Visitor Visa / eTA
Visit Canada temporarily for tourism, family visits, or short business trips.
Prepared under the legal authority of Atty. George M. Garvida, Barrister & Solicitor
What This Pathway Is
Most people who want to visit Canada need either a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), depending on nationality. A visitor record may be issued at the border or through an extension application if you need to stay longer than initially authorized.
You must show that your visit is temporary, that you have ties to your home country, and that you can support yourself financially during your stay. Visiting does not give you the right to work or study unless you obtain the correct permit.
Visitor visa processing times vary by country. An eTA for visa-exempt travellers is usually approved quickly online. Extensions from inside Canada must be applied for before your current status expires.
Are You Likely Qualified?
This is a general guide, not a guarantee of eligibility. Many factors affect actual qualification — the best way to know for sure is to start an assessment or book a free consultation with our team.
- You have a valid passport and meet basic admissibility requirements.
- You can show the purpose of your visit (tourism, family, business meeting, etc.) with supporting details.
- You have strong ties to your home country (employment, property, family) suggesting you will return.
- You can demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your trip without working illegally in Canada.
- You understand a visitor visa or eTA does not allow you to work or study without a separate permit.
Based on what you've read, what would you like to do?