Canada is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, but it can be hard to visit if you don’t know where to start, All You Need to Know About Canada Entry Requirements. Luckily, this guide on Canada entry requirements will help you determine your eligibility and what you need to do to get through customs and into the country legally.
From there, you can enjoy everything Canada has to offer!
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Visa Free
Canada is a great destination for most international travelers. Visitors from around 190 countries are permitted to enter Canada visa-free, including Americans.
However, if you’re from a country that requires visas prior to travel, make sure you understand Canada entry requirements before attempting your crossing! This guide will help you ensure an effortless and stress-free trip. We’ll cover all things visas in Canada as well as tips on how to apply for one.
Visa Required
Most international travelers entering Canada must have a valid passport or document that shows their identity and nationality. To visit Canada for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives (B-visitor status), most international travelers need a passport that is valid for at least six months from date of entry into Canada.
If you don’t have a valid passport or travel document, apply for one at your nearest Canadian government office abroad before leaving home. If your country participates in visa waiver agreements with Canada, it’s possible to enter Canada as long as you have an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
eTAs are free and don’t require visits to Canadian consulates abroad. An eTA will be required if you plan on traveling to Canada by air starting on March 15, 2016.
Visitor Visa
Visitors Visa can be used if you wish to visit Canada for leisure, business, or medical reasons. To apply for a visitor visa you must be in good health and have sufficient funds in your bank account.
You must also be able to prove that you plan on leaving Canada after your trip. If you are planning on working while visiting Canada, then you will need a work permit.
Study Permit
Citizens of select countries can visit Canada for up to six months without a visa. If you’re a citizen of a country that does not participate in the program, you will need to apply for a study permit in order to enter Canada. Once approved, your permit will be valid for between three and five years, depending on which province or territory you are studying in.
For example, if you plan on studying in Quebec or British Columbia (the two most popular provinces for study abroad students), your permit will last for three years; if you’re planning on studying in Ontario, it’ll last five years. Permits can also be extended while students are already living in Canada.
Work Permit
To live and work in Canada, you’ll need a valid Canadian work permit. Canadians are often surprised by what constitutes a valid work permit; indeed, many newcomers don’t understand how complicated Canada entry requirements can be.
Long Term Stay (Canada PR)
If you are planning a long-term stay in Canada, you may be interested in applying for permanent residency. Permanent residency or Canadian citizenship can provide many benefits including access to certain employment opportunities, international travel without visas and being able to sponsor members of your family.
Whether you’re a skilled worker or entrepreneur planning on spending several years in Canada, there are different requirements and paths available to apply for PR status.
Start by learning more about living, working and traveling in Canada as a temporary resident.