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Apply for a UK Visa

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Government of canada services and information in london, united kingdom.

Email: [email protected]

Hours of operation:

Telephone: +44 (0) 207 004 6000

Fax: +44 (0) 207 004 6053

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: +44 207 004 6114

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

Website: IRCC web form

Services and information provided to Canadians by the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom.

Emergency consular assistance

Canadian citizens in need of emergency consular assistance during business hours:

• by email at [email protected]
• by phone at +44 (0) 207 004 6000
• Outside of business hours, see Request emergency assistance

On this page

Adoption and surrogacy, birth abroad, child abduction, citizenship services, criminal record checks, death abroad, divorce abroad, legal matters, marriage abroad, notarial services, passport services, pensions and retirement, same-sex marriage abroad, studying abroad, visa and immigration services, voting abroad.

Refer to International adoption .

Surrogacy is legal in the United Kingdom.

Refer to Children born outside of Canada .

If your child is born outside of Canada, you do not need to register the birth in Canada.

Canadian birth certificates are available from the Vital Statistics authorities in the province or territory in which the event occurred.

The General Registrar Office provides birth, death and marriage certificates in England and Wales .

Refer to Child abduction and parenting or custody issues .

Reunite is the leading UK charity specialising in international parental child abduction. It provides advice, information and support to parents, family members and guardians, who have had a child abducted or who fear child abduction.

For information on legal advice refer to Legal matters .

For many, it is now possible and recommended to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship online . Refer to Get proof of Canadian citizenship .

For those ineligible to submit your proof of citizenship application online:

Complete your proof of citizenship application and pay your fee online . Include a copy of your online payment receipt with your application. Note the following requirements before sending your documents by mail or placing them in our drop-off box at the Pall Mall entrance of Canada House:

• include your email address with your forms
• enter “N/A” for any questions that do not apply to you
• urgent application processing is available for special cases
• Quebec birth certificates issued after January 1, 1994 are acceptable; Quebec birth certificates issued prior to January 1994 require an updated birth certificate

Mailing address:

High Commission of Canada

Attn: Consular - Citizenship Services

Canada House

Trafalgar Square

London, SW1Y 5BJ

Applications can take up to 4 weeks to review before sending to Canada for processing. You will receive a notification when we send it to Canada. We will also return your original supporting documents at that time. Check processing times of your application online.

For information on dual citizenship, see: Travelling as a dual citizen .

Payment method

Pay your application fees online .

If you are currently living in the UK and require a criminal record check to cover time spent living in Canada:

Criminal record check with fingerprints

If you are asked for a criminal record check based on fingerprints, you must have your fingerprints taken in the UK. You will also need to hire a Canadian company to digitize and forward them to the RCMP on your behalf. Refer to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) instructions . No application form is available from the RCMP. The organization you use to digitize and forward your fingerprints to the RCMP will provide you with a form. See accredited fingerprint companies .

In London you can arrange to have your fingerprints taken at Scotland Yard. Appointments may be made through the Metropolitan Police website. Outside London, please contact the regional police headquarters for your area.

Criminal record check without fingerprints

If you are asked for a criminal record check that is only based on your name and date of birth, contact local police in the area where you last resided in Canada and follow their instructions.

An internet search will provide details of private companies in Canada which assist in obtaining police certificates based on your name and date of birth.

Note: The High Commission of Canada to the UK cannot authenticate or confirm the contents of criminal record checks, other than certificates issued by the RCMP and based on fingerprints.

Refer to Death abroad . Also refer to the UK’s Register the death .

See also UK What to do when someone dies: step by step .

Find information on obtaining a UK death certificate .

Canadian death certificates are available from the Vital Statistics authorities in the province or territory in which the event occurred.

See also Pensions and retirement .

Send the deceased’s Canadian passport to the Passport Section of the High Commission by email at [email protected] . Indicate if you would like the passport cancelled and returned as a keepsake.

Find information on Canadian divorce and separation .

To get a divorce certificate, but you are unsure where your divorce was filed, consult Canadian Central Registry of Divorce Proceedings .

The High Commission of Canada cannot provide legal advice, however the following may be of assistance:

Law Society

• England and Wales
• Northern Ireland

Citizens Advice Bureau

See Ask Travel under General Consular Services for a list of lawyers in the London area.

Refer to Marriage outside Canada .

Canadian marriage certificates are available from the Vital Statistics authorities in the province or territory in which the event occurred.

The Consular section of the High Commission of Canada in London provides certain notarial services by post or by appointment, to Canadian citizens and, in limited cases, to non-Canadian citizens if the documents are intended for use in Canada. Please note that the High Commission only provides notarial services if the service is not available through a local solicitor or notary public. Instructions below will provide information about the notarial services available. Please note: Some services are only available through the provincial vital statistics office in Canada or through the Authentication section of Global Affairs Canada.

As of January 11, 2024, Canadian documents are authenticated with an apostille. The High Commission can authenticate certain documents issued by the Government of Canada or notarized in specific provinces and territories The following documents may be eligible for authentication:

• Documents issued by the Government of Canada
• Vital statistics documents issued by all provinces and territories
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• the Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Prince Edward Island

If your document was notarized in the provinces and territories listed above, the High Commission can also assist no matter where it was originally issued.

Competent authorities in the following provinces will be responsible for authenticating all other documents issued or notarized in their respective provinces. These documents must be submitted to the competent authorities and will not be authenticated at the High Commission.

• Alberta: Ministry of Justice of Alberta
• British Columbia: Ministry of the Attorney General of British Columbia
• Ontario: Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery of Ontario
• Quebec: Ministère de la Justice du Québec
• Saskatchewan: Ministry of Justice and Attorney General of Saskatchewan

Visit Changes to authentications services in Canada for more information on how authentication services changed after the Apostille Convention took effect in Canada on January 11, 2024.

If you have questions about these services, email [email protected] .

Certified copies:

The Consular section of the High Commission of Canada in London can produce certified true copies of certain Canadian documents.

You can obtain this service by post or by appointment. In all cases, your application must include the followings:

• Original documents for which you need certified true copies
• A payment of 20$CAD per document. Complete and include the Credit Card Authorization form in your application.
• A short letter to explain your request and include instructions for the return of the document: provide the name and address of the person who will receive the documents in the UK.
• Please note: if you are requesting this service to complete your pension application in Canada, this service is offered free of charge. Please include a document to demonstrate that you are applying for certified true copies to complete your pension application in Canada.

Witness a signature, affidavit, sworn statement - by appointment only

• Documents presented by a Canadian citizen or a non-Canadian citizen for use in Canada; exceptions apply (fees apply).

If you have questions about notarial services, email [email protected] .

Note: Please gather all the necessary documents and draft any affidavit or sworn statement before presenting yourself at your appointment, but the date and your signature must be completed in front of the officer. Note that if witnesses must sign your document, both you and the witnesses must be present at the High Commission on the day of your appointment. Witnesses must have their own original official and valid pieces of identification. It is your responsibility to ensure that your witnesses meet the eligibility criteria. Your presence is mandatory for this service; please make an appointment with us.

Wills, probate and estates

Records of wills and estates are a provincial / territorial responsibility in Canada. To access these records, contact the appropriate provincial or territorial authority .

Complete the Credit Card Authorization Form .

Complete your passport application and pay your fee online . Include a copy of your online payment receipt. You can combine multiple family applications in the same envelope. Applications sent in one envelope will be returned together in one envelope along with all original documentation and your new passport.

Submit passport applications to the High Commission by mail or place in the drop-off box. We do not send receipt confirmations. We will only contact you if additional information is required.

The processing time for a passport application is 20 working days (around 4 weeks), excluding public holidays and postal delivery times, upon receipt of a complete application . Allow a minimum of 6 weeks as Passports are printed in Canada; we cannot speed up the process.

Send by mail (we recommend a traceable method since we are unable to confirm receipt of applications).

Attn: Consular - Passport Services

Place in drop-off box Monday to Friday from 8am - 4pm (except public holidays):

• located inside the Pall Mall Street entrance of Canada House

Email [email protected] for urgent travel requirements. Enter “Urgent – Travel date (indicate the date)” in the subject line. Include the following information in your email:

• full name as it appears on the application form
• date of birth
• Royal Mail tracking number (if applicable)
• daytime telephone number

Dual Canadian citizens require a valid Canadian passport to travel to Canada.

Report a lost or stolen passport .

Stamps and visas

It is the responsibility of Canadian citizens residing in the UK to contact UK authorities to get the correct stamps in their Canadian passports showing they have a right to live and work in the UK.

If you are applying to replace your passport , the old passport will be cancelled and can be returned to you if requested on the application form. We are unable to transfer existing visas from the old passport into the new one. It is your responsibility to verify with the UK authorities as to the validity of the visa contained in your old passport and, if required, to make arrangements to have it added to your new passport.

Email passport questions to [email protected] only if an answer is not available on this website and cannot be found in the Passport Help Centre .

Pay online for all your passport services .

Refer to Benefits for Canadians living abroad .

Canadian residents in the UK will receive their Canada pension, Old Age Security and Québec pension in pounds sterling by direct deposit.

Information about veterans’ services is available from the Veterans Affairs Office of the Canadian High Commission in London by calling 020 7004 6075. Refer to Veterans Affairs Canada for additional information.

Refer to Cancel Old Age Security and Canada Pension Plan benefits if someone has passed away.

Should you require assistance to cancel public pension benefits, please provide the requested information and a scanned copy of the death certificate to the Consular Section by email at [email protected] .

The estate/relatives of the deceased may be entitled to benefits following the death.

Same sex marriages are legal. Refer to Marriages and civil partnerships in England and Wales .

Refer to Studying abroad and EduCanada .

Studying in the UK

If you are a Canadian interested in higher education in the UK, consult:

• Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) – For information on undergraduate courses online application processes for full-time study.
• UK Postgraduate Application and Statistical Service (UKPASS) – For information on all UK postgraduate studies, and an online application service for some degree courses.

For general advice on fees and funding, immigration and visas:

• UK Council for International Student Affairs
• British High Commission in Ottawa
• UK Border Force - Student visas

Refer to Travel documents – Visas .

Advice on UK entry and visas is not available from the High Commission of Canada in London. For information see Visas and immigration at GOV.UK .

• Apply to travel, study, work or immigrate to Canada .
• Find a visa application centre (VAC) to book an appointment to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
• Submit an enquiry using the IRCC web form to contact a visa office.

Permanent residents of Canada: Find out how to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) .

Refer to Voting in an election while outside Canada .

You can also request a voting registration application for a Canadian federal election from the High Commission by email at [email protected] .

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Apply UK Visa from Canada: Requirements and Guidelines

While UK tops the popularity chart of travel destinations for most Canadians, did you know that it is the most favorite haunt of those in the 60+ age group? Not only that, 60% of Canadians make a repeat visit at least once in their lifetime, and half of UK’s Canadian visitors come from Ontario. The reason for Canadians’ high affinity towards UK is the region’s ancient history and medieval architecture. Now that’s a thought encouraging enough to get you packed for the United Kingdom!

Travelling to UK in Covid Times

It is true that the Covid pandemic has taken away a large chunk of the global traveling spirit. However, visiting UK from Canada is still pretty smooth. What makes things even easier is that the WHO has not included Canada in the list of red-flagged countries. So, only basic prohibitions are applicable for Canadians travelling to the UK. The nature of prohibitions will depend upon which region in the UK you enter – whether England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. Also, you should not have traveled to any of the red-flagged in the 10 days preceding arrival into UK. If so, you will be subjected to tighter, more uncomfortable restrictions!

Whether your port of entry is England , Scotland , or Wales , it is mandatory to self-quarantine for 10 days and undergo two Covid-19 tests during this time. Self-quarantining in Scotland should strictly be within the confines of a Managed Quarantine Facility, whereas for Wales , you can do so at the hotel/chosen accommodation or Managed Quarantine Facility.

Specifically, for Northern Ireland , you need to show negative COVID-19 test results during immigration. These results should not be more than 3 days old from the date of departure. Following negative Covid proof, fill and submit your journey and contact information through the Passenger Locator Form, after which you should self-isolate.

Applying for a UK Visa from Canada

You can obtain a UK Visa for tourism, studies, business / work engagements, marriage, medical treatment, government work, family reunion, or transit.

In fact, visiting UK as a short-term tourist, doesn’t require a visa at all! However, you will still have to present your passport with enough validity to cover your stay, confirmed hotel reservation and travel/health insurance . However, if you have a criminal record or have been refused entry on any previous occasion, then you will need a Standard Visitor Visa for whatever duration you plan to stay. You can confirm your eligibility for a UK Visa by visiting official website . Simply select the purpose of your visit from the list and you will find all the necessary information.

• So, if your social/travel status makes you a candidate for a UK Visa, start by visiting https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk . Click the Visa Application Link most suited to your purpose of visit. For example, if you are visiting UK as a tourist, simply click the Standard Visitor Visa link to get detailed information on eligibility, acceptable duration of stay, visa fees, etc.
• Next, prepare your application. This is an online process, wherein both application submission and fee payment are done electronically. At this stage you might also have to submit test results for TB, and pay the health surcharge, if applicable to you.
• In case you choose to visit the VAC, first book an appointment online. At the VAC, you will have to submit your fingerprints, photograph, documents, and passport.
• If you use the app, you can do so within the comfort of your home. The app will help you submit your profile photo and upload the documents digitally. However, the documents will have to be scanned first.

Documentation:

• Canadian Passport with at least 2 blank pages and validity covering duration of stay.
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Employment letter or business registration documents if self-employed
• Proof of legal residence
• Flight ticket itinerary for visa and hotel reservation
• International travel insurance

Visa Application Centers

Edmonton : Suite 531, Scotia Place-Tower-2 , 10060 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T5J 3R8 Canada Opening Hours: 09:00 – 14:00 (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday)

Ottawa : 2211 Riverside Drive, Unit 403, Ottawa Ontario, K1H 7X5 Opening Hours: 09:00 – 14:00 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)

Toronto : 2 Bloor Street West, 7th Floor, Toronto, ON M4W 3E2 Opening Hours: 09:00 – 15:00 (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday)

Vancouver: 580 Hornby Street, Suite 440, Vancouver, BC, V6C 2E7 Canada Opening Hours: 09:00 – 14:00 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)

What documents to bring on the appointment date

• Printout of the Appointment Confirmation letter confirming the details of your appointment
• Valid Passport
• Supporting Documents
• Printout of your checklist

Preparing for your UK Trip!

The waiting time for the Visa starts from the day you submit your biometrics and documentation. The decision is fastest if your purpose of travel is tourism, holiday, marriage, or business meeting, and typically takes 3 weeks.

The UK Visa comes in the form of a sticker or vignette pasted in your passport. It contains information about your Visa Type, Visa Validity, and other Terms & Conditions. You must ascertain the accuracy of these facts and figures immediately to avoid immigration hassles after entering UK.

The only chances your Visa Application could get rejected is if you failed to show sufficient proof of financial support or missed even one document from the checklist. In either case you can re-apply and furnish all documents as per protocol.

Related posts:

• Apply UK Visa from India: Requirements and Guidelines

• Your location: United States   --> Change

UK Visa Application Center in Canada, UK Embassy in Canada

If you need paid support with the uk visa application process and/or consultation on the documents, you can order such service with our visa agency ., contact us today if you need help with a uk visa application, what is visa application center.

UK Visa Application Center is a collection point for your documents and to take biometrics (e.g. fingerprints). The UK Visa Application Center transfers your documents to the UK Embassy in Canada together with your biometric data.

In Canada you can submit your UK visa application in:

• Edmonton (an additional fee of £76.5 is required to apply in this location)
• Halifax (an additional fee of £76.5 is required to apply in this location)
• Montreal (an additional fee of $255 is required to apply in this location)
• Ottawa (an additional fee of £76.5 is required to apply in this location)
• St Johns (an additional fee of £76.5 is required to apply in this location)
• Vancouver (an additional fee of £76.5 is required to apply in this location)

Risk Assessment

To understand your unique situation, we’ll start by studying your case to discover your chances of being accepted for a UK visa

Professional support

Since 2006, we’ve been successfully securing UK visas for people, just like you! While we don’t know much about visas to other countries, we’re experts in everything surrounding UK visas. After all, we deal with dozens of applications every day. So, yes, we know them inside out.

Documents and samples

We give you the list of all documents and samples needed. This way you know just what to expect. We’ll then check to guarantee if the documents meet the official requirements or not.

Online forms

Forget filling in confusing application forms. It contains a minimum of 100-150 questions and you should be very careful answering them. If you choose our agency to help you with the application, our specialists will be happy to fill in the application form for you .

Book an appointment

We will book an appointment at the UK Visa Application Centre for you at convinient date and time. Just head to the appointment, make photo for visa and submit your fingerprints. And, you’re ready to go!

Upload docs to the Embassy

We organize and upload all your supporting documents directly to the British Embassy. So, you need only passport on appointment.

If you dream of securing a UK visa, contact us now ! We specialise in complex cases and refusals. No matter what your situation is, we can help you.

In United States you can get help with your UK visa application in:

• Atlanta (100 Peachtree Street NW, Suite # 225, Atlanta, GA 30303 )
• Boston (160 Federal Street, Suite #1700 , Boston , MA 02110 )
• Chicago (142 East Ontario St, Suite# 1700, Chicago, IL 60611 )
• Houston (2425 West Loop S Suite 330 Houston, TX 77027 )
• Los Angeles (8530 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 420, Beverly Hills, CA, 90211, USA )
• Miami (2655 S Le Jeune Road, Penthouse 1A, Coral Gables, FL 33134 )
• New York (145 West 45th St, Fl 5, New York NY 10036 )
• San Francisco (110 Sutter Street, 5th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104 )
• Seattle (2033 6th Ave, Suite 993, Seattle, WA 98121 )
• Washington (2033 6th Ave, Suite 993, Seattle, WA 98121 )

Our team works exclusively remotely. However, if you would like to get help at an office, feel free to stop by at one of the locations above. Please note: there is no phone you can call for an Application centre to assist you over the phone. You will have to come in person to speak with a staff member.

Anyway, you can always contact our immigration specialists in United States for online help with UK visas

You're not in United States? Select the country where you are now.

We help with all types of UK visas!

• Tourism / family visits
• Students visas
• Business visas
• Join family
• After refusal
• for tourism purposes
• to visit family or friends
• for child accompanied visits
• for study up to 6 months

You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months. If you need to visit the UK regularly over a longer period, you can apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa that lasts 2, 5 or 10 years.

If you are planning to take a short course of study in the UK, such as English language course, training course, part of an overseas course, a short period of research, medical, veterinary or dentistry electives, you should apply for a Short-term study visa . You can study for up to 6 months (or up to 11 months if you are studying an English language course)

If you are planning to take a full-time below degree or a degree level course of study in the UK school, college or university, you should apply for a Student visa (ex. Tier 4 General). There are some specific requirements for your course, money you need, your knowledge of English and documents you will need to apply for visa.

You can apply for a Business Visa if you want to visit the UK for any of the following reason:

• for exhibitions, conferences meetings and any visits where you have an official invitation
• for sport and entertainment events
• for medical treatment
• for an academic research

You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months (or up to 12 months if you are applying for an academic visit ). If you need to visit the UK regularly over a longer period, you can apply for a long-term Business visa that lasts 2, 5 or 10 years.

• Fiancee visa (or Settlement Marriage visa) - the applicant to come to the UK for up to 6 months, register a marriage and apply for a Settlement Spouse visa within the UK.
• Spouse visa - If you have already registered your marriage to a UK national you can apply for a Spouse visa, which is issued for 2.5 years and includes the right to work. It can be extended once in the UK and lead to an ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) and UK citizenship.
• EEA Family Permit / EU Settlement Scheme family permit - if your spouse is living and working in the UK and is an EU national but does not have UK citizenship.
• Unmarried partners visa - if you are not married officially to a UK national but have lived together for two years.
• Same-sex partners visa - If you are same-sex partners, have already registered your marriage to a UK national or for unmarried partners, if you have lived together for two years.
• Dependant child visa (or Settlement Child visa) - if you want to bring your dependant child to the UK.
• General work visa (Tier 2) can be applied for if the applicant has been offered a skilled job in the UK.
• Temporary Worker visa (Tier 5) - includes Charity Worker visa, Creative and Sporting visa, Government Authorised Exchange visa, International Agreement visa, Religious Worker visa, Seasonal Worker visa, Youth Mobility Scheme visa.
• Permitted Paid Engagement visa - if you are invited to the UK as an expert in your profession for up to 1 month.

If you have been refused a visa, don’t worry! It is possible to get Visa after refusal. Our agency will help you to understand the reasons for the refusal and helps to prepare convincing grounds for appeal.

Added Value Services with UK Visa Application Center in Canada

You can book and pay some Added Value Services if needed:

Phone support.

Our commercial agency specialises in paid UK visa consulting services .

You shouldn't call us if you:

• would like to know opening hours or address of TLSContact or VFSGlobal application centre in your home country, make online enquiry instead.
• want to track your UK visa application or passport status
• need help after you have submitted your application/documents
• want to renew your passport

If you need help with getting UK visa , please describe in brief your situation and a purpose of your visit, in order we could provide you with a phone number of the relevant department.

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Canada Visitor Visa

A Canada visitor visa is an official document that allows foreign nationals to visit Canada temporarily. It is also known as a Canada tourist visa or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and Canada tourist visa. A TRV proves that you’ve met all the requirements to come into Canada temporarily. It is attached to your passport.

Need help with your TRV application process? We’re here to help you in person, via the phone, or online. Call  0333 305 9375  for assistance with your Canada tourist visa process.

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Benefits of Choosing IAS ‘ Canada Immigration Lawyers

When it comes to obtaining a Canada visa or permit, IAS Canada immigration lawyers are well-equipped to help you.

With IAS’ track record of successfully helping clients visit or immigrate to Canada successfully, we can help you achieve your goal.

Our dedicated immigration lawyers provide our services through a comprehensive and personalised approach. With IAS, you enjoy:

Compassionate support from an experienced immigration lawyer dedicated to your success

Support in gathering supporting documents and completing a high-quality application.

Confidence that your case is being handled by an experienced team.

In-house document checks done by lawyers who are well-versed in  immigration matters.

Services we Provide

Need help with an immigration issue? Book a one-to-one advice session with one of our legal caseworkers.

We can complete your visa application on your behalf, taking the stress and hassle out of the process.

Need to submit an application quickly? We can help you complete and send it off in as little as 24 hours.

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal with our legal support and guidance.

What is Canada Visitor Visa?

Millions visit Canada yearly for varying purposes. A Canada visitor visa allows non-citizens and non-permanent residents of Canada to enter the country legally for a specific duration and purpose. Visitors may be permitted into Canada for the following reasons:

• To visit family.
• To visit for a holiday (vacation).
• To conduct business.
• To assume a diplomatic post.
• To join a family member assuming a diplomatic post.
• To join a vessel.
• To get the Canada-Ukraine authorisation for emergency travel.

Everyone visiting Canada for a temporary stay will need a Canadian visitor visa to come, except those from visa-exempt countries. Nationals of certain countries only require an electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).

As a British citizen, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is all you need if you’re visiting for a short period by air. You also need an eTA when transiting through the country. You do not need an eTA if you’re entering the country via land or sea.

However, if you have a different type of British nationality or you’re entering Canada to work or study, you’ll need to apply for a valid visa (a valid study permit, work permit, or permanent residence).

Also, US citizens do not need a tourist visa or eTA to enter Canada.

Canadian permanent residents and dual citizens (such as British-Canadians) are not issued visitor visas. All they need is a valid Canadian passport to enter the country.

You can apply for a Canada visitor visa online or in person, but you must obtain it before you travel to Canada. Canada does not issue a temporary resident visa on arrival.

Types of Canada Visitor Visa

Canadian visitor visas are of two types: single entry and multiple entry visas. A single entry visa is issued in specific situations. All visa applicants are, by default, considered for a multiple entry visa.

Multiple entry visas grants you unlimited entry into Canada for not more than six months at a time. It is valid for ten years or a month before the expiration of your passport, depending on which comes first. You need to arrive in Canada on or before the expiration date of your visa.

Meanwhile, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is valid for five years or upon your passport’s expiration.

A single entry visa, however, allows you to enter Canada once. The eligibility requirements for a single entry visa are:

• If the purpose of your entry to Canada is limited (for example, for an official visit by a foreign national). This also qualifies you for a fee-exemption.
• If you’re participating in a special event in Canada.
• If there are valid country-specific guidelines and procedures in place.

In most cases, you will need to apply again for a new visa once you’ve left Canada.

Who is Eligible for a Canada Visitor Visa?

You must fulfil specific basic requirements to qualify for a Canada tourist visa. To be eligible for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), you must:

• Have a valid passport.
• Have no underlying health issues.
• Be fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
• Have no immigration-related convictions or criminal record.
• Provide proof of ties to your home country (job, family, financial assets, or home) to show that you intend to return to your home country.
• Convince the immigration officer that you do not intend to stay longer than the period specified in your visa.
• Provide proof of funds to show you have sufficient funds for your trip. The funds you need depend on your arrangements, whether you’re staying with family or in a hotel.
• State your intended duration of stay and temporary residence.

Not everyone can obtain a Canada tourist visa. Some persons may be inadmissible for specific reasons. You might not qualify for a visitor visa if you:

• Have a criminal record.
• Have been involved in organised crime.
• Have been involved in human rights violations.

Some persons might also be inadmissible for health and medical reasons. The COVID-19 pandemic has made health and medical checks more stringent. A person may be denied a tourist visa due to medical reasons if:

• They are considered a threat to public health.
• They are considered a threat to public safety.
• There is an excessive demand on health or social services

You might also be required to take a medical examination as a part of the application process. Even if you’re fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you’ll still be required to take a test at the airport upon arrival. Your VAC will notify you of the testing and quarantine requirements.

What Documents are Required for the Canada Visitor Visa Application?

The documents required for your TRV application depend on the purpose for your visit.

Note : Effective October 1, 2022, COVID-19 border entry restrictions and testing requirements were removed, regardless of citizenship and vaccination status.

You must also qualify for the fully vaccinated traveller exemption. To qualify, you must have taken two doses of COVID-19 travel accepted vaccine, a combination of two accepted vaccines, or the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine at least 14 days before your departure date.

The current travel accepted vaccines are Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD, Moderna, Novavax, Covaxin, Janssen ( Johnson & Johnson), Sinopharm, Sinovac, and Medicago Covifenz.

You are required to upload a proof of your vaccination status online via your ArriveCAN account. This must be done before your travel date.

If you are fully vaccinated, here are the documents required for your visitor visa application:

• Canada Tourist Visa application form.
• Upload a proof of your COVID-19 vaccination status to ArriveCAN.
• ArriveCAN receipt (paper or electronic).
• Valid passport with an expiration date of not less than six months.
• Two white background recent passport photographs (not older than 90 days).
• Completed Family Information form (IMM 5645).
• If a family member is applying on your behalf, then the use of a representative (IMM 5476) form will be required.
• Minor children’s document (needed if a child under 18 years is travelling with a single parent, a friend, a relative, or alone).
• A letter of invitation from your friend or family that you are visiting them.

Other documents that may be required to prove your eligibility for a tourist visa include:

• Bank account statement (to prove you have enough money for your trip and duration of stay).
• Visitor’s itinerary such as flight details, hotel booking, and events registration.
• Travel history and previously issued visas.
• Bank account statement of your family or friend if you’re visiting them.
• Authority to release your personal information to a designated individual (IMM 5475).

It is essential to submit all the necessary travel documents for your application. Ensure you provide complete information in your application package. Also, fill out the Document Checklist (IMM 5484) and submit it alongside your application form and other required documents.

How do I Apply for Canada Visitor Visa?

You can apply for a Canada tourist visa online or on paper at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

To complete your online application for a visitor visa, you’ll need to create electronic copies of your supporting documents. A scanner or camera will help you do that. You also need a debit or credit card to pay the application fees.

If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you’ll not be able to apply online when using any of the following documents:

• Alien’s passports for stateless persons.
• Other refugee documents for non-citizens.

If you’re using any of these documents for your application, you won’t be considered in an online application. You must visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) for a paper application.

It’s advisable to wait until you’re eligible for a Canadian tourist visa before applying. It will reduce the chances of having your application rejected.

Also, note that specific reasons for visiting are essential to your eligibility.

Our expert immigration lawyers can assist you with your Canada Visitor Visa application.

Providing Your Biometrics

If you’re applying for a TRV for the first time and are between the ages of 14 – 79, you’ll need to provide your biometric data as part of the application process.

Usually, your biometric data verification comes up after you have submitted your application and paid the biometric fees. You’ll then wait for the Canadian Government to contact you and tell you what to do next.

The biometrics fee usually is 85 CAD per person.

You’ll have to schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to register your biometric data. There are numerous VACs worldwide, and most countries have at least one. The following information will be collected from you during your appointment at the visa office:

• Biography data: This includes your personal details such as your full name, sex, date of birth, and other necessary details as highlighted on the biographic page of your travel document.
• 10 Fingerprints: All your fingerprints will be captured using an electronic fingerprint capture device during the biometric data collection.
• Photograph: Your digital photograph of you will be taken.

You’re typically not required to submit your biometric data if you are applying for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).

What is the Cost and Time of Processing a Canada Visitor Visa?

Cost of processing a canada visitor visa.

How much it will cost to process a Canada tourist visa depends on the visa you’re applying for. Whether individual visitor visa, family tourist visa, visitor visa extension, or visitor status restoration.

A Canadian visitor visa costs CAN$100 per person. Adding the CAN$85 biometrics fee will make a total of CAN$185. You will also have to pay CAN$45 for passport processing.

Here are the costs of obtaining Canada visitor visas.

How long will it take for my Canada Visitor Visa to be Processed?

The wait time for Canada visitor visa processing varies greatly. The time it will take for your tourist visa to be processed depends on the country you are applying from. Typically, it takes a few weeks to a few months for your visa to be ready.

You can use the  application processing time checker tool  on the official Government website to check time estimates.

Disclaimer:  A valid Canadian visitor visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Your access is to be decided by the border service officers at the port of entry. They determine if you meet all the requirements for admission into the country.

Canada Visitor Visa Extension

Whether single or multiple entries, visitor visas allow foreign nationals to live legally in Canada for six months at a time. Your legal status expires at the end of six months (if you’re still in the country), and you must leave Canada. If you wish to extend your stay beyond six months, you must apply for an extension while your temporary resident status is still valid.

You should apply for an extension at least 30 days before your legal status expires and it will cost CAN$100. If your current visa expires while your extension is still being processed, you can remain in Canada while waiting for the outcome. This state is called Implied Status.

You’ll be issued a Visitor Record if your extension application is successful.

Visitor Record

A visitor record is a document that states how long you can stay in Canada. Unlike a visitor visa, the visitor record is an independent document that is not attached to your passport. It is issued by IRCC when your extension application is approved. It usually carries an expiry date – the date you must leave Canada.

A visitor visa is only available when you are inside Canada; it does not guarantee entry. If you leave Canada and want to reenter, you’ll need a valid entry document.

Find out how we can assist with your Canada Visitor Visa application.

Requirements for Visitor Visa Extension

To be eligible to apply for a visitor visa extension, you need to meet specific requirements. You have to:

• Be in Canada as at the time of your visa expiration.
• Ensure your passport is not expiring within the period of the extended stay.
• Pay the associated fee for Form IMM 5708.
• Ensure that any other permit will remain valid during the extended stay and won’t interfere with your application.

How to Apply for a Visitor Visa Extension

If you’re currently in Canada and want to stay longer than six months, you should apply for an extension. You can apply either online or on paper. It’s faster and easier to apply online; paper application is only necessary if, for some reason, you can’t apply online.

First, you must have an online IRCC account to apply.

You’ll also need a scanner to make electronic copies of your documents and a debit/credit card to pay the application fee.

While completing your application, you’ll be asked the following questions:

• “What would you want to do in Canada?” Select “visit”
• “What is your current country of residence?” select “Canada”

Follow the instructions and finish up the application, pay your fees, and submit the application.

Documents required for Visitor Visa Extension

The forms and documents you need to apply for a visitor record are listed below.

• Application to Change Conditions, Extend my stay, Remain in Canada as a Visitor or Temporary Resident Permit Holder (IMM 5708) Form.
• Use of Representative (IMM476) Form.
• Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM 5475) Form.
• Statutory declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409) (If applicable).
• Copies of valid passport pages. They must include your name, date of birth, passport number, expiry date, the stamp of your most recent entry into Canada, and all other marked pages.
• Payment receipts.
• Copies of your other travel or identity documents.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your extended stay.

Visitor Status Restoration

If you still need to stay in Canada at the expiry of your visitor record, you will be unable to apply for another visa extension. However, you can apply for a visitor status restoration within 90 days of your visitor visa expiration. Application after 90 days will be denied, and you’ll have to leave the country.

To qualify for restoration of status, you must:

• Apply within 90 days of losing your status: within 90 days of the expiry of your status document or within 90 days of the refusal of your extension application.
• Still meet the requirements of your stay.
• Not have failed to comply with any other conditions. For example, you must not have studied without a study permit.
• Proof that you are a genuine temporary resident and will leave Canada at the end of your stay.

You’re not eligible for restoration of status if more than 90 days have passed since your temporary resident status expiry or since the date of refusal on your application for extension of status.

You cannot work or study while your status restoration is being processed. If caught doing so, your restoration of status application will be refused, and you’ll be required to leave Canada.

You can only apply for restoration of status from within Canada. If you apply and leave the country, your application will be refused. You’ll have to apply for a new visa to enter Canada.

Restoration of Status Application Requirements

In applying for restoration of status, you’ll be required to:

• Pay restoration fee: The application to restore your status as a temporary resident costs CAN$229. If you’re also applying for a work or study permit, you’ll pay the corresponding permit fees in addition to the CAN$229.
• Provide the following details:
• Proof of current Status in Canada.
• Why you want to stay longer in Canada.
• When you’ll be leaving Canada, including departure time and date.
• Proof you’re able to support yourself financially in Canada during your stay.
• Proof that your stay in Canada is temporary.

Your restoration of status application can be refused for some of the following reasons:

• Failure to provide a valid reason for wanting to extend your stay in Canada.
• Failure to convince the immigration officer that you intend to return home. If the officer perceives that you intend to remain in Canada permanently, he might refuse your application.
• Failure to comply with the conditions of your temporary residency.
• Working without a work permit while your visa was valid.
• Working or studying upon expiration of your temporary resident status.

How Can IAS Help?

Applying for a Canada visitor visa can be a complex and draining process if you do not have the proper knowledge and information. Getting help from immigration experts is essential to avoid any mistake that can cause your application to be denied.

IAS Canadian immigration lawyers are here to assist you with your tourist visa application and any other visa-related challenge you might be facing. Our lawyers are highly trained and have decades of experience in immigration and emigration law. We’ll help you ensure your application process is smooth and error-free and give you the best chances of success.

For professional advice and assistance with your application, call us on  0333 305 9375  or contact us through our online form.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a canadian tourist visa valid.

A Canadian tourist visa is valid for ten years or a month to the expiration of your current passport.

Is Canada now open for tourist visas?

Canada still issues tourist visas, but only online applications are available. Paper application has been halted as part of COVID-19 health measures.

You’ll be required to take a COVID test upon arrival at the Canadian airport. You must also make arrangements to quarantine for 14 days when you arrive in Canada. It is compulsory whether you have COVID symptoms or not. You’re advised not to travel to Canada without a quarantine plan as you might not be granted entry.

How long can I stay in Canada as a visitor?

The Canada visitor visa allows you to stay in Canada for six months at a time. If you need to stay more than six months for any reason, you can apply for a visa extension before the six months elapses.

Can I bring my dependents to Canada with a tourist visa?

You can bring your dependents (such as your spouse and minor children) to Canada with a tourist visa. But, they’ll each have to fill out a separate application and pay their application fees. Your applications should be submitted together in one envelope at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) so that you’ll be processed as a family.

What kind of visa do I need when transiting through Canada?

You need either a visitor visa or a transit visa when transiting through Canada, depending on how long you’ll stay in the country and the mode of entry.

You need a visitor if you’re staying in the country for more than 48 hours during your travel. A visitor visa is also required for crossing the Canadian bother by land or sea. Only US citizens are exempted.

A transit visa is sufficient if you’re staying in Canada for less than 48 hours while travelling or boarding a connecting international flight at a Canadian airport.

How do I apply for an eTA to enter Canada?

You can apply for an eTA online on the official Canadian Government website in a simple process that takes just a few minutes. Your eTA approval will be sent to your mail between a few minutes and a few days (if additional documents are required) of your application. Ensure you fill in the correct passport number and get your approval before booking a flight. An eTA application costs CAN$7.

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Related pages for your continued reading

Canada Work Visas

Looking to work in Canada or obtain a work visa for your employee? We can help. Learn more here.

Canada Family Visas

IAS Canada immigration lawyers can help you reunite with your family in Canada. Contact us today for support.

Canada Study Visas

If you want to study in Canada, you may need to obtain a study visa. Click here to learn more about Canada’s study visas.

Canadian PR

There are a few routes to permanent residency in Canada. Click here to explore them.

Canada Visitor Visas

Are you looking to visit Canada for tourism, to see family/friends, for business meetings, or any other reason? Reach out to us to discuss.

Canada Business Visas

You may need a business visa in order to establish and run a business in Canada. Click here to learn more.

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Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

You need to give your biometrics.

In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply.

Find out who needs to give biometrics and how the new application process works.

Biometrics and the application process

We refer to your fingerprints and photo as biometrics. We collect biometrics for most applications. Find out what happens from when you submit your application to when you get to Canada and where biometrics fits in the process.

1. Apply for your visitor visa, study permit or work permit

If you want to visit, study or work in Canada, make sure you’re eligible to apply. Use our application guides to help fill out your application properly, then submit your application.

Avoid processing delays by sending us a complete application .

2. Get your fingerprints and photo taken

If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you probably need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics).You only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years to make repeat trips to Canada easier.

• You must pay the  biometrics fee   when you submit your application.  Otherwise you may experience delays.
• Get this done  as soon as you get the letter  from us that tells you to give biometrics.
• You have  30 days  to do this from the date on the letter.

Find out who needs to give , how to give , and  where to give your biometrics .

COVID-19: Biometrics deadline

Some biometrics collection sites are closed. If the site closest to you is closed, we’ll extend your deadline to give your biometrics. Find out how COVID-19 is affecting biometrics .

3. We process your application

After we get your biometrics, we start processing your application. See how long it takes to process your application.

If we need more information from you, we’ll contact you.

4. We make a decision on your application

When we finish reviewing your application, we let you know if you’re approved to come to Canada. If you are, we issue your documents.

If your application is refused, we send you a letter that tells you why.

5. You travel to Canada (if you’re approved)

Make sure you travel with the documents we gave you. This includes travel documents like a visitor visa, study or work permits or an eTA (electronically linked to your passport).

Airline staff and border service officers at ports of entry will ask to see your travel documents. If you don’t have them, you may not be able to board your flight to Canada.

Make sure children under 18 travel with the right documents .

6. We check your identity when you arrive in Canada

When you arrive, we check your identity to make sure that you are the same person who was approved to travel to Canada. We may use your biometrics to do this.

If we can’t verify your identity, you may be detained by a border services officer. These officers help protect the health and safety of Canadians.

If the officer determines that you’re not admissible to Canada, you won’t be allowed to enter Canada. If you came by air, you’ll have to take a return flight to where you came from.

7. You’re allowed to enter Canada

If you pass the identity check and meet the entry requirements , the border services officer stamps your passport and lets you know how long you can stay in Canada. You’re normally allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months.

Children under 18 must meet the same entry requirements as adults. The border services officer may ask minor children to show other documents depending on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone.

Basic entry requirements

You must meet some basic requirements to enter Canada. You must:

• 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.

Some people are not admissible 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 .

Biometrics fee

• Individual  applicant: CAD $85
• Families applying at the same time : maximum total fee of CAD $170
• Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff  who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of $CAD 255

You can apply online or on paper (in specific situations) for:

• visitor visas (also known as temporary resident visas)
• super visas (for parents and grandparents)
• transit visas

Apply online

Before you apply, make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

You must have both of these to apply online:

• access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents to upload
• a valid credit card to pay with

How you apply depends on what you apply for. Select the document you want to apply for to get instructions:

Visitor visa : Option 1 of 3

Apply for a visitor visa

Super visa (for parents and grandparents) : Option 2 of 3

Apply for a super visa

Transit visa : Option 3 of 3

Apply for a transit visa

Apply on paper (in specific situations)

Before you apply , make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

Read the instruction guide to get all the details to apply on paper.

• Instruction Guide 5256

Once you have read the guide, you can prepare your application package. You must select the country or territory from which you will apply to get your local visa office instructions.

Permanent residents of Canada

We do not issue temporary resident visas (TRV) to permanent residents (PR). If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) instead. If you meet the requirements for a PRTD, you can return to Canada as a PR.

If you no longer want to be a PR, or if you know you do not meet the requirements to keep your PR status, you can voluntarily give up (renounce) your PR status to apply for a TRV.

Application for Temporary Resident Visa

You can’t fill out and save the application form using your Internet browser. To use the form, you need to:

• Use your computer (Mac or PC). The form won’t open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones, etc.)
• Install Adobe Reader 10 (or higher)
• Download the PDF file to your computer . Save the file in a place you can remember.
• Make sure you use Adobe Reader to open the form. Sometimes if you try to open the form directly, it will use your Internet browser to try to open it.

Note: If you are applying online , you don’t need to print and sign the form. Leave the signature section empty.

Get the form

• Application for Temporary Resident Visa [IMM 5257] (PDF, 556.66 KB) June 2019

Having issues with the form?

• I can’t open my visa application form in PDF format. What can I do?
• After clicking the “validate” button on my visa application form, nothing happens and I don’t see the barcodes. Why is this happening?

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Advance travel planning and early visa application are important. If you plan to apply for a nonimmigrant visa to come to the United States as a temporary visitor, please review the current wait time for an interview using the tool below. Not all visa applications can be completed on the day of the interview; please read the information below for more details .

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Global Visa Wait Times

Wait Time for Interview

The estimated wait time to receive a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate and is based on workload and staffing and can vary from week to week. The information provided is an estimate and does not guarantee the availability of an appointment.

Wait Time for Interview Waiver

Wait times for applicants eligible for Interview Waiver are applicable only for locations where applicants schedule appointments to submit their passport and any required documents to a U.S. embassy or consulate. The wait time estimate does not account for the time required for a consular officer to adjudicate the application nor mailing time of passports or other documents. Refer to the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section where you will apply to determine your eligibility for Interview Waiver and for instructions for submitting a nonimmigrant visa application. Note that applicants must be a national or resident of the country where they are applying to be eligible to apply via Interview Waiver.

Qualifications for an Expedited Interview Appointment

Consular sections overseas may be able to expedite your interview date if there is an urgent, unforeseen situation such as a funeral, medical emergency, or school start date. The process to request an expedited nonimmigrant visa interview varies by location. You should refer to the instructions on the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section  where you will interview, or on their online appointment scheduling site. You will need to provide proof of the need for an earlier appointment.

In all cases : You must first submit the online visa application form (DS-160), pay the application fee, and schedule the first available interview appointment. Only at this point will a consular section consider your request for an expedited appointment.

Note: Travel for the purpose of attending weddings and graduation ceremonies, assisting pregnant relatives, participating in an annual business/academic/professional conference, or enjoying last-minute tourism does not qualify for expedited appointments. For such travel, please schedule a regular visa appointment well in advance.

These estimates do not include time required for administrative processing, which may affect some applications. When administrative processing is required, the timing will vary based on individual circumstances of each case.

There are only two possible outcomes for U.S. visa applications. The consular officer will either issue or refuse the visa. If a visa applicant has not established that he or she is eligible for a visa, the consular officer must refuse that application. However, some refused visa applications may require further administrative processing. When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview. The duration of the administrative processing will vary based on the individual circumstances of each case. At the conclusion of the administrative processing period, the consular officer might conclude that an applicant is now qualified for the visa for which he or she applied. The officer may also conclude that the applicant remains ineligible for a visa. Visa applicants are reminded to apply early for their visas, well in advance of the anticipated travel date.

Important Notice:   Except in cases of emergency travel (i.e. serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family), before making inquiries about status of administrative processing, applicants should wait at least 180 days from the date of interview or submission of supplemental documents, whichever is later.

About Visa Processing Wait Times – Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants

Information about nonimmigrant visa wait times for interviews and visa processing time frames are shown on this website, as well as on U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites worldwide. It should be noted that the “Wait Times for a Nonimmigrant Visa to be Processed” information by country does not include time required for administrative processing. Processing wait time also does not include the time required to return the passport to applicants, by either courier services or the local mail system.

In addition, it is important to thoroughly review all information on the specific  Embassy or Consulate Visa Section website  for local procedures and instructions, such as how to make an interview appointment. Embassy and Consulate websites will also explain any additional procedures for students, exchange visitors and those persons who need an earlier visa interview appointment.

About Wait Times

* Calendar days refers to every day of the week, including days when embassies are closed (such as weekends and holidays).

† Work days refers only to days when the embassy is open and does not include weekends and holidays.      

‡ A, G, and NATO applications are excluded from these wait times, as they are processed separately.

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Check processing times

Our processing times show how long it took us to process most applications in the past for each application type. As we process more applications and clear our inventories, the numbers will change. The numbers shown may not reflect how long it will take us to process an application you submit today. Find out how we calculate processing times .

If you’ve already applied , learn how to check your application status .

Select an application type:

Which temporary residence application?

Where are you applying from?

• Afghanistan
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• China (People’s Republic of)
• Comoros Island
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Czech Republic
• Democractic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa)
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Hong Kong SAR
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia (Federated States of)
• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• North Korea
• Palestinian Authority (Gaza)
• Palestinian Authority (West Bank)
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• Republic of Congo (Brazzaville)
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland
• Timor-Leste (Timor oriental)
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• US Virgin Islands
• Visitor visa (from inside Canada)
• Visitor extension (Visitor record)

Where do your parents or grandparents live?

• Study permit (from outside Canada)
• Study permit (from inside Canada)
• Study permit extension
• Work permit (from inside Canada)
• Work permit from inside Canada (initial and extension)
• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)

What season did you apply for?

• Last season
• Current season
• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Which economic class application?

• Atlantic Immigration Pilot
• Atlantic Immigration Program
• Canadian Experience Class

Which caregiver program?

When did you apply?

How much work experience did you have?

• Less than 24 months
• 24 months or more
• Less than 12 months
• 12 months or more

How much work experience will you have when you apply?

Online via Express Entry?

• Self-employed persons (Federal)
• Quebec Business Class
• Skilled workers (Federal)
• Skilled trades (Federal)
• Skilled workers (Quebec)
• Start-up visa

Who are you sponsoring?

Where in Canada will you be living?

If you’ll be living in Quebec, due to the Canada–Quebec Accord, the Government of Quebec also needs to process your application. Because of this, we show a separate processing time for this province.

• Outside Quebec

Where does the child live?

Where does the adopted child or relative live?

Which refugee program?

• Protected persons and convention refugees (in Canada)
• Dependents of protected persons
• Humanitarian and Compassionate cases

Which type of citizenship application?

• Citizenship grant
• Citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship)
• Resumption of citizenship
• Renunciation of citizenship
• Search of citizenship records

Did you submit a PR card application or solemn declaration?

• Yes, I am renewing or replacing my card, or I sent a solemn declaration
• No, I am waiting for my first card

Which type of document?

• Verification of Status
• Replacement of valid temporary resident documents
• Amendments of immigration documents
• Amendments of valid temporary resident documents

Last update: Error loading date. Try again. Updated weekly

Processing times service

We are committed to processing most complete applications within this time.

Processing times will vary based on:

• the type of application submitted
• if the application is complete
• how quickly we expect to process applications we’ve already received
• how easily we can verify your information
• how long you take to respond to any requests or concerns
• other factors

Problem with the online application

Some people applying for a study permit may have trouble using the online application. For example, if you’re currently a visitor in Canada and your spouse or common-law partner is a low-skilled worker, you may need to apply on paper.

Acknowledgment of receipt

You’ll get an acknowledgement of receipt letter or email  after  we receive your application  and  check that it’s  complete .

Processing times for applications outside Canada and the United States

Add 3 to 4 months to account for mailing time if you

• live outside Canada and the U.S. and
• are applying through a Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate

Add 6 to 8 months to processing time if you

• are applying for a minor (under 18) who lives outside Canada and the U.S. and
• sent the application directly to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia

Processing times TR

Processing times will vary based on

• the type of application

Learn how processing times are calculated .

Processing times PR

Your processing time may also be affected if more people apply to immigrate to Canada than we can bring in each year.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Canada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Canada’s High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK Health Security Agency) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Travel to Canada

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for passengers entering Canada. Avoid travelling if you have symptoms of COVID-19. See the Government of Canada’s website for more information on COVID-19 and travel.

Public spaces and services

The Government of Canada recommends that all travellers wear a face mask on public transport.

You may be asked to wear a face mask indoors, such as in hospitals or on public transport. You may need proof of vaccination to visit settings such as care homes.

Local authorities in Canada can introduce restrictions or measures at short notice. Comply with the rules and advice of the local authorities. Check the COVID-19 guidance for each province and territory .

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Visa requirements

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada – not both.

You do not need a visa for short visits (normally up to six months). You will need an eTA instead. Check entry requirements and find out if you need a visa or an eTA for your visit using this tool.

You may need to provide fingerprints and photos at a visa application centre to apply for permanent residence or a study or work permit. Find out if you need to give biometrics. If you do need to give biometrics, see the list of biometrics collection points .

When you arrive, you must show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends.

Contact Canada’s High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)

You must get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter or transit Canada by air, unless you’re exempt. Read the list of exemptions on the ETA website . If you enter Canada by land or sea, you don’t need an eTA. However, you must travel with acceptable travel documents and identification .

If you have British-Canadian dual nationality, you cannot apply for an eTA. You need a valid Canadian passport instead.

The eTA website has information about the eTA system and how to apply .

Visa and eTA scams

Some  unauthorised websites  charge for submitting visa applications. These websites are not associated with the Government of Canada.

If you think you may have been a victim of a scam, use the eTA Check Status tool to confirm if your eTA is valid. If it has been 72 hours since you applied, and you have not received a confirmation of your application, complete this enquiry form .

Transiting through Canada

You must have a valid Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to transit Canada, unless you are exempt.

If you have questions, contact:

• your airline
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• your nearest Canadian high commission, embassy or consulate

Find out more about transiting Canada .

Travelling with children

If only one parent is present, carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to see if there are any concerns about child abduction.

For further information, check with Canada’s High Commission in the UK or the Canada Border Services Agency .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be taken into - and out - of Canada . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Banned food products will be confiscated and you could be fined. Check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website for more information.

If you visited a farm, or had contact with wild animals before entering Canada, and intend to visit a farm during your stay, you must complete the relevant section in your Customs Declaration Card. For more information, see the Government of Canada’s website on biosecurity .

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