10 Frequently Asked Questions by Visitors to Canada

1. How long can I stay in Canada as a visitor?

Most visitors can stay in Canada for up to six months from the day they enter or until their passport expires, whichever comes first. The exact date by which you must leave Canada will be indicated by a stamp on your passport or a document provided by a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer. If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for an extension.

2. What is the difference between a single-entry and a multiple-entry visa?

A single-entry visa allows you to enter Canada once, while a multiple-entry visa permits repeated entry as long as the visa remains valid. Multiple-entry visas are valid for up to 10 years or one month before your passport expires. Each entry allows a stay of up to six months.

3. Can I fill out one visa application for my whole family if we are traveling together?

No, each family member must complete and sign their visitor visa application. However, all applications can be submitted together in the same envelope with one payment receipt. Parents or guardians can assist children in filling out their forms, and documents for those under 18 must be signed by a parent or guardian.

4. Is there any way I can help a friend or family member visit Canada?

Yes, you can provide a letter of invitation detailing how you will assist the visa applicant, such as offering accommodation. This letter can support their application but does not guarantee approval.

5. Do I need a medical exam to get a visitor visa?

It depends on your length of stay and activities in Canada. Generally, visitors staying for six months or less do not need a medical exam unless working in specific public health-related jobs. Those staying longer or meeting certain conditions, like living in designated countries for six months or more, may require a medical exam.

6. Is a visitor visa the same thing as a visitor record?

No, a visitor visa allows you to enter Canada as a visitor, while a visitor record is issued to extend or restrict your stay. A visitor record is provided by CBSA officers or issued after an extension or status restoration application is approved.

7. I got a new passport but have a valid visa in my old one. Can I use the visa in my old passport?

Yes, you can travel to Canada with the valid visa in your old passport, but you must bring both the old passport and your new valid passport. IRCC recommends obtaining a new visitor visa in your new passport to avoid processing delays.

8. How can I extend my stay as a visitor?

You must submit biometrics and apply for a visitor record to extend your stay. This document allows you to extend your stay as a visitor, a worker authorized to work without a permit, or a student authorized to study without a permit. Detailed steps can be found on the IRCC website.

9. Can I file an appeal if my visitor visa is denied?

There is no appeal process for a visitor visa denial. You can re-apply, but only if your situation has changed or you have new information that may affect the outcome.

10. Do I need a visa to travel through Canada to another country?

It depends on your nationality and travel plans. Visa-required travelers might need a visitor visa or a transit visa based on their transit duration and mode of travel. Visa-exempt travelers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to transit through Canada by air, but not for other modes of transportation.