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Canada Visa Guide (2026)
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for tourists, students, and workers from South Asia, Africa, and the Philippines. Most nationalities need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit — commonly called a "Canada visitor visa." This guide covers who needs a visa, what documents to prepare, fees, processing times, and how to apply.
Last updated: June 2026
Do You Need a Canada Visa?
Whether you need a visa depends on your passport. Canada uses two entry systems:
- Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): Required for nationals of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Philippines, China, and many others
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Required for visa-exempt nationalities flying into Canada (e.g. UK, Australia, most EU countries)
- No requirement: US citizens and permanent residents, Canadian passport holders
Check your exact requirement on the IRCC official eligibility tool.
Types of Canada Temporary Resident Visa
| Visa Type | Purpose | Max Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (TRV) | Tourism, visiting family, short business trips | 6 months per entry |
| Student Permit | Study at a DLI (Designated Learning Institution) | Duration of studies |
| Work Permit | Employment in Canada | Per job offer duration |
| Transit Visa | Passing through a Canadian airport | 48 hours |
| Super Visa | Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens/PR holders | Up to 5 years per entry |
Canada Visa Requirements — Overview
The core documents required for a Canada visitor visa application:
- Valid passport (must be valid for the duration of stay)
- Completed online application on IRCC portal
- Digital photograph meeting IRCC specifications
- Bank statements (last 3–6 months showing sufficient funds)
- Proof of employment, business, or enrollment
- Travel itinerary and accommodation proof
- Ties to home country (property, job, family)
- Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) — CAD $85 fee
See the full Canada visa requirements guide for a complete checklist.
Canada Visa Fees (2026)
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (single or multiple entry) | CAD $185 |
| Biometrics (individual) | CAD $85 |
| Biometrics (family group) | CAD $170 |
| eTA | CAD $7 |
| Student Permit | CAD $150 |
| Work Permit | CAD $155 |
All fees are non-refundable. See the full Canada visa fees guide.
Canada Visa Processing Time
Processing times vary by application type and where you apply from:
- Online application (from India): 14–60 days
- Paper application: 28+ days
- Student permit (online): 8–12 weeks
- Work permit (employer-specific): 2–27 weeks depending on LMIA
Check current official estimates on the IRCC processing times tool.
See the full Canada visa processing time guide.
How to Apply for Canada Visa
- Check if your nationality requires a TRV or eTA
- Create an account on the IRCC online portal (My Account)
- Complete the IMM 5257 application form online
- Upload all supporting documents
- Pay the application fee and biometrics fee online
- Book a biometrics appointment at a VAC (Visa Application Centre)
- Wait for processing — track status on IRCC portal
- Receive a Visitor Visa (counterfoil in passport) or eTA confirmation
See the full step-by-step Canada visa application guide.
Canada Visa by Country
Requirements, fees, VAC locations, and processing times differ by country. Find your country-specific guide below:
- Canada Visa from India — VAC locations, INR fees, processing times, India-specific requirements
Express Entry and Permanent Residency
Canada's Express Entry system manages applications for permanent residency through three programs: Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Federal Skilled Trades (FST), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Points are awarded via the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Candidates above the cutoff receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Official References
Frequently Asked Questions
Does India need a visa for Canada?
Yes. Indian passport holders must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) before travelling to Canada. There is no visa on arrival for Indian citizens.
How much does a Canada visa cost?
A Canada visitor visa costs CAD $185 (same for single or multiple entry). Add CAD $85 for biometrics if you are giving them for the first time or they have expired. Total is approximately CAD $270.
How long does Canada visa processing take?
Online applications from India typically take 14–60 days. Check current estimates on the IRCC processing times tool before applying.
Can I get a Canada visa for multiple entries?
Yes. Canada typically issues multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years or one month before your passport expires (whichever is earlier). Each entry allows a stay of up to 6 months.
What is biometrics and do I need to give it?
Biometrics means fingerprints and a photo taken at a Visa Application Centre. Most applicants aged 14–79 must give biometrics. Once given, they are valid for 10 years. The fee is CAD $85 per person.