Visit Canada

Explore Canada

Every year, more than 35 million people visit Canada to enjoy the many opportunities our country has to offer, including visiting family and friends.

Biometric Identity Screening

Starting in 2013, CIC plans to require nationals of 29 countries and 1 territory to appear in person to have their fingerprints and photograph taken when they apply for a temporary resident visa, study or work permit.

If you want to visit Canada, you must first find out if you need a visitor (temporary resident) visa.

If you want to travel to Canada for reasons other than business or pleasure, you must apply for a visa in the right category, such as study or temporary work.

Visit as a tourist

You can visit Canada as a tourist to enjoy the many opportunities our country has to offer, including visiting family and friends.

Visit your children or grandchildren

Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents can apply for the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa to visit Canada for up to two years without the need to renew their status.

Visit on business

You can visit Canada on business to look for opportunities, to invest or to advance existing business relationships.

Extend your stay

To extend your stay in Canada, you should apply 30 days before your status expires.

Travel through Canada without visiting

If you are from a country or territory whose citizens require a visa to enter Canada and you are travelling through Canada without stopping or visiting, you will need a transit visa. However, you may not need a transit visa if you are travelling to or from the United States. There is no fee for a transit visa. See Transit Without Visa Program for details.

Carry proper identification

Some people do not require a visa to enter Canada, but need specific documentation to return to their home country. Make sure you carry proper identification for yourself and any children travelling with you. Visit the Canada Border Services Agency website for more information.