North America is a popular destination for travelers, students, labor migrants, and remote workers. To enter the country, foreigners need to obtain various types of permits. This requirement doesn't apply to holders of eTAs or Schengen visas, which allow them to stay for up to six months. Citizens of countries that have agreements with Canada can cross borders freely.
Immigration authorities generally welcome global citizens, but they only stamp passports after the purpose of the visit has been justified. During the inspection, applicants must convince the consulate and the border officer that their activities will contribute positively to the country’s economic, technological, or cultural development. foreigners seeking the appropriate visa can submit their applications through Canada’s official website, an immigration office (IRCC), or an accredited center.
Methods for obtaining visas
Processing times, which can range from 2 weeks to 2 months, are not explicitly stated on embassy or visa center websites. To prevent delays, it's recommended that applicants submit their dossiers well in advance. After verifying the authenticity of the documents and the applicant's trustworthiness, the inspector determines the visa's validity period, providing a flexible process for applicants.
Relocators enter Canada with either single-entry or multiple-entry permits. Single-entry visas include the Visitor visa for tourists. Long-term visas are issued for private visits lasting 90 to 180 days, with the option to extend. These include student visas and work permits, such as the Open Work Permit (OWP) and employer-specific Work Permit. The OWP is granted to spouses or sponsors of relocators for the duration specified in the visa, while the Work Permit is issued at an employer's request. Expats with multiple-entry visas can cross the border several times a year, allowing them to stay in Canada for six months over ten years. The Permanent Resident Visa (PRV) is the top priority for expats seeking permanent residency, as it allows the holder to live in Canada indefinitely.
Freelancer visa
Canada has launched a new program to attract experienced IT professionals, well-off freelancers, entrepreneurs, startup founders, and remote workers from foreign companies. This program is unique in that it doesn’t impose income requirements or limit the number of relocators through quotas. Digital nomads can work in the country for up to six months and look for jobs with local companies during their stay.
To apply for a Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need to:
- Complete a resume
- Provide a bank statement
- Include copies of pay stubs
- Present a work permit and employment contract with a foreign company
- Show a hotel booking
How much do visas cost?
The cost depends on the type of permit and its duration. The cost of a single-entry tourist visa in Canadian dollars (C$) is 100, a multiple-entry visa (10 years) is 500, a Short-term Work Permit is 155, and a Long-term Work Permit is 500. The cost of a student visa is 150. The Digital Nomad Visa is 490. The visa center service fee is 30. Fees may vary based on currency exchange rates.Types of visas
Canada offers a range of permits for various purposes, each with different durations.
Popular types include:
- Visitor Visa: ideal for sightseeing popular routes, attending the Northern Lights festival, or viewing waterfalls.
- Work Permit: allows you to work legally in Canada on federal or regional projects.
- Business Visa: designed for foreigners planning business or commercial activities in Canada.
- Student Visa: granted to young people for educational purposes upon invitation from academic institutions.
Student visa
Each year, the country welcomes 130,000 young people. University graduates receive diplomas as specialists, bachelors, or masters. Additionally, students come for internships, skill development, and exchange programs.
Foreigners can obtain long-term permits based on a Study Permit (SP), which covers the duration of their studies plus an additional 3 months after completion. This extra time allows new graduates to find employment and apply for residency.
Tourist visa
Foreigners traveling to Canada are issued a "Visitor Visa" sticker for their passports, allowing a stay of up to 6 months. While tourists cannot work, they can participate in short-term studies. Border officials will record the departure dates upon entry.
Business visa
This visa is ideal for attending conferences or exhibitions, presenting startup projects, exchanging experiences with business partners, and advancing professional growth. Investors and entrepreneurs also use it to expand their business networks or establish new companies in the country.
Permits are issued based on an invitation from the host and printed on official letterhead. The invitation should include details about the legal entity, registration certificate, and tax declaration. To support the purpose of the trip, applicants should include copies of contracts or event tickets.
Work visa
Highly skilled professionals come to the country to join the federal Skilled Worker program, while those in trades can apply through the Skilled Trades program.
Canadian employers particularly value migrants who have previously worked in the country. These individuals often apply for the Experience Class, participating in an online professional competition through the Express Entry system. Successful applicants receive a job offer and permanent residency immediately. Work permits are issued based on a job offer from an employer who is a guarantor and sponsor. Upon arrival, the employer submits a permit request to the Ministry of Labour. This results in residency being granted for either 1 year or the duration of the work contract.
Required documents
Applicants need to translate their documents into English or French, have them certified, and compile their dossiers, following the checklist on the website. The document requirements vary depending on the visa category, but the application forms are the same for all types. Applications to the IRCC are submitted online.
Here’s the main package of required documents:
- Valid passport
- Completed IMM 5409 и IMM 5476 forms
- Copy of invitation or permit
- Digital photos (PDF file, 4 MB)
- Scans of previous visas, if available
- Proof of relationship with family members
- Employment letter with monthly income details
- The deposit amount is calculated at $70 per day or a sponsorship letter
- Evidence of the trip’s purpose
- Payment receipt for the application fee
Tourists should include itinerary plans, hotel reservations, and tickets. To demonstrate their intention to return home, they should provide proof of property ownership, business registration for sole proprietorships or companies, and documentation for minor children. If the trip is for a business meeting, they should present invitations and event programs.
Recent changes in Canada visa regulations
In September 2024, the Canadian government will limit the number of foreigners to stabilize and enhance the immigration system. This change will affect students, skilled foreign workers, and refugees. Authorities are reducing the percentage of temporary residents from 6.2% to 5%, and by the end of the year, there will be 2.5 million expatriates living in the country.
A new strategic immigration plan, set to last until 2026, has been introduced to support international business. It includes measures to review and simplify express entry rules, shorten visa processing times, and improve startup conditions. Minister Miller stated, “These changes will help manage the situation more effectively.”