Canadian Visitor Visas 2025
Complete guide to visiting Canada including Temporary Resident Visas (TRV), Super Visa for parents and grandparents, and business visitor requirements.
Types of Canadian Visitor Visas
Different visa types for different purposes and durations of stay
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
Standard visitor visa for tourism, visiting family/friends, or business purposes. Valid for up to 6 months per visit.
Key Requirements:
- Valid passport from visa-required country
- Proof of financial support
- Ties to home country
- Purpose of visit documentation
Visa Validity:
Up to 10 years (multiple entry)
Super Visa
Special multi-entry visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Allows longer stays.
Key Requirements:
- Child/grandchild is Canadian citizen or PR
- Letter of invitation from child/grandchild
- Proof of relationship
- Medical insurance ($100,000 minimum)
- Medical exam
Visa Validity:
Up to 10 years
Business Visitor
For international business activities like meetings, conferences, trade shows, or exploring business opportunities.
Key Requirements:
- Business purpose documentation
- Letter from Canadian business partner
- Proof of business relationship
- Financial support for visit
Visa Validity:
Up to 10 years
Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Canada to reach another destination. Required for certain nationalities even for airport transit.
Key Requirements:
- Confirmed onward travel ticket
- Valid visa for destination country
- Transit through Canada within 48 hours
- No intention to leave airport (for some)
Visa Validity:
Single or double entry
Super Visa Detailed Requirements
Comprehensive requirements for parents and grandparents Super Visa
Sponsor Requirements (Child/Grandchild)
- Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Meet minimum income threshold (LICO + 30%)
- Provide letter of invitation
- Proof of relationship to applicant
Applicant Requirements
- Parent or grandparent of Canadian citizen/PR
- Valid medical insurance ($100,000 minimum)
- Complete medical examination
- Demonstrate ties to home country
Financial Requirements
- Sponsor meets income requirements for family size
- Medical insurance valid for 1 year minimum
- Coverage from Canadian insurance company
- Proof of payment for insurance premium
Super Visa vs Parent/Grandparent Sponsorship
The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for up to 2 years at a time, while sponsorship leads to permanent residence but has longer processing times and requires selection in the annual lottery.
- • Processing: 2-3 months
- • Stay: Up to 2 years per visit
- • Status: Temporary visitor
- • Processing: 20-24 months
- • Stay: Permanent residence
- • Status: Permanent resident
Current Processing Times by Country
Average processing times for visitor visa applications from major countries
| Country | TRV Processing | Super Visa Processing |
|---|---|---|
| India | 21 days | 60 days |
| China | 15 days | 45 days |
| Philippines | 18 days | 50 days |
| Nigeria | 25 days | 70 days |
| Morocco | 12 days | 40 days |
| Algeria | 20 days | 55 days |
Tips for Successful Visitor Visa Applications
Key strategies to improve your chances of visitor visa approval
Demonstrate Strong Ties to Home Country
Show employment, property ownership, family responsibilities, or other commitments that ensure your return.
Examples of Supporting Documents:
- Employment letter with approved leave
- Property ownership documents
- Family responsibilities (caring for elderly parents)
Provide Comprehensive Financial Documentation
Show sufficient funds to cover your stay and return travel, with consistent banking history.
Examples of Supporting Documents:
- Bank statements (6 months)
- Employment income verification
- Sponsor's financial support letter
Clear Purpose of Visit
Clearly explain why you want to visit Canada, your planned activities, and duration of stay.
Examples of Supporting Documents:
- Detailed itinerary with dates
- Hotel reservations or accommodation plans
- Return flight booking
Find Out If You Qualify
Get instant results with our comprehensive eligibility assessment tool. Find out which immigration programs you qualify for and get a personalized roadmap to Canada.
✓ Instant results ✓ No registration ✓ RCIC reviewed
Visitor Visa FAQ
Do I need a visitor visa to visit Canada?
It depends on your nationality. Citizens of visa-exempt countries only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for air travel. Citizens of visa-required countries need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). Check the IRCC website to determine if your country requires a visa to visit Canada.
How much money do I need to show for a visitor visa?
There's no fixed amount, but you should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your stay and return travel. Generally, budget $100-150 CAD per day for accommodation, meals, and activities. For a 2-week visit, show $2,000-3,000 CAD plus airfare costs. If someone in Canada is supporting you financially, they should provide a letter of financial support.
Can I extend my stay as a visitor in Canada?
Yes, you can apply to extend your stay as a visitor before your current status expires. You should apply at least 30 days before your authorized stay ends. Extensions are typically granted for up to 6 months at a time. You must continue to meet visitor requirements and demonstrate that you will leave Canada when your extended stay expires.
What is the difference between single and multiple entry visas?
A single entry visa allows you to enter Canada once. Once you leave Canada, the visa becomes invalid even if it hasn't expired. A multiple entry visa allows you to enter and leave Canada multiple times until the visa expires (up to 10 years). Most visitor visas issued today are multiple entry visas, but the decision depends on your specific circumstances.
Can I work or study while visiting Canada?
Generally, no. Visitor status does not allow you to work or study in Canada. However, there are some exceptions: you can take short courses or programs that are 6 months or less without a study permit, and you cannot work unless you have a valid work permit. If you want to work or study, you must apply for the appropriate permit before starting these activities.
Ready to Visit Canada?
Get expert guidance on visitor visa applications, documentation requirements, and approval strategies.
Expert RCIC guidance • All visa types • Document preparation • High approval rates