions on a visa:

• Single Entry Visa:  allows a Foreign National to enter Canada only once;
• Multiple Entry Visa: allows a Foreign National multiple entries into Canada, usually for six months at a time, without having to reapply.  It is valid for up to 10 years, or one month before the passport expires, whichever comes first.

For further information regarding the procedures for applying for a temporary resident permit, please contact our office.