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Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada - not both. Some people may only need their valid passport. Answer a few questions to see what's right for you.

See all entry requirements by country/territory

You can find the country code on your passport. Be careful when you select your country. Some countries have multiple options and codes are quite similar.

Answer yes if you’re a citizen of Canada and another country.

Look on the front cover of your passport for the symbol of a rectangle with a circle in the middle. If you see this symbol, you have an electronic passport.

Answer: You should already have a valid visitor visa

We automatically issued a  visitor visa  to you when we approved your first study or work permit.

If you leave and return to Canada,  you must travel with

• your valid study or work permit
• If you don’t have a valid visa when you check-in for a flight, it may result in travel delays (or a missed flight).
• your valid passport

Exception : If you return directly from a visit to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon only, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

If your visa has expired or was only valid for a single entry to Canada

You need to apply for a new visitor visa (opens in a new tab)    or an eTA .

A visitor visa

• costs CAN$100
• is valid for up to 10 years
• can be used at any port of entry
• costs CAN$7
• is valid for up to 5 years
• is electronically linked to your passport
• is only valid when flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport

Answer: You need a visitor visa

For visits of up to 6 months for most purposes. Cost: CAN $100

Get details about visitor visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

For visits of up to 6 months or to transit via a Canadian airport. Cost: CAN $7

Get details about eTA Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid Canadian passport

You need a  valid Canadian passport  to travel to Canada by air (board your flight).

Exception: If you’re an American-Canadian dual citizen with a valid U.S. passport, you don’t need a Canadian passport to fly to Canada. However, you still need to  carry proper identification Opens in a new tab  and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada Opens in a new tab .

Get details about travelling as a dual Canadian citizen Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid passport or travel document to travel to Canada by car, train, bus or boat

If you decide to fly to a Canadian airport instead, you'll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Learn about documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need official proof of status in the U.S.

Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. must present these documents for all methods of travel to Canada:

• a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document ) and
• a valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States)

Answer: You need a transit visa 

To connect between 2 international flights, in less than 48 hours. Cost: Free

Note: If you have more than 48 hours between international flights OR if you decide to visit Canada, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about transit visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You can apply for a parent and grandparent super visa to visit for more than 6 months

• The super visa is for visits of 5 years at a time .
• a letter from your child or grandchild with a promise to financially support you for the duration of your visit in Canada.
• More information on approved insurance providers outside of Canada will be available in the coming months.
• be valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry to Canada
• provide at least $100,000 in emergency coverage.
• You must apply for a super visa from outside Canada.
• Cost: CAN $100

Note : If you don't meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about super visa Opens in a new tab

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA). An eTA allows for visits of up to 6 months.

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with a valid identity document. Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with

• a valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document Opens in a new tab ) and
• official proof of lawful permanent resident status in the U.S., such as a green card

Answer: You need a valid identity document

Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

Learn about the documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for a visitor visa.

When you travel to Canada, bring your

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved, if you received one
• valid passport that has your visitor visa stuck to one of its pages

Learn about studying in Canada Opens in a new tab

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first study or work permit.

You need to  apply for a new visa (opens in a new tab)   .

• A visa costs CAN$100.
• It’s valid for up to 10 years.

If your study or work permit will expire soon, you must extend it before you can apply for a new visitor visa.

You need a visitor visa to leave and return to Canada.  Apply for your visa before you leave.

You can apply for a visitor visa from inside Canada if you meet all the conditions below:

• you’re already in Canada
• you hold a valid study or work permit
• you want to  leave and return to Canada  in the near future
• your existing  visitor visa Opens in a new tab  is expired or was valid for only one entry

Exception : If you return  directly  from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing times  don’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa Opens in a new tab

You need a  visitor visa  to travel to Canada.

A visitor visa:

• is a sticker we put in your passport

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a study permit

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a study permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa for you

• letter of introduction that says your work permit application is approved, if you received one

Learn about working in Canada Opens in a new tab

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first work permit.

Answer: You should already have a valid eTA

We automatically issued an eTA (electronic travel authorization) to you when we approved your first study or work permit.

• the passport you used to apply for your eTA

If you don’t have a valid eTA

You can apply for an  eTA  if you travel to Canada  by air only .

Most applicants get their eTA approval within minutes (via email). However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

Apply for an eTA (opens in a new tab)  

If your travel plans change

You need a  visitor visa  (not an eTA) if you decide to  get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat  instead.

Apply for a visitor visa (opens in a new tab)  

Answer: You need to apply for a visitor visa

We automatically issued you an electronic travel authorization (eTA) when we approved your first study or work permit. However, an eTA can only be used to travel to Canada by air .

To come to Canada by car, bus, train or boat

You need to apply for a visitor visa if you plan to come to Canada by car, bus, train or boat.

• is an official document we stick in your passport

You may need to  give fingerprints and a photo (biometrics)  with your visitor visa application. Processing times  don’t include  the time needed for requesting and giving biometrics. Processing times vary by country.

If your eTA is no longer valid and you decide to fly to Canada, you’ll need to  answer the questions again   to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a work permit

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a work permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA)

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for an eTA.

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Answer: You need an eTA to leave and return to Canada

Your study permit lets you study in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

What you need depends on your travel plans.

If you re-enter by a Canadian airport (fly back to Canada)

You must have:

• the passport that’s linked to a valid eTA and
• your valid study permit
• costs CAN $7

If you don’t have an eTA or yours has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA.

Apply for an eTA Opens in a new tab

If you re-enter Canada by car, boat, bus or train

• a valid passport and

Answer: If you fly to a Canadian airport, you need an eTA

Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes. However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you drive or arrive by train, bus or boat

You just need a  valid passport or travel document Opens in a new tab  to get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat.

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for you

• valid passport that you used to apply for your work permit

Your work permit lets you work in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

• your valid work permit

If you received your current work permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

• your valid work or study permit

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work or study permit

When you travel to Canada, you must bring your:

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

If you’re driving or arriving by train, bus, or boat.

You just need to  bring the right travel documents Opens in a new tab .

If you fly to or transit through a Canadian airport

You just need to travel with your valid U.S. passport if you fly or transit through a Canadian airport.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit
• valid work or study permit

Answer: Your permit is not an eTA or a visa

When you extend your study permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• the passport that’s linked to your valid eTA  and
• a valid visitor and

Apply for visitor visa Opens in a new tab

When you extend your work permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• a valid visitor visa and

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa  you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit and
• official proof of U.S. lawful permanent resident status

Answer: You need valid proof of lawful permanent resident status of the U.S. to leave and return to Canada

• valid study permit,
• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit, and
• valid passport or travel document and
• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit and
• valid work permit
• valid work permit,

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa , you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If you transit through Canada to or from the United States

You  may  be able to  transit through Canada without a visa or eTA if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

You need an official proof of status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., such as one of the following:

• valid permanent resident card (Form I-551)
• foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication [ADIT] stamp)
• foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation (“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year”) on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status)
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card [Green Card])
• valid re-entry permit (Form I-327)
• Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo

Important note:

This tool provides information only. It was created to assist you as you decide what travel document you may need to travel to Canada. This tool may not provide information on all travel documents or your particular situation. If you choose to apply, we will assess your application in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and its related Regulations. Read our complete terms and conditions (opens in a new tab) .

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Canadianvisa.org

We Make Immigration Simple

2021-12-05T08:44:33

2023-06-29T03:01:00

If you'd like to travel to Canada, you'll need a Canada Visitor Visa, or Canadian Tourist Visa. Find out more about your visa options and the visa requirements.

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• Canada Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa)
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Updated: June 29th, 2023

Whether you're planning to move to Canada and want to see what it's like, visit your Canadian family or are purely interested in holidaying in the Great White North, you will likely need a Canadian visitor visa or a tourist visa to enter Canada. There are two types of tourist visas to Canada - Single entry and multiple entry visitor visas. Each of these has its own Canada tourist visa requirements.

These requirements are based on the intention of your stay, your country of origin, the length of your planned visit and links to your home country, amongst many others. To help figure out what you need to do to ensure you get your tourist visa, we've created a Canada visitor visa checklist. This way, you can ensure you don't leave anything out of your visa application. However, first, you must find out if you need a visa or just an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) .

Do I Need a Canada Visitor Visa (Also Known as Canada Tourist Visa) Tourist Visa to Canada?

Canada has a list of countries that are considered visa-exempt. You do not need a visitor visa if you are from one of the following countries. Instead, you will need an Electronic eTA Canada. The visa-exempt countries are as follows:

Learn more about eTA Canada .

What Are the Two Types of Canada Visitor Visa?

Each Canadian tourist visa has its own expressed purpose and uses.

Multiple-entry Visa

This visa will let you enter Canada for multiple periods of up to 6 months over ten years or when your passport next expires. But, once your passport expires, you can apply for a new Canada visitor visa.

Single-entry Visa

This lets you travel to Canada only one time, but this is usually under specific circumstances such as:

• The purpose of your entry to Canada is limited to an official visit
• You're eligible for a fee exemption
• You're taking part in a special Canadian event
• It's in keeping with the approved country procedures and guidelines

Once you leave Canada, you must apply for another visa to return.

Now that you know the types of visas, let's dive into what exactly makes a visitor visa applicant eligible.

Updated Canadian Travel Requirements

While the visa types differ, the basic requirements of each visa remain essentially the same. Therefore, before you begin your application process, you must fulfill all necessary criteria via this Canada visitor visa checklist. This is as follows. You must:

• Be in good health
• Have a valid travel document, such as a passport
• Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• In particular, if you've been convicted of any criminal activity, human rights violations or organized crime, you will likely be rejected for any Canadian visa.
• Have clear ties to your home country
• Prove you will leave Canada once you're completed your visit
• Have enough funds to cover your expenses. This amount depends on your accommodation plans and whether or not you will need to pay for your accommodation (like with a hotel or Airbnb)

If you're unsure how to fulfil all of the Canadian visitor visa requirements or how to get your required documents, click the button below to talk to a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). RCICs can give you a full eligibility assessment and ensure you take every step of your application process correctly.

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants provide expert knowledge concerning all the necessary documents and requirements for a Canada Visitor Visa, as well as programs beyond temporary visas and pave the way to Canadian permanent residency.

What Documents Are Required For a Canada Visitor Visa?

Before you begin your visitor visa application process, you will need the following documentation:

• Travel history (Optional)
• Basic Itinerary (Optional)
• Bank Statement (Optional)
• Travel document (Optional)
• Use of a representative form (IMM 5476) if you've used a representative
• Authority to release personal information to a designated individual form  - IMM 5475 (Optional)
• Family information form(IMM 5645)
• This is particularly if you have children under 18

Documents required for minors:

Please note that minor children (children under 18 years old) will be required to have the same document as adult travellers. This is to ensure the safety of minors, and those who do not have the necessary documents will be scrutinized closely.

Minor's Travelling Alone

Children who are travelling to Canada alone will need the following documents:

• Own Passport
• Copy of birth certificate
• Letter of authorization signed by both parents/legal guardians with contact information (in English or French if possible)

Minor's Travelling With One Parent or Guardian

Children who are traveling to Canada with one parent or legal guardian will require the following documents:

• Child's passport
• Letter of authorization signed by the parent not accompanying the child with contact details (in English or French if possible)

Parents that are Separated, Divorced, or Have Shared Custody

• Copies of legal custody documents
• Letter of authorization from the other parent/guardian

Parents that are Separated or Divorced and One Parent Has Sole Custody

• Letter of authorization signed by that parent
• Custody decree

One of the Parents is Deceased

• Copy of death certificate

Adoptive Parents or Legal Guardian

• Copy of guardianship/adoption papers

Minor Travelling to Canada With Anyone Other Than Parents or Legal Guardian

• Written consent from parents or guardians to supervise the child (include contact details of parents/guardians)
• Copy of parents' or legal guardian's signed passports or national identity cards

How do I Apply For Visitor Visa Canada?

Once you've made sure you fulfill all criteria, collected all of the required documents and ensured you have every visa application form, you can apply for visitor visa Canada online via the government website. You do this in 3 simple steps:

Step 1: Create an Account

You create an account on the government's official website . In doing this, you will submit certain details, such as your reason for going to Canada, which will help the government of Canada determine which application process you must undertake.

Step 2: Upload Your Documents

At this point, you upload all documents specified above to prove the details you stated when you created your account.

Step 3: Pay the Application Processing Fee

Like with every visa, the visitor visa has certain processing costs. They are as follows:

You may submit your application for processing after completing these three steps. Once your application is uploaded, you may be asked to present your biometrics. Here's a handy guide for a full breakdown of what biometrics for Canada visas are and how to submit them.

After You Apply

If your application is successful, you will receive your tourist visa once your application is processed. The Canada visitor visa processing time varies from country to country and whether or not you're applying from inside or outside of Canada. For example, the Canada visitor visa processing time can be approximately four months for a person applying from India.

Why Travel to Canada

The Great White North is a top travel destination with many unique offerings to offer visitors. Here are some of the reasons you should consider a visit.

Canada is a destination of great diversity. It is a melting pot where all cultures are celebrated, making it ideal for immigrants and tourists. But that's not where the diversity ends. As the world's second-largest country it has a vast range of climates, landscapes, cities and rural settings.

Charming in Every Season

While many Canadians may need to escape their icy winters, the country is considered a winter wonderland by winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking the novelty of snow-capped just about everything.

But it's not the winter season that is magical. There's the charm of the fall's rust-coloured leaf aesthetic, the beautiful blooming of tulips and cherry blossoms in the spring and the impressive variety of summer activities during the summer months. It has to be said, though, there is no shortage of splendour in the Great White North, regardless of the season you choose to wander through it.

The Whole Family Will Love it!

With abundant magnificent outdoor settings , Canada is one of the most family-friendly countries to visit. You and your loved ones can enjoy the snow together, explore the great lakes, hike in the Canadian Rockies, or explore the country's amazing national parks and museums. There is no shortage of fun things to do as a family.

Endless Opportunities for Adventure

Canada is the adventurer's dream destination. For the thrill-seekers, there's skiing, snowboarding and some of the most intense hiking and climbing trails to conquer, golfing, fishing, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing and fishing.

Entertainment

There's no shortage of events and festivals in the land of the maple leaf. So no matter the season, you'll find something to attend. Look out for:

• The Celtic Colours International Festival, Nova Scotia
• The Celebration of Light, Vancouver
• The Calgary Stampede
• The Edmonton Folk Music Festival
• The Toronto International Film Festival
• The Canadian Tulip Festival, Ottawa
• The Quebec Winter Carnival, Quebec City

Travel to Canada Made Simple

While a tourist visa isn't the most complex visa to get for Canada, you still need to submit the correct documents timely, ensure that the evidence of your connection to your home country is submitted, and ensure you fulfill all of the Canada Visitor visa requirements. Despite how extensive the Canada visitor visa checklist is, submitting only those documents on the IRCC checklist isn't enough to make your case that you will return to your home country after your visit. To ensure you have everything you need for your trip to Canada, click the button below to speak to an RCIC and ensure everything happens smoothly.

Is Canada's Visitor Visa Currently Open?

The Canada Visitor Visa has been open for all vaccinated tourists since September 7, 2021. However, On October 1, 2022, all COVID-19 border requirements, including vaccination, use of ArriveCAN, testing and quarantine or isolation requirements, ended for all travellers entering the country.

How Can I Extend My Stay in Canada After My Visitor Visa Expires?

If you want to prolong your stay in Canada after six months, you can apply for a visitor record, giving you a new expiry date. You must apply at least 30 days before your Canadian visitor visa expires. You apply online on the Canadian government website.

What Must do if I Have COVID-19 Symptoms

You should not travel to Canada, should you have COVID-19 symptoms. If COVID-19 symptoms appear en route to Canada or as you arrive:

• You must inform flight attendants, cruise staff or a border official as soon as you arrive
• You'll possibly be referred to a Quarantine Officer to have your health assessed
• Do not use public transport
• Take a   at what COVID-19 requirements for when you test positive are for the province your province or territory you are entering.

Is a Visitor or Tourist Visa the Same as a Temporary Resident Visa?

Yes. A temporary resident visa is another name for a visitor or tourist visa. However, this is different from a Working Holiday Visa, which is predicated on you working in Canada. If this sounds like something you would be into, consider the Canadian Working Holiday visa.

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Visiting Canada

Updated on September 9, 2024

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18 Best Places to Visit in Canada

Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023

Author Lana Law has lived in British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba, and currently resides in Ontario.

Canada's cities and towns offer travelers a diverse choice of experiences, from chic, cosmopolitan centers to mountain resorts and maritime cities. Determining the best places to visit may depend on your interests and the type of trip you're hoping to create.

In the heart of the country is Toronto, Canada's biggest city and the highlight of Canada's arts and cultural scene. Nearby, Niagara Falls is a must-see attraction for visitors to Canada that never disappoints. In the neighboring French-speaking province of Québec, Montreal is known for fashion, culture, and history.

In the West , Vancouver and Victoria offer two very different perspectives on West Coast cities, but each has something unique to offer. The mountain towns of Whistler and Banff are places to immerse yourself in beautiful mountain scenery and enjoy a little of the great outdoors.

Eastern Canada has a culture all of its own, with a rich maritime heritage and friendly people. And scattered throughout the country are other popular cities and lesser-known gems to explore. For ideas to help plan your Canada itinerary , see our list of the best places to visit in Canada.

Niagara Falls

Banff national park, québec city, charlottetown & prince edward island, map of places to visit in canada.

Highlights : Unlimited outdoor activities, amazing natural beauty, Stanley Park, Granville Island

For beauty, climate, a fun atmosphere, and plenty of things to do, you can't go wrong planning a trip to Vancouver . Set on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and backed by snow-capped mountains, this is an active city, where locals enjoy the outdoors year-round.

Sunbathers can bask on the beaches in summer, and skiers can hit the nearby ski resorts in winter. At any time of year, you can walk the seawall or stroll through the towering trees in Stanley Park , enjoy fine dining or a casual meal while watching the sunset, or find fabulous shopping, from the markets of Granville Island to the high-end shops in the city center.

If you are spending more than a couple of days in the city and looking for some interesting outings, take a day trip from Vancouver to some of the nearby hotspots such as Whistler , Victoria , or some of the small towns in the mountains or Fraser Valley.

Highlights : One of the world's natural wonders, boat tours, lookout at the edge of the falls

Canada's most famous natural attraction, the majestic Niagara Falls has been drawing sightseers almost since its discovery. The great wall of water pounding over the falls is an amazing sight, and the view and access afforded visitors are astounding. You can literally walk up to the edge of the falls, separated only by a cast iron railing, and see the water as it disappears over the crest.

In 2021, the Niagara Parks Commission opened the 115-year-old Canadian Niagara Power Company generating station. After years of painstaking renovations and rehabilitation, this fascinating building displays its old generators and electrical equipment. New in 2023, visitors can now descend beneath the building and walk through former water tunnels, ending up at the river's edge below the falls.

The city that has developed here, also named Niagara Falls, has been greatly influenced by the people and atmosphere the falls have created. Stuntmen and daredevils have been tempting their fate on the falls throughout the decades, and as a result, a carnival-style atmosphere has come to define this unique city. Just a short drive from Toronto , Niagara Falls is easy to reach, and the city is a fun place to spend a day or two.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada

Highlights : Dynamic downtown with great dining, views from the CN Tower, waterfront trails

As Canada's largest city, Toronto is the country's cultural hot spot, with ballet, opera, symphony, and Broadway shows. It's also home to the landmark CN Tower . Add extraordinary shopping, fine dining, and fantastic museums, and there is no end to the entertainment.

In recent years, Toronto's waterfront has experienced ongoing development and now boasts beautiful walking areas, restaurants, and in summer, outdoor concerts and cultural performances.

Just outside the city center, in either direction from downtown, are beautiful beaches , perfect on hot summer days. In winter, a public skating rink springs to life outside city hall, and unique winter events, including the popular Winterlicious add to the fun. You can find ski resorts near Toronto as well.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Toronto

Highlights : Historical old town area, waterfront park, fantastic dining, French vibe

Montreal is a unique city, with a beautiful old historic district dating back to the 1600s and a modern city center with extensive underground shopping. Old Montreal is the main tourist hub, with cobbled streets and fantastic old buildings, a perfect place to lose yourself as you wander up and down the historical streets. In and around Montreal are a fine assortment of wonderful parks and beaches .

Montreal is also home to a large number of fashion designers, and high-end boutiques line the historic streets, along with quaint hotels and restaurants. Located in the French-speaking province of Québec , Montreal has its own cultural identity, but English-speaking visitors will have no trouble communicating with anyone in the tourist industry.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Montreal

Highlights : Incredible alpine scenery, glaciers, Lake Louise, skiing, and historic hotels

The charming mountain town of Banff, in the stunning Banff National Park, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the Rocky Mountains and see some of the most beautiful scenery in Canada. This is undeniably a tourist town, catering to international travelers from all over the globe.

In summer, the turquoise lakes, including Lake Louise and Moraine Lake , set below glacier-capped mountains are a glorious sight. One of the best ways to experience the landscape is to drive the Icefields Parkway, which runs through the park to Jasper National Park. For those looking for a bit more adventure and exercise, consider tackling one of Banff's best hiking trails . These classic routes take you to some of the most impressive sights in the park.

In winter, skiers and boarders descend on the area to enjoy the slopes of Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village Ski Resort , two of Canada's best ski resorts .

Consider staying in Banff at the luxurious and historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel , or perhaps choose another one of the best resorts in Banff. That way you don't even need to leave town to enjoy a gondola ride to the top of a mountain for dinner, soak in a hot springs-fed pool, find fabulous shopping, discover lovely walking trails, and possibly see elk and woodland caribou that frequently make their way into town.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Banff National Park
• Best Campgrounds in Banff National Park

Highlights : Historic city with colorful buildings, friendly locals, and views from Signal Hill that are not to be missed

In Canada's far eastern province of Newfoundland and Labrador is the historic and friendly city of St. John's. This is the main gateway for air travelers to the island of Newfoundland, but many people come simply to enjoy the city.

Colorful buildings line the sloping streets that run along hills, with views out over the harbor. The city also has numerous historic sites and attractions, including and Signal Hill , George Street , but the real appeal is the vibrant atmosphere, the people, and the maritime culture that makes this city so unique from mainland Canada.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. John's, Newfoundland

Highlights : Parliament Hill, winter and summer festivals, historic 19th-century Rideau Canal

As Canada's national capital city, Ottawa is home to some outstanding national museums and historic sites, as well as Parliament Hill , and it enjoys a beautiful setting along the Rideau Canal . It is also a small city, making it easy to navigate and fun to explore.

Summer is a wonderful time to visit, with a whole host of events held throughout the season, including the Tulip Festival in spring and the always lavish Canada Day Celebrations on July 1st.

In winter, when the weather is cold enough, the canal transforms into a 7.8-kilometer-long skating rink and in February, the annual Winterlude celebrations draw huge crowds. There is no bad time to visit Ottawa, and it is only a few hours by car or train from Toronto.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ottawa

Highlights : Beautiful harbor, mountain views, beaches, hiking and walking trails

British Columbia's beautiful capital city Victoria, has a quaint, small-town atmosphere, perhaps due to its island location. Set at the southern tip of Vancouver Island , the city has a mild year-round climate, with wet mild winters and warm, glorious summers. Victoria is one of the warmest places in Canada in winter , attracting Canadians from colder parts of the country from late fall until spring.

Views around the city are stunning in every direction, looking out over the harbor, south over the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Washington State, or across to the mountains on mainland British Columbia .

Most of the tourist activity is focused around Victoria's Inner Harbour , where the Parliament Buildings and the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel are located. A stroll along the waterfront on a sunny day is gorgeous. Just outside the city center are beaches and lovely coastal areas , as well as parks and hiking trails .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Victoria, British Columbia

Halifax : Friendly locals, 19th-century architecture, and stunning views from the Citadel

Halifax is a great city for anyone looking for an introduction to Canada's Maritime Provinces. The Halifax waterfront is the main tourist hub in the city, particularly during the summer months, with a few historic buildings and plenty of activity. Overlooking the city is the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site , one of the city's main attractions.

Outside the city are a number of small coastal villages that offer a good glimpse of life in the Maritimes. One of the most famous villages is Peggy's Cove , home to the most photographed lighthouse in the Maritimes. A little further afield are Lunenburg and Mahone Bay , also well worth a visit. Taking a day trip from Halifax is highly recommended.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Halifax

Highlights : Beautifully restored 17th-century architecture in the Old Town, winter fun at the Carnival de Québec in February

Like Montreal, Québec City is loaded with history and located in the French-speaking province of Québec. This is the provincial capital and a city with a history dating back to the early 1600s. The old buildings and curving cobbled streets make this one of Canada's most charming capital cities.

One-third the size of Montreal, Québec City is also relatively small and easy to navigate. While summer is the busy season, the famous winter carnival, the Carnival de Québec attracts huge crowds and is the city's most well-known event.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Québec City

Highlights : Klondike gold rush history, northern lights in season

A visit to Whitehorse offers a chance to see life in Canada's far north. This is the capital of the Yukon and also a gateway to areas farther north, including Alaska and the beautiful Nahanni National Park .

The city's history dates back to the Klondike gold rush, when prospectors made their way through here on their route to Dawson City. Many of the city's attractions offer insight into the gold-rush days, and beyond the city limits are some beautiful natural areas to explore. If you are lucky, the night sky will come to life with a display of northern lights .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Whitehorse

Highlights : World-class ski resort, Olympic history, views from the gondola, Cloudraker Skybridge

Whistler has long been known as a world-class ski destination and was the site of many of the skiing events during the 2010 Winter Olympics hosted by Vancouver. Despite this reputation, Whistler is an equally impressive and popular summer destination, with hiking, biking, golfing, and many other activities on offer.

The village has grown over the years and is now a vibrant, high-end resort town with a great selection of hotels, restaurants, and shops.

The Whistler-Blackcomb mountains are famous for their incredible terrain and bring in skiers from around the world. The Peak-2-Peak Gondola , which joins the two mountains, is an 11-minute, 4.4-kilometer-long ride, with spectacular views, and is open to skiers or non-skiers year-round.

The resort has recently added the new Cloudraker Skybridge near the top of the Peak Chair. This 130-meter metal bridge spans a small alpine valley and ends at the Raven's Nest. The viewing platform provides 360-degree views of the surrounding area, including world-famous Black Tusk.

• Read More: Top Things to Do in Whistler

Highlights : Small town charm, PEI National Park, incredible beaches nearby

If you are going to visit Charlottetown , you might as well take the time to explore the whole province of Prince Edward Island . PEI is a summertime playground, with beautiful beaches and interesting historic sites, including the fictional home of Anne of Green Gables in Prince Edward Island National Park .

Charlottetown is the capital and main city but has an almost small-town feel, with numerous Victorian-style heritage buildings. PEI is small enough that you can see the whole island on even a short vacation. Many visitors, particularly families, rent beach houses or cottages on PEI during the summer months.

Highlights : Huge beaches; surfing hotspot; cool, funky town; old-growth forest hiking nearby

The unofficial surfing capital of Canada , the small town of Tofino on Vancouver Island is one of the most unique places to visit in Canada and draws a mixed crowd of visitors.

People come here to surf, hike in the old-growth forests , and enjoy the huge beaches in and around Pacific Rim National Park . This is also a great place to see wildlife, kayak, storm watch in November, and relax at one of the luxurious resorts or set up camp under towering trees at a cozy campground .

The town itself is tiny and has an end-of-the-world type feel about it, but you can find fine dining at some of the lodges or a few of the restaurants around town. A handful of stores, galleries, and coffee shops give the town a special character.

Despite the town's small size, the area feels big. With so much to see and do, you'll want to plan at least a few days here, although it's easy to fill up a week or more. Not far away is Ucluelet , another small town, which you can easily visit on an outing from Tofino.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Tofino

Highlights : Lake Okanagan waterfront, beaches, golfing, downhill skiing in the winter

In the interior of British Columbia is the lovely city of Kelowna. This city is a favorite spot for Canadians but less well-known internationally.

Picturesquely set on the shore of Lake Okanagan and surrounded by rolling mountains, Kelowna draws tourists during the summer months, when it's possible to hike, golf, or enjoy the lake at one of the many wonderful beaches in town.

Renting a houseboat to explore the surrounding waters is a popular summer vacation in this area. In winter, the surrounding mountains are a hotspot for skiers, with the popular nearby ski resorts of Big White and Silver Star , two of British Columbia's best ski resorts , within easy reach.

Just down the lake from Kelowna is the picturesque small town of Penticton , home to some of the best beaches in the Okanagan.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kelowna and the Okanagan

Highlights : A historic mining town, epic resorts and heli-skiing in the winter, mountain biking in the summer

The adventure town of Revelstoke is one of the best places to visit in Canada for adventure. Although it's a favorite destination among Albertans and British Columbians, it is still undiscovered on an international scale, making it a good place to escape the crowds associated with sightseeing destinations like Banff and Lake Louise.

Beautiful mountain scenery surrounds this small town in the interior of British Columbia, but much of the appeal comes from the activities available for outdoor lovers.

In winter, skiers come here to enjoy skiing at Revelstoke Mountain Resort , one of the best ski resorts in British Columbia , or to go heli-skiing in the Purcell Mountains. In summer, mountain biking and hiking are the most popular things to do. Nightlife here has been expanding over the last number of years, and you can find plenty of places to frequent after a day of skiing or hiking.

Highlights : The Forks Market, historic 19th-century buildings, Museum for Human Rights

This thriving city in the prairies of Central Canada may not be the first image that jumps to mind when thinking about the best places to visit in Canada, but if you are traveling in summer, Winnipeg is worth a stop. Surrounded by fields, many of which glow yellow in summer with canola or sunflowers, and set along the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, the city is surprisingly scenic.

The dynamic and fun Forks Market , at the confluence of the two rivers, has restaurants, and outdoor walking trails (a skating rink in winter) and is one of the first places tourists should visit. Also in this area is one of Canada's premiere museums: the Canadian Museum for Human Rights .

Within a couple of hours of the city is Grand Beach , one of Canada's best beaches set on the shore of Lake Winnipeg, and the Whiteshell Provincial Park , an area of boreal forest with some of Manitoba's best lakes and rivers. People come here to camp, hike, or spend time at a cottage.

• Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Winnipeg

Highlights : Up close and personal encounters with polar bears

The small town of Churchill is the place in Canada to see polar bears in their natural environment. These huge beasts roam the tundra just outside of town in search of their next meal when the ice is out on Hudson Bay. Tours in specially created vehicles called Tundra Buggies will take you out into the vast wilderness to see the bears safely and comfortably.

Nearby and also worth visiting is one of Canada's most famous and rarely visited National Historic Sites, the Prince of Wales Fort. Dating from 1731, this massive stone structure is fun to explore, and after your visit, you'll be glad you weren't one of the men stationed here.

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Areas and Regions to Visit in Canada: If you want to extend your travels beyond the best cities and towns in Canada and tackle a region, you can find some interesting destinations. In Eastern Canada, consider the Gaspé Peninsula , a picturesque region in Quebec that juts into the St. Lawrence River. On the West Coast, Vancouver Island offers remote stretches of wilderness, small towns, and incredible hiking trails and campgrounds . To experience Canada's far north, have a look at the beauty of Nunavut .

More on Canada

Visit Canada

Whether you want to visit Canada for business, pleasure, to transit, or stay with family, you may require a temporary resident visa (Visit Visa). The requirement for a visa is based upon your country of citizenship and the type of visit you will be making to Canada. In some cases, certain applicants will also now be required to submit their biometric data (fingerprints and photos) as part of the application process. For some, this could mean traveling within their current country of residency to get to the closest Canadian visa application centre.

Applicants from certain countries do not need to apply for a visit visa, instead, they need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Most visit visas and eTAs are now issued for up to ten years with multiple entries allowed over a ten-year period. With each entry you can remain in Canada for a maximum of six months within a twelve-month period.

Who does not need a visa or eTA?

Passport holders from certain countries do not require a visit visa or an eTA to visit Canada. They enter based on their nationality and are only required to have a valid identity document or passport. Citizens of the following countries can enter Canada without a visit visa or eTA:

• The United States of America

The following exemptions also allow individuals to enter Canada without requiring an eTA:

• Travellers with valid status in Canada (e.g. visitor, student or worker) who re-enters Canada after only visiting the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon.
• French citizens who live in Saint Pierre and Miquelon and are flying directly to Canada from St. Pierre and Miquelon.
• have proper documents to enter the United States, or
• were lawfully admitted to the United States.
• Foreign nationals who are passengers on a flight that makes an unscheduled stop in Canada.
• Foreign nationals who transit through a Canadian airport under the  Transit Without Visa  or China  Transit Program .
• Flight crew, civil aviation inspectors, accident investigators who are or will be working while in Canada.
• Members of Armed Forces (not including the civilian component of an armed forces) of a  country designated under the  Visiting Forces Act  coming to Canada to carry out official duties.
• Diplomats accredited by the Government of Canada.

Who needs an eTA?

Passport holders from certain countries do not require a visit visa to enter Canada but they will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). eTAs cost $7 and are applied for online through the Canadian government website. Travelers flying to Canada require an eTA whether they are entering Canada or transiting through on their way to another destination. Travellers do not need an eTA if they are entering Canada by land or sea. Citizens of the following countries require an eTA to enter Canada:

• British citizen
• British National (Overseas)
• British overseas citizen (re-admissible to the United Kingdom)
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
• Pitcairn Island
• Saint Helena
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• British Subject with a right of abode in the United Kingdom
• Brunei Darussalam
• Czech Republic
• Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, must have a passport issued by Hong Kong SAR.
• Israel, must have a national Israeli passport.
• Republic of Korea
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Romania (electronic passport holders only)
• Solomon Islands
• Switzerland
• Taiwan, must have an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number
• United Arab Emirates
• United States, lawful permanent resident of
• Vatican City State, must have a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican.

Who needs a visa?

Passport holders from certain countries require a visit visa to enter Canada no matter which method they are using to enter Canada air, land, sea). Visit visas cost $100 and are applied for online through the Canadian government website. Passport holders of the following countries require a visa whether they are entering Canada or transiting through on their way to another destination:

• Afghanistan
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Brazil (note: some Brazilian citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they  meet certain requirements )
• British subjects, subject to control
• Burkina Faso
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Cameroon, Republic of
• Central African Republic
• China, People’s Republic of
• Congo, Democratic Republic of
• Congo, Republic of
• Costa Rica, Republic of
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau

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• Israel, must have a valid Israeli “Travel Document in lieu of National Passport”
• Ivory Coast
• Korea, North
• Macao Special Administrative Region
• Maldives Islands
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia, Fed. States
• Palestinian Authority
• Philippines
• Romania (holder of a non-electronic passport, such as a temporary passport)
• Sao Tomé e Principe
• Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Kitts and Nevis
• Vincent and the Grenadines (St. Vincent)
• Taiwan, must have a passports other than ordinary passports issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that  include their personal identification number
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan

How long is it valid for?

When you enter Canada, in most cases, you will be allowed to stay for a maximum of six months. In some cases, an officer may reduce the amount of time you can remain in Canada. This could be due to the fact that your passport is expiring in less than six months, or they have some concerns about your visit. If the officer is going to limit your stay in Canada to less than six months, they will write the date on which you need to leave Canada in your passport, and they may issue you with a document called a Visitor Record which will have the date that you need to leave Canada by.

Some airports in Canada now have kiosks that you use on arrival as opposed to seeing a physical border services officer. If you enter Canada through a kiosk, you will not receive a stamp in your passport. In these cases, you can stay in Canada for six months from the day you entered Canada or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you need a stamp in your passport, you can ask a border services officer for one. If you used a kiosk, ask a border services officer to stamp your passport after you have finish at the kiosk.

If you are in Canada and would like to stay in Canada for longer than six months, you can apply to extend your stay in Canada. This application can be submitted online through the Canadian government’s website. The extension costs $100 to apply for, and there is no guarantee that an officer will extend your stay as it is at their discretion. You would be allowed to remain in Canada while waiting for the decision on your application for an extension.

What can I do on a visit visa?

Visit visas and eTAs allow travellers to visit Canada for up to six months. You cannot study most programs while on a visit visa or eTA, and you cannot work in Canada on a visit visa or eTA. If you wish to study in Canada, in most cases you need to apply for a study permit. Click here to see who is exempt from requiring a study permit . If you wish to work in Canada, in most cases you will need to apply for a work permit. Click here to see who is exempt from requiring a work permit.

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Visitor Visa checklist: Everything you need to apply and visit Canada

A visitor visa is needed to come to Canada as a tourist, or on a quick trip to visit family, or do business for individuals of many countries.

Anyone who is not a permanent or temporary resident of Canada (those with a work or study permit) will need a visitor visa to enter the country. However, citizens of certain countries do not need a visitor visa and can instead pursue an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). eTAs are a more streamlined form or travel authorisation available to nationals of countries that have visa-free travel agreements with Canada. For answers to common questions on eTAs, click here .

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

What is needed to get a Canadian visitor visa?

1. Complete the needed forms

Depending on whether you are applying inside or outside of Canada, you will need to fill in different forms. Those applying outside of Canada will require:

• Application for temporary resident visa (IMM 5257);
• Family information form (IMM 5707);
• Statutory declaration of common-law union (IMM 5409);
• Use of representative (IMM 5476)—Note this is only required if you have used the services of a representative, or if you are appointing or cancelling use of a representative; and
• Authority to release personal information to a designated individual (IMM 5475)—Note this form is only required if you authorise Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to release information from your case file to someone other than yourself (i.e.: a representative or authorised relative).

2. Collect the needed documentation

In addition to the above forms, applicants for a visitor visa will need to following documentation in support of their request:

• Receipt of fee payment;
• A photocopy of the information page of your passport, including: the passport number, issuance and expiry dates, and your photo, name, issue date, and place of birth;
• Two photos meeting the requirements of the visa application photograph specifications . On the back of these two photos applicants must write their name and date of birth. If applicants are required to provide biometric fingerprints and photo they do not have to attach these photos;
• Proof of financial support, proving that you can support yourself and any family member accompanying you while you are in Canada;
• Photocopy of your marriage license or certificate (if relevant);
• Letter explaining the purpose of your travel;
• Photocopy of your current immigration status (if your country of residence differs from the country of citizenship listed on your passport, you must provide proof of legal status in your country of residence);
• Minors travelling alone or with one parent must provide custody documents or a letter of authorisation from the other non-accompanying parent of a letter of authorisation signed by both parent or legal guardians; and
• Any other additional documents required by the responsible visa office in your region.

Note that application forms completed online must be completed and validated with the generation of a barcode. If completed on a computer, these barcodes will be automatically attached to the immigration forms, otherwise they must be printed and placed at the top of an application if applying by paper.

How to pay required fees and prove fee payment to IRCC

There are two kinds of fees that applicants for a visitor visa may need to pay. These are application processing fees, and biometric fees. Those who do not need to provide biometrics may be exempt from the second set of fees—find out if you need to give biometrics here .

Application processing fees for visitor visas are $100 CAD per person, and $500 CAD for a family (five or more people).

Biometrics fees on the other hand are $85 CAD per person, and $170 per family (two or more people).

These fees may be subject to change and cannot be refunded regardless of the decision reached on your application. In addition, the only accepted method to pay these fees is online.

After following the given instructions and completing the process, you must wait until an official IRCC receipt is issued with a barcode. Applicants are advised to save this file and attach a copy of it to their application.

How to provide proof of financial support

There are several documents that you can use to prove that you can support yourself and any dependents that accompany you while you are visiting Canada.

Some examples include cash, certified cheque, bank draft, or money order in a large enough amount to cover all reasonable expenses incurred during your stay in Canada.

In addition, written or verbal statements (which can be verified) can also be used, provided that they satisfy an officer that sufficient financial support from friends and/or family has been arranged and can cover reasonable incurable expenses during your stay.

Other documents include bank statements, a letter of employment or previous tax filing information,

How to write a “purpose of travel” letter

All foreign nationals entering Canada must be able to satisfy an officer at their time of entry that they have legitimate reasons to enter and reside in Canada. In the context of a visitor visa, this can often also include proving that you (the foreign national) will leave Canada once the period of your authorised stay expires.

In some cases, visitor visa applicants may also need a letter of invitation from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident .

Applying with family members

Visitor visa applicants wishing to bring their family with them on their trip to Canada must complete an application form for each family member. All applications may be submitted together online or at the VAC where you will send your application on paper. A single receipt may also be given for all included applications.

Lastly all family members and dependents must meet all requirements for temporary residence in Canada.

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Publish messages, videos, media and alerts on electronic signage, webpages, and Android and iOS mobile devices to reach your audience wherever they are.

Executive Management

Boost productivity and drive change with realtime data and messaging on digital signage for higher employee engagement and bottom-line results.

IT & Networking

Easily deploy our scalable and secure content management platform, whether it’s software-only, pre-imaged PCs or hosted in the cloud.

Facilities Management

Unify your visual messaging, alert systems and room management into a single platform to improve the employee and visitor experience.

Our Platform. Our Promise.

Visix is the OG of digital signage, in business since 1980 with over 20 years of selling and supporting content management software, and one of the highest customer satisfaction ratings in the business.

We want to make sure your team has all the tools they need to communicate better, so Visix specialists will walk you through every step of your digital signage strategy, from concept to completion, offering the utmost in customer support.

We provide everything you need for success, including software, hardware, hosting, creative, consulting, training and tech support. Visix also partners with a vast network of AV integrators and IT VARs to provide our clients with end-to-end system services.

Find out why 4000+ clients and 1000+ campuses trust Visix to power their digital signage systems. Contact us to find out how we can help you communicate better through video, signage, media, images – whatever you want to show!

Access content from a single web application that lets you control every aspect of design, scheduling and user permissions from one device or many. Our user-friendly software lets you quickly create, import and schedule media and messages. Choose how many people can contribute content and use admin features for central digital signage system management.

You can drag files into playlists or start from 900+ stock templates in the digital signage CMS. Our desktop designer lets you create messages, templates and layouts with ease, or you can use our pre-designed content kits and subscription feeds. It’s easy to make every screen beautiful.

Our digital signage software lets you drag and drop elements exactly where you want them on screen. Our powerful data widgets let you easily tie to live data sources for auto-updating content. Display event schedules, weather, RSS feeds, live TV and integrated data from Excel, XML and more.

Access our software from any web-enabed device to publish your visual communications to multiple screens, video walls, touchscreens and room signs. Reach remote workers or students with message playlists on websites, intranets, mobiles and desktops. Let people choose the device that works for them.

Install a scalable digital signage solution to fit your culture. We offer software-only or bundled solutions with hardware as a service, and you can choose from cloud or on-premise solutions with subscriptions or perpetual licenses. We have a range of affordable media players, and you can purchase digital signage site licenses for significant savings.

Expand your digital signage to meeting areas with our e-paper and interactive room signs . Show schedules from your own calendar app, offer room booking at the room sign or on a big screen, and better manage your shared spaces.

Deliver Enterprise Communications

We offer digital signage solutions for any industry with a passion for communications. Find out how digital signage can make a difference in your industry.

Motivate your company with digital signage messaging, live scrolling, real-time KPIs and meeting room management that keeps everyone updated in real time.

Manufacturing

Improve productivity, reinforce safety and boost morale when you connect the office and factory floor with stunning visual communications and real-time data.

Higher Education

Engage students and visitors with dynamic displays on campus. Show schedules, announcements, countdowns, digital menu boards, wayfinding and more.

K-12 Schools

Publish announcements, recognize achievements, display menu boards and promote events with digital signs throughout your school or school district.

Manage visual communications for staff, visitors and your community – all from a central source – with our easy digital signage tools, templates and scheduler.

Use displays, interactive wayfinding and directories to offer the best visitor experience – ease stress in the waiting room with self-service kiosks.

Hotels & Hospitality

Place beautiful digital signage throughout your venue with automated feeds, weather, flight updates and event schedules for a better guest experience.

Banks & Financial

Enhance the in-branch experience with real-time news, queueing info, financial updates and advertising for your products and services on digital signs.

Show advertising, boost sales, reduce wait times and improve the visitor experience with dynamic messaging on screens throughout your shop or restaurant.

Benefits of Digital Signage

The beauty of digital signage lies in its versatility. When you invest in electronic signage for your business, you’re able to tap into numerous benefits and advantages, including

With digital signage and intuitive CMS software, you’re able to display conent and change messaging in real time on any screen. No more waiting for signage to be designed, printed and posted. Within a couple of clicks, you can change or update a single digital sign or hundreds of signs across different rooms and facilities at once.

Employees and customers often look past traditional paper-based signage. Without anything to draw in their engagement, standard signage blends in with the surroundings. Electronic signage, on the other hand, can incorporate different colors, designs, movement and even sound. This enhances both visibility and focus.

At the end of the day, digital signage can enhance your company’s overall culture. You can use it to celebrate milestones like birthdays, new hires, work anniversaries and goals achieved. Display kudos and progress to goals on screen to motivate and drive competition. This allows employees to feel celebrated and connected, which strengthens satisfaction and retention.

Automate signage to change based on dates, times and locations. Use subscriptions and data feeds to update screens in real time with news, KPIs, menu boards and event schedules. You can even create dedicated playlists in our software that cycle through different content and alerts based on different triggering events.

Digital signage has higher recall and retention rates than printed notices or email. People also process visual information 60,000x faster than text. By incorporating images, HD videos, animations and interactivity on displays, you can reach more people with messaging they’ll engage with, act on and remember.

Digital signage can be used to improve workplace safety by notifying both workers and customers of specific situations. This includes health and wellness information, weather-related emergencies, unsafe working conditions or equipment that’s out of order. We even have a safety message subscription to help you out.

When you add all of these benefits together, it’s easy to see just how powerful digital signage is. Get started today!

What is Digital Signage? Frequently Asked Questions

What is digital signage.

When people say “digital signage” or “digital signs”, they’re usually talking about big screens or monitors, and the associated hardware, used to inform and engage audiences in their facility. However, anything with a screen can be a digital sign. Our digital signage software lets you publish to screens of all sizes, as well as websites and Microsoft Teams. Find out more about our signage solutions here .

How does digital signage work?

At its most basic, a digital signage system will include a content server (either on-premise or in the cloud) with content management software installed, some number of media players and your screens. Of course, you also have to consider your content and infrastructure, security and operating systems. We’ve got you covered on both software and hardware. Get a more comprehensive overview in this blog post .

How much does digital signage cost?

The cost of digital signage can vary, depending on your needs and the platform you choose. We offer a range of digital signage pricing options from monthly cloud subscriptions to bundled systems to enterprise site licenses to a la carte pricing. You can buy digital signage software licenses for an unlimited number of users and media players. Contact us to discuss your needs, sign up for a free demo and get a customized price quote .

Why choose Visix digital signage?

We have decades of digital signage experience and software expertise to offer. We believe in making digital signage easy to manage and maintain, and every person at Visix is dedicated to helping your digital signage strategy succeed.

Our platform is designed with users in mind. We take content creation and customer support seriously, and our software is regularly updated with new features and security fixes to stay in line with current operating systems. Learn more about Visix here .

What kind of digital signage content can I show?

There’s almost no limit to what you can put on your displays. Visix digital signage software lets you show news, weather traffic, live TV, advertising and entertainment, menu boards, Twitter and other social feeds, and much, much more. Our software lets you import 100+ media types, from images to HD videos to music to events to digital menu boards, and you can pull in data from your own systems like calendar applications.

We can also help you with content solutions and content creation with templates, subscriptions and creative services.

Whether you’re showing content on displays across a network of businesses, shops or education venues, or to a single lobby or waiting room, using graphics and animation for your communications can drive engagement. Sign up for a free demo today.

What kind of screens can I publish to?

Visix digital signage software lets you display your playlists on LED displays, video walls, kiosks, menu boards, touchscreens, room signs, webpages, desktops, Androids, iOS devices and more for maximum interactivity. You decide what content plays where and when. And you can send to an unlimited number of displays, or target just one digital sign to localize your messaging. Learn more about how it works here .

Does digital signage really work?

Yes! Whether your focus is on internal messaging, public relations, or the visitor experience, electronic signage grabs more attention, reaches more types of viewers and has a better recall rate than other types of communication. Content on a digital sign also stimulates more interest from customers, as well as brand recognition and message retention. See 40 stats that prove digital signage works in our free infographic.

Can digital signage help with employee engagement?

Certainly! Whether your employees are in the office, working from home or on the go, our software lets you publish content to keep them informed and engaged.

Your displays can showcase employee achievements, share upcoming events and spotlight social media to build participation and community. You can also display messages to websites for remote workers, or let them view an HTML5 playlist on their own device. Download our free digital signage white paper for more info .

Your guide to the best places to visit in Canada: urban adventures and wild escapes

Sep 9, 2024 • 8 min read

Experience the best of Canada with these top places to visit © Hero Images / Getty Images

Canada captivates visitors with its wildlife, wilderness, and vibrant cultural offerings. Spot polar bears, cruise Vancouver’s coastline, savor Toronto’s cuisine , or enjoy Montréal's music scene.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to experience something new, these are the best places to visit in Canada. But you'll have to plan your trip ahead because this is the world’s second-largest country – you can’t see it all in just one go.

Best for diversity

A vibrant mix of cultures and neighborhoods , Toronto strikes you with sheer urban awe. Dine in Chinatown, visit Greektown, or enjoy five-star fusion. Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods, art galleries, theaters and hockey mania make it Ontario’s coolest city. Toronto is also Canada’s most diverse city – nearly half of its residents were born abroad.

Local tip: Snap a photo of the CN Tower (one of the top spots to visit in Toronto ). For an added thrill: check out Edgewalk, where you can loop around the tower’s perimeter while taking in unparalleled city views.

2. Niagara Falls

Best for an iconic travel experience

The #1 tourist attraction in Canada is Niagara Falls , known for its stunning and powerful waterfalls. Board the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour, where you’ll feel the thunderous spray up close. Hikers will enjoy the Niagara Glen hiking trail through ancient forests and rugged terrain, offering a peaceful contrast to the roaring waters.

Extend your stay with a scenic biking adventure along the Greater Niagara Circle Route or soar to new heights with the Wildplay Zipline , which offers unmatched views of the falls.

3. Manitoulin Island

Best for Canada’s First Nations culture

The largest freshwater island in the world, Manitoulin has a slower pace with its summery cottages and lakeside beaches. Jagged expanses of white quartzite and granite outcroppings edge the shoreline and lead to shimmering vistas. First Nations culture thrives, with local foods and eco-adventures offered by the island’s eight communities. Powwows add drumming, dancing and storytelling to the mix for immersive experiences that connect you with the people and the land of the country that we now know as Canada.

4. Rideau Canal

Best for ice skating

Opened in 1832, this 200 km-long (124 miles) waterway —consisting of canals, rivers and lakes—connects Ottawa and Kingston via 47 locks. The Rideau Canal is at its finest in wintry Ottawa, where a stretch of it becomes the Rideau Canal Skateway – the world's largest skating rink.

People swoosh by on the 7.8km (4.8 miles) of groomed ice, pausing for hot chocolate and scrumptious slabs of fried dough called beavertails (a quintessentially Canadian treat). February’s Winterlude festival kicks it up a notch when townsfolk build massive ice sculptures.

Local tip: Once the canal thaws, it becomes a boater’s paradise, meaning you can appreciate it whatever time of year you visit.

British Columbia

5. Vancouver

Best for urban life with access to nature

Sea-to-sky beauty surrounds the laid-back, cocktail-loving metropolis of Vancouver . There are skiable mountains on the outskirts, beaches fringing the coast and Stanley Park ’s thick rainforest just steps from downtown’s gleaming skyscrapers.

Pack a picnic and enjoy the (legally allowed) summer park drinking . Shop and stroll through the diverse and charming neighborhoods – you may even spot a celebrity. Known as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver is the filming location for many TV and film productions shot throughout the year.

Planning tip: With its mild climate and beautiful beaches , Vancouver is definitely one of the best places in Canada to visit in summer.

6. Vancouver Island

Best for nature, surf beaches and boutique food ventures

Picture-postcard Victoria is the heart of Vancouver Island , with bohemian shops, wood-floored coffee bars and a past steeped in English tea culture since the 1840s. British Columbia ’s capital city is full of charm, but it’s only the kick-off point to an island that has a bounty of natural wonders to explore.

Pacific Rim National Park ’s West Coast Trail offers misty wilderness and Tofino’s waves. With countless outdoor adventures to enjoy, this is a favorite among Canada’s national parks for nature lovers.

Detour: Wandering foodies will want to head to the Cowichan Valley, which is studded with welcoming small farms and boutique wineries.

7. Whistler

Best for skiing, mountain biking or summer paddle-boarding

A 2010 Winter Olympics venue, Whistler is one of the world’s top ski resorts, located just 90 minutes from Vancouver. Featuring over 200 marked runs winding down two towering mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – this alpine village is a skier’s paradise.

Skiing is Whistler’s main draw, but summer visitors with bikes and paddleboards make it a year-round hot spot. Adding more diversity, Whistler has recently developed a thriving arts and culture scene, with highlights like the Audain Art Museum and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre taking the stage as equally appealing attractions to the famed slopes.

8. The Canadian Rockies

Best for mountain views

Known as the prettiest place to visit in Canada, the Canadian Rockies straddle British Columbia and Alberta and offer awe-inspiring adventures across five national parks. Try hiking , whitewater rafting, and skiing.

For a different perspective, take the train and experience the grandeur from the comfort of your seat: luminous lakes, jumbles of wildflowers and glistening glaciers glide by as the steel cars chug up mountain passes and down river valleys en route to points east or west.

9. Drumheller

Best for dinosaur enthusiasts

Dinosaur lovers get weak-kneed in dust-blown Drumheller , where paleontological civic pride runs high thanks to the Royal Tyrrell Museum , home to one of the planet's pre-eminent fossil collections. The world’s largest “dinosaur” is here, too—a giant fiberglass T-rex that visitors can climb and peer out of (through its mouth). Beyond the dino-related attractions, enjoy classic Badlands scenery including the eerie “hoodoos,” or craggy spires of rock.

Planning tip: Follow the scenic driving loops; these take you past all the good stuff.

Wondering where locals go in Canada? Check out some of our writers' favorite spots.

10. Old Québec City

Best place to visit in Canada for romantics

Québec’s capital , with over 400 years of history, is a treasure trove of romance and charm. Its stone walls, spired cathedrals, and jazz-filled cafes create an atmosphere reminiscent of the most enchanting European cities. Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, where you can lose yourself amid street performers, cozy inns, and the irresistible aroma of café au lait and flaky pastries.

For those looking to explore beyond the city, consider taking a scenic drive along Québec’s Rte 132, which winds past the sea , mountains and charming towns, offering breathtaking views and a taste of the region's natural beauty.

11. Montréal

Best for music lovers

As Canada’s second-largest city and the country’s cultural heart, Montréal is a marvel for music lovers. From June to August, Montreal’s parks, beaches, and festivals come alive with lively rooftop bars and arts-filled streets. The best jazz-influenced musicians in the world play to equally jazzed spectators at the annual Montréal International Jazz Festival , where there are over 500 performances and shows to enjoy (and countless are free). Want more? Discover more things to do in Montreal to make the most of your visit.

Planning tip: Check out Tourisme Montréal for the latest live music events, big and small, throughout the city.

Prairies (Manitoba, Saskatchewan)

12. the prairies.

Best for big-sky road trips

Solitude reigns in Canada’s middle ground. Drive through Manitoba’s vast landscapes and Saskatchewan’s endless fields of golden wheat, which melt into the horizon. When the wind blows, the wheat sways like waves on the ocean, punctuated by the occasional grain elevator rising up like a tall ship.

Big skies mean big storms that drop like an anvil, visible on the skyline for miles. Far-flung towns include arty Winnipeg , boozy Moose Jaw and Mountie-filled Regina, interspersed with Ukrainian and Scandinavian villages.

13. Churchill

Best for polar bear encounters

The first polar bear you see up close will take your breath away, and there’s no better place for an encounter than Churchill , Manitoba, which happens to be right on the bears’ migration path. From late September to early November, tundra vehicles take you close enough to lock eyes with polar bears. Summer lets you kayak or stand-up paddleboard with beluga whales.

Atlantic Canada

14. bay of fundy.

Best place to spot whales

It has lighthouses, boats and trawlers, fishing villages and other maritime scenery, yet Fundy is not your average Canadian bay. The Bay of Fundy’s extreme tides attract whales, including fin, humpback and endangered North Atlantic right whales, making it a must-visit spot for whale watching. For more maritime travel inspiration, check out the best places to visit in Nova Scotia.

Northern Canada

15. baffin island.

Best for Inuit art and incredible landscapes

The rugged landscape of Baffin Island is home to cloud-scraping mountains and a third of Nunavut’s human population. Canada’s largest island is perfect for an arctic safari to spot narwhals, belugas and bears. The island’s crown jewel is Auyuittuq National Park —its name means “the land that never melts,” and indeed glaciers, fjords and vertiginous cliffs fill the eastern expanse. The park is a siren call for hardcore hikers and climbers—and more than a few polar bears.

Local tip: Baffin Island is also a center for Inuit art; studios for high-quality carving, printmaking and weaving can be found in many of the small towns.

Keep planning your trip to Canada:

Find out how to see Canada by train and by road .

Discover the best time to visit and the top things to do in Canada .

Learn how to get around Canada and travel throughout Canada on a budget .

Get more information on the visa requirements to visit Canada .

This article was first published Jul 11, 2021 and updated Sep 9, 2024.

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A statistical snapshot of tourism in Canada on World Tourism Day

Perhaps no sector was harder hit by the COVID-19 pandemic than the tourism sector. Indeed, many key travel metrics have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. As the world marks World Tourism Day on September 27, let’s take a guided tour of our travel data.

International travel—inbound and outbound—improved in 2023 compared with 2022; however, it has not fully recovered from the effects of the travel restrictions put in place in 2020.

In 2023, Canada welcomed 74.5 million international arrivals (non-resident visitors and returning Canadian residents), almost 1.5 times more compared with 2022, and over four-fifths (84.1%) the number of arrivals in 2019.

Although recovery rates have begun to slow, tourism trends continue to improve and in some cases the rates have exceeded the number of trips and travel expenditures seen in 2019 .

To further explore these trends and interact with tourism data, please visit the  Frontier Counts: Interactive Dashboard .

Domestic tourism spending exceeding pre-pandemic levels

In 2023, Canadian residents took 285.1 million trips and spent $73.5 billion while travelling domestically. Spending was up 6.5% from 2022 and was 28.2% higher than in 2019, prior to the pandemic.

Tourism sector growing at a faster pace than the economy overall in the second quarter of 2024

Tourism recovery is not confined to travel alone but also extends to employment and economic growth.

Our national tourism indicators look at the contribution tourism makes to the Canadian economy overall. In the second quarter, the tourism sector contributed 1.60% to Canada’s economic activity .

Tourism spending in Canada grew by 0.7% in the second quarter of 2024 (seasonally adjusted and adjusted for price change), but spending remained below (-6.4 %) the pre-pandemic levels reported during the fourth quarter of 2019.

Tourism gross domestic product (+0.8%) rose at a faster pace than the economy overall (+0.5%) in the second quarter of 2024.

Employment within the tourism industry rose by 0.3% in the second quarter, with most of the increase due to more jobs in recreation and entertainment, air transportation and food services.

Travel heats up in August, but border crossings remain below pre-pandemic levels

Statistics Canada works closely with the Canadian Border Security Agency to count the number of arrivals entering or returning to Canada.

In August 2024, the preliminary number of international arrivals in Canada by air and automobile increased 9.0% year over year to 7.7 million.

By automobile, there were 2.9 million Canadian-resident return trips from the United States in August 2024 and 1.9 million US-resident trips to Canada.

US-resident trips to Canada by automobile were up 12.9% year over year in August 2024 to reach 84.4% of the pre-pandemic level observed in August 2019.

Canadian-resident return trips from visits to the United States by automobile were up 5.1% year over year in August 2024, reaching 89.0% of the level observed in August 2019, before the pandemic.

Meanwhile, the number of Canadian-resident return trips from abroad by air reached 1.7 million in August 2024, a 10.0% increase from August 2023 and 9.8% higher than the 1.2 million trips recorded in August 2019.

The number of non-resident arrivals by air was up 11.9% year over year to 1.2 million in August 2024, reaching 93.9% of the August 2019 pre-pandemic level. These air arrivals were almost evenly split between US  residents and residents of countries other than the United States.

Workers in the accommodation services subsector make half the national average in weekly earnings

Accommodation and food services is the sector most closely linked to the tourism industry. Just under 1.3 million Canadians were working in the accommodation and food services sector in June 2024 (seasonally adjusted).

There were 193,431 people working in accommodation services in June, while 1.1 million were working at food services and drinking places.

Workers in the accommodation services subsector were making $676.14 per week in June, while employees at food services and drinking places were making considerably less ($461.57 per week). By way of comparison, the average weekly earnings of employees across all sectors nationally were $1,252.85 in June.

There were 68,370 job vacancies in the accommodation and food services sector in May , down from 106,775 vacancies 12 months earlier. The job vacancy rate for the sector fell from 7.5% to 5.0% over this period.

Cost of travel starting to fall, but prices remain elevated compared with three years earlier

Like pretty much everything else in today’s world, the cost of travel has risen since 2021, although some prices have been coming down over the past year.

In July 2024, Canadians were paying 3.8% more for food purchased from restaurants compared with 12 months earlier and 18.2% more compared with July 2021.

Prices for traveller accommodations were down 3.7% year over year nationally in July, with price changes ranging from a 16.4% drop in Nova Scotia to an 8.2% increase in Saskatchewan. Compared with the same month three years earlier, prices for traveller accommodation were up 48.1% nationally.

One area where travellers may find some price relief is in car rentals, with prices down 16.2% year over year in July. Nevertheless, car rental prices were up 13.5% in July compared with the same month in 2021.

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Who can apply

On this page, who can get a visa, some people are not allowed to enter canada, minor children travelling to canada.

You must meet some basic requirements to get a visitor visa.

• have a valid travel document , like a passport
• be in good health
• have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your home country
• convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
• The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.

You may also need a medical exam and letter of invitation from someone who lives in Canada.

Check the list of documents you need based on your situation .

Some people are inadmissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. You can be inadmissible for several reasons, including being involved in:

• criminal activity
• human rights violations
• organized crime

You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons. Find out more about inadmissibility .

Make sure you know what to do if your minor children (children under the age of 18) will be travelling with you, with someone else, or alone.

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