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A Complete Guide to IRCC’s Eligibility Tool & Travel Scenarios

Visiting Canada can be an exciting opportunity, whether you're coming for tourism, to meet family, attend a conference, or transit through a Canadian airport. However, before you pack your bags, it's crucial to determine whether you need a visa, an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), or no travel document at all.

To help travelers make this determination, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides a free and easy-to-use online tool:

This article explains:

  • What the tool does
  • How it works
  • Step-by-step instructions
  • Detailed outcomes based on different traveler profiles
  • Official links to apply
  • Application procedures

What is the IRCC eTA/Visa Eligibility Tool?

The tool, called "Do you want to visit Canada?", is a short questionnaire designed to tell you:

  • Whether you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
  • Whether you need a visitor visa (temporary resident visa)
  • Or whether you're exempt from needing either

This tool considers the following factors:

  • Your country of citizenship
  • Your mode of travel to Canada (air, land, sea)
  • Your immigration status (Canadian PR, U.S. Green Card holder, etc.)
  • Whether you hold any U.S. visas or Canadian permits

Step-by-Step: How to Use the Tool

        1. Go to the official page

        2. Click on “Find out if you need a visa”

        3. Answer a few simple questions:

  • What country are you a citizen of?
  • How are you entering Canada (air/land/sea)?
  • Are you a permanent resident or citizen of another country (like the U.S. or Canada)?
  • Do you have a valid U.S. visa or previous Canadian visa?

        4. The tool will instantly tell you:

  • Whether you can travel with an eTA
  • Whether you need to apply for a visa
  • Whether you're exempt from both

It also provides links to apply directly if needed.

Scenarios for Travelers from Around the World

Let’s break down every major scenario you might fall under, depending on your nationality and immigration status:

1. You are from a Visa-Exempt Country & Flying to Canada

You Are from a Visa-Exempt Country & Flying to Canada

If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country, you do not need a visa to enter Canada for short visits. However, if you plan to fly to Canada, you must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding your flight.

Who Is Considered Visa-Exempt?

Citizens of the following countries are generally visa-exempt for short visits to Canada:

Examples:

  • United Kingdom
  • Australia
  • Japan
  • France
  • Germany
  • South Korea
  • Ireland
  • Singapore
  • New Zealand
  • Spain
  • Norway
  • Switzerland
  • Sweden
  • Italy
  • Belgium
  • Denmark
  • Finland

and most other EU and Schengen Area countries.

🔗 See the full list here:

Visa-Exempt Countries – IRCC


Why Do You Need an eTA?

Although you do not need a visa, Canada requires pre-screening of travelers arriving by air from visa-exempt countries. That’s where the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) comes in.

An eTA is:

  • A simple, low-cost online authorization
  • Electronically linked to your passport
  • Check with airlines before you board your flight to Canada
  • Not stamped or printed; it’s digital

eTA Summary Details

Feature Information
Cost CAD $7 (non-refundable)
Validity 5 years or until your passport expires
Applies To Air travel only (not needed for land/sea)
Processing Time Usually a few minutes; some take up to 72 hrs
Purpose of Visit Tourism, transit, business, family visits
Required Documents Valid passport, email address, credit/debit card
Application Method Online only at official IRCC website


How to Apply for an eTA (Step-by-Step)

1. Visit the official IRCC website: Apply for an eTA

2. Complete the application form with:

  • Personal and passport details
  • Purpose of travel
  • Employment history

3. Pay the CAD $7 fee using a credit or debit card

4. Submit the form

5. Check your email for confirmation

Most eTAs are approved within minutes, but in some cases, you may be asked to submit additional documents. Always apply at least a few days before travel.

Important Notes

  • The eTA is valid only for air travel.

If you are entering by land or sea (e.g., from the U.S. or on a cruise), you do not need an eTA.

  • If your passport expires, your eTA becomes invalid, and you must reapply with your new passport.
  • You must use the same passport for your eTA and flight check-in.
  • Having an eTA does not guarantee entry. Border officers will ask about:
    • Your purpose of visit
    • Financial support
    • Return plans

Travel Purposes Allowed with eTA

You can enter Canada with an eTA for the following reasons (up to 6 months per visit):

  • Tourism (vacation, sightseeing, visiting family or friends)
  • Short-term business (meetings, conferences, negotiations)
  • Transit through a Canadian airport en route to another country
  • Short-term study (up to 6 months, without a study permit)

You cannot work or study long-term in Canada with just an eTA. You need a work or study permit for that.

What to Show at the Airport

  • Your passport (the same one used to get the eTA)
  • Airline staff will verify your eTA status electronically before check-in
  • No paper copy of your eTA is needed, but keeping your confirmation email is helpful

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don’t apply for an eTA if you are from a visa-required country — it will be refused
  • Don’t use someone else’s passport to apply
  • Don’t assume approval is automatic — wait for the confirmation email
  • Don’t book non-refundable flights before your eTA is approved


Summary

If you're from a visa-exempt country and planning to fly to Canada:

  • You must apply for an eTA online before boarding
  • It costs just CAD $7 and is valid for 5 years
  • It's electronically linked to your passport
  • It allows you to enter Canada for tourism, transit, or business, up to 6 months per visit
  • You do not need an eTA for land or sea travel


2. You are from a Visa-Exempt Country & Arriving by Land or Sea

If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country and you plan to enter Canada by land or sea, you are subject to different rules than those arriving by air.

Good News: No eTA or Visa Required

Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) requirement applies only to travelers arriving by air. If you are entering by land or sea, you do not need:

  • An eTA
  • A Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

This applies even if your country of citizenship normally requires an eTA for air travel.

Who Does This Apply To?

You are covered under this category if:

  • You are a citizen of a visa-exempt country, such as:

United Kingdom

Australia

France

Germany

Japan

South Korea

Singapore

New Zealand

Luxembourg

Italy

Netherlands

Switzerland

Sweden

Spain

Ireland

Belgium

Finland

Denmark

Austria

Norway

Malta

Cyprus

Iceland

(and many more)

  • You are arriving in Canada:
    • By land, such as driving from the U.S.
    • By sea, such as on a cruise ship, ferry, or private boat


Documents You Must Carry

While you don’t need an eTA or visa, you must still prove your identity and nationality at the Canadian border. So, you should carry:

  1. A valid passport (the same one that grants you visa-exempt status)
  2. Any supporting travel documents (optional but helpful):

    • Hotel reservations
    • Return ticket
    • Proof of funds
    • Letter of invitation (if visiting someone)

Who This Does NOT Apply To

This exemption does not apply to:

  • Citizens of visa-required countries (e.g., India, Nigeria, Pakistan) — they always need a visa
  • Travelers entering Canada by air — even visa-exempt citizens must get an eTA
  • Permanent residents of visa-exempt countries — check your country’s specific policy
  • Individuals with criminal inadmissibility or past immigration issues


What You Can Do as a Visitor

As a visa-exempt traveler entering by land or sea, you are typically allowed to:

  • Stay in Canada for up to 6 months
  • Travel for tourism, family visits, or business meetings
  • Transit through Canada to another destination

You may not:

  • Work in Canada without a work permit
  • Study long-term (over 6 months) without a study permit
  • Extend your stay without applying to IRCC

What to Expect at the Border

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers will verify:

  • Your identity and citizenship
  • The purpose of your visit
  • Your intent to return home
  • Whether you have sufficient funds

They may stamp your passport with an entry date or issue a document indicating your authorized stay.

Summary Table

Entry Mode From Visa-Exempt Country eTA Required? Visa Required?
Air Travel Yes Yes No
Land Travel Yes No No
Sea Travel Yes No No


Final Tips for Land and Sea Arrivals

  • Make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada
  • Have clear travel plans to show if questioned at the border
  • Do not overstay beyond the authorized period (usually 6 months)
  • Do not attempt to work or study without the proper permit

If you plan to enter by air next time, remember that you will need to apply for an eTA in advance, even if you were allowed entry by land or sea without one.


3. You are from a Visa-Required Country

Many countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America are classified as visa-required by Canada. This means that citizens of these countries cannot travel to Canada without first obtaining either:

  • A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) — also called a Visitor Visa

OR

  • An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) under special conditions only

Countries in this category include (but are not limited to):

India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Ghana, Philippines, Brazil, China, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, etc.

Scenario A: You’re Flying and Qualify for eTA Under Exemption

Canada offers a special eTA exemption for travelers from certain visa-required countries ONLY if they meet specific conditions.

Who is Eligible?

You are eligible to apply for an eTA (instead of a TRV) if all of the following are true:

  1. You are from a visa-required country, AND
  2. You are flying to Canada (air travel only), AND
  3. You either:

    • Hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa (e.g., B1/B2, H1B, F1), OR
    • Have held a Canadian visitor visa (TRV) in the last 10 years

This rule was introduced to simplify short-term travel for trusted travelers with a proven history of entering Canada or the U.S.

Required Documents:

  • Your valid passport (from your country of citizenship)
  • A valid U.S. non-immigrant visa OR evidence of a previous Canadian visa (system pulls this automatically)
  • Payment of CAD $7 for the eTA

Important Conditions:

Condition Requirement
Mode of travel Air travel only
U.S. visa or past Canada visa Must be valid (U.S.) or within 10 yrs (Canada)
eTA Processing Time Usually within minutes, sometimes 1–3 days

 If you try to use this eTA to enter by land or sea, you will be denied entry and may be turned back at the border.

Scenario B: You Don’t Qualify for eTA — Apply for a Visitor Visa (TRV)

If you do not hold a U.S. visa and have never had a Canadian visa in the past 10 years, you are not eligible for an eTA, even if you are flying.

You must apply for a Visitor Visa (TRV).

About the Visitor Visa (TRV)

A Temporary Resident Visa allows you to enter Canada for tourism, family visit, business, or short-term studies.

Fee: CAD $100

📎 Required Documents:

  1. Valid passport
  2. Completed application form (IMM 5257)
  3. Photographs (as per Canadian specifications)
  4. Biometrics (fingerprints and photo — required for most applicants)
  5. Travel itinerary or flight bookings (optional but useful)
  6. Proof of financial support (bank statements, payslips, sponsor letter)
  7. Purpose of visit letter (optional but strongly recommended)
  8. Letter of invitation (if staying with someone in Canada)

Application Process

  1. Create an online IRCC account: IRCC Sign-In Portal
  2. Fill out the visa application form (IMM 5257)
  3. Upload all supporting documents
  4. Pay the CAD $100 application fee
  5. Book a biometric appointment at your local Visa Application Centre (VAC)
  6. Wait for visa processing (usually 2–8 weeks, depending on country)

Entry Conditions

Having a TRV or eTA does not guarantee entry. At the port of entry in Canada, there will be a border services officer who will evaluate:

  • Your purpose of travel
  • Your financial capacity
  • Your ties to your home country
  • Your return plans

They may limit your stay, usually up to 6 months, and may stamp your passport with a date.

Quick Comparison: eTA vs Visitor Visa for Visa-Required Countries


Feature eTA (Special Eligibility Only) Visitor Visa (TRV)
Cost CAD $7 CAD $100
Travel Method Air only Air, Land, Sea
U.S. or Past Canada Visa Needed Required Not required
Processing Time Minutes to 72 hours 2 to 8 weeks (varies by country)
Biometrics Required No Yes (in most cases)
Document Submission Online form + passport Full application with proof of funds


4. You Are a U.S. Citizen

You Are a U.S. Citizen

If you are a citizen of the United States, you enjoy visa-free and eTA-free travel to Canada for short stays. Canada and the U.S. share one of the world’s closest bilateral travel relationships, allowing American citizens to visit Canada with minimal paperwork under most circumstances.

Do You Need a Visa or eTA?

No.

As a U.S. citizen, you do not need:

  • A visa to enter Canada for tourism, business, family visits, or transit (for up to 6 months)
  • An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), even when flying

This applies regardless of how you travel:

Mode of Travel Visa or eTA Required?
By Air No
By Land No
By Sea No


Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

To enter Canada, you must carry:

  1. A valid U.S. passport
  2. Any supporting documents if needed (e.g., invitation letter, return ticket, proof of funds — optional but helpful)

Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) and NEXUS cards may also be accepted at land and sea borders, but a passport is mandatory for air travel.

Purpose of Travel Permitted Without a Visa

As a U.S. citizen, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months for the following purposes:

  • Tourism
  • Visiting friends and family
  • Business trips (meetings, conferences, networking)
  • Short-term study (less than 6 months)
  • Transit in Canada to another destination or country

Important: Even though you are visa-exempt, you must satisfy a border officer that:

  • Your visit is temporary
  • You have enough funds to support yourself
  • You will leave Canada before your authorized stay ends

What You Cannot Do Without a Permit

While you don’t need a visa to enter, you cannot:

  • Work in Canada without a valid work permit
  • Enroll in a long-term study program (over 6 months) without a study permit
  • Claim permanent residence unless you apply through a separate immigration program

Attempting to work or study without authorization can result in denied entry or future travel bans.

Quick Summary for U.S. Citizens


Requirement Needed?
Visa for short visits (≤ 6 months) No
eTA for air travel No
U.S. passport Yes
Proof of funds May be requested
Return ticket May be requested
Work permit for employment Required
Study permit for long-term study Required

Travel Tips for U.S. Citizens Visiting Canada

  • Confirm your passport validity throughout your stay
  • Keep a copy of your travel itinerary, accommodation bookings, and return ticket
  • If driving, carry your driver’s license, vehicle documents, and insurance
  • If transiting through Canada to another country, be prepared to show your onward ticket
  • Stay no longer than 6 months unless granted an extension


5. You Are a U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder)

As of April 26, 2022, U.S. lawful permanent residents (LPRs) — commonly referred to as Green Card holders — no longer require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa to travel to Canada by air, land, or sea.

This policy change, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is part of Canada’s effort to streamline travel for certain low-risk groups and aligns with reciprocal travel privileges between the U.S. and Canada.

Entry Requirements for U.S. Green Card Holders

To enter Canada, you must carry the following two documents:

  1. A valid passport from your country of citizenship (this must be the passport you used to obtain your U.S. permanent residency)
  2. A valid Green Card (Form I-551), which serves as official proof of your U.S. permanent resident status

These two documents together are sufficient for entry — you do not need an eTA or a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).


Travel by Air, Land, or Sea

Whether you are:

  • Flying into Canada
  • Driving across the border
  • Arriving on a cruise ship or private boat

You are allowed entry without a visa or eTA as long as you present the required documents.

Key Points to Remember

Category Requirement
Visa or eTA needed? No – exempt
Entry allowed via air/land/sea? Yes – all modes of travel permitted
Documents needed Valid passport + Valid Green Card
Duration of stay Up to 6 months as a visitor (typical visitor stays)
Type of stay allowed Tourism, family visit, business, transit, short-term stay


Additional Notes

  • You are still considered a foreign national, so although no visa/eTA is needed, you must still meet Canada’s entry requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
  • You can be asked questions at the border regarding your:
    • Purpose of visit
    • Duration of stay
    • Proof of funds
    • Intent to return to the U.S.
  • Entry is not guaranteed — border officers have the authority to refuse entry if they suspect you may violate immigration laws (e.g., overstay, unauthorized work).
  • You cannot work or study in Canada without a valid Canadian work or study permit.


Checklist for U.S. Green Card Holders Visiting Canada


Item Required Notes
Passport (non-U.S.) Yes Must be valid; used to get U.S. Green Card
U.S. Green Card (Form I-551) Yes Must be valid (physical or I-551 stamp)
eTA No Not needed after April 26, 2022
Visitor Visa No Exempt regardless of nationality
Return ticket (recommended) Optional Shows intent to return to the U.S.
Proof of funds (recommended) Optional Helps prove temporary visit intentions
COVID-19 documents Based on current health guidelines


Common Questions

Q: I’m a U.S. Green Card holder with an Indian passport. Do I need a Canadian visa?

A: No. You are exempt from both visa and eTA. Just carry your valid Indian passport and Green Card.

Q: What if my Green Card has expired?

A: If your Green Card has expired or is lost, you may face difficulty entering Canada. Carry a temporary I-551 stamp in your passport or proof of renewal. If unsure, consult with IRCC before traveling.

Q: Can I apply for an eTA to be safe?

A: No. Green Card holders are not eligible for an eTA — the system will deny your application.


6. You Are a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident

Canada has clear and specific travel rules for its own citizens and permanent residents. These rules are designed to ensure identity verification, border security, and to maintain compliance with Canadian immigration and citizenship law.

Let’s explore each case in detail:

Key Requirement:

Canadian citizens must enter Canada using a valid Canadian passport.

This applies regardless of:

  • Your place of residence (even if you live abroad)
  • Whether you hold dual or multiple citizenships
  • How you are entering (air, land, sea)

Why This Rule Exists:

Under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and Canadian Passport Regulations, Canadian citizens must identify themselves with official Canadian documents at border crossings. This rule applies even if you also hold another passport (for example, from the U.S., India, or the U.K.).

What If You Try to Enter with a Foreign Passport?

If you try to board a flight to Canada using only a foreign passport (even if it includes your Canadian birthplace), you will likely be denied boarding by the airline. Airlines are legally required to verify that Canadian citizens hold a Canadian passport before boarding, as eTAs do not apply to Canadian citizens.

Exceptions:

There are limited, emergency exceptions where Canadian citizens may re-enter with alternative documents, such as:

  • A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship
  • A NEXUS card (only if entering by land/sea)
  • Special permission in exceptional circumstances (e.g., lost passport with embassy assistance)

However, these are not substitutes for a passport when traveling by air.

What You Should Carry:

  • Valid Canadian passport
  • Optional: proof of status (e.g., citizenship certificate) in case of passport issues
  • Dual nationals: always travel with both passports, but use your Canadian passport to board flights to Canada

Canadian Permanent Residents (PRs)

Entry Rules:

Canadian Permanent Residents (PRs) do not need a visa or an eTA to return to Canada.

However, PRs must prove their status when returning. The required documents include:

  • A valid PR card, or
  • A Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) if your PR card is expired and you are returning from abroad

Important Points:

        1. eTA is NOT applicable to Canadian PRs.

Even if you’re from a visa-exempt country (like Germany or Australia), you must NOT apply for an eTA if you're a PR. If you do, it may be denied or cause confusion at the airport.

        2. PR Card is mandatory for air travel.

If your PR card is expired, and you are outside Canada, you must apply for a PRTD at a Canadian visa office in your current country to re-enter Canada by plane.

        3. By Land/Sea: You can often enter Canada without a PR card if crossing by land or sea (e.g., from the U.S.). However, border officials will ask you to prove your status with other documents, such as:

  • Landing papers
  • Record of PR status
  • Expired PR card and personal ID
  • IMM 1000 or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)

        4. PRs cannot apply for an eTA. Attempting to apply for one may delay your travel or cause denial at boarding.

Summary of Requirements

Status Required to Enter Canada Can Apply for eTA or Visa? Notes
Canadian Citizen Valid Canadian passport No Mandatory even if you have dual nationality
Canadian PR (inside Canada) PR Card for ID purposes No Ensure it remains valid for future travel
Canadian PR (outside Canada) Valid PR Card or PRTD No Apply for PRTD if PR card expired and you’re abroad
Dual National (Canadian + other) Must use Canadian passport to enter No eTA is not issued to Canadian citizens


Tips for Hassle-Free Entry

Always renew your PR card before international travel

Canadian citizens living abroad should ensure their passport is valid at all times

PRs: If your card is expired and you’re already outside Canada, start the PRTD application immediately—it may take several days to process

Dual citizens: Do not rely on your non-Canadian passport or try to apply for an eTA—it won’t work

If you lost your PR card or passport abroad, contact the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate right away

Final Word

Canadian citizens and permanent residents have the right to enter Canada, but they must carry the correct documents to avoid problems at the airport or border. Understanding the specific rules for your status ensures smoother travel and prevents denied boarding, long delays, or legal complications.

If you’re unsure about your documentation or need urgent travel, always consult the official IRCC website.


7. You Have a Valid Canadian Study or Work Permit

If you are a foreign national who has received approval to study or work in Canada, your immigration documentation and mode of travel will determine whether you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visa to enter the country.

Let’s break it down by mode of travel and permit type:

Arriving by Air

Automatic eTA Issuance for Visa-Exempt Countries

If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country (e.g., Australia, Japan, Germany, France, Chile), and your study or work permit is approved, IRCC will automatically issue an eTA at the time of your initial approval. This eTA:

  • Is linked electronically to your passport
  • Is valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
  • Allows you to board your flight to Canada without needing a separate visa

You do NOT need to apply separately for an eTA in this case.

What if you didn't receive an automatic eTA?

In rare cases (e.g., passport changes or system errors), an eTA might not be issued automatically. You should check the status:

  • If you did not get an eTA, you may apply manually via the IRCC website.
  • Manual eTA applications cost CAD $7 and are often approved within minutes.

Arriving by Land or Sea

If you are traveling to Canada from the U.S. by car, or via a cruise ship or boat, you do not need an eTA, even if you’re from a visa-exempt country.

Instead, carry:

  • Your valid passport
  • Your valid study permit or work permit

This combination is sufficient to cross the Canadian border by land or sea.

For Visa-Required Nationals

If you are a citizen of a visa-required country (e.g., India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines), then:

  • You will have received a temporary resident visa (TRV) stamped in your passport when your study or work permit was approved.
  • This TRV acts as your entry document into Canada.
  • You will not need an eTA, even if arriving by air.

The TRV is valid only until its expiry date. If you leave Canada and your visa has expired—even though your study/work permit is still valid—you must apply for a new TRV to return.

What You Should Carry When Traveling


Mode of Travel Visa-Exempt Countries
(e.g. Germany, Japan)		 Visa-Required Countries
(e.g. India, Nigeria)
By Air Passport + eTA (auto or apply manually) + Study/Work Permit Passport with TRV + Study/Work Permit
By Land/Sea Passport + Study/Work Permit (no eTA needed) Passport with TRV + Study/Work Permit


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Do not apply for an eTA if you're from a visa-required country. It will be refused.
  • Do not travel with an expired visa or expired passport. You may be denied boarding.
  • Do not assume that your study/work permit alone allows re-entry—you need a valid entry document (eTA or TRV) depending on your nationality and travel method. 

Summary

If you hold a valid Canadian study or work permit, your required travel document (eTA or TRV) depends on your nationality and mode of travel:

  • Visa-exempt & air travel: You usually get an automatic eTA.
  • Visa-required: You need a TRV, issued when your permit is approved.
  • Land/sea travel: You don’t need an eTA—just your passport and permit.

Being prepared with the correct travel documents will ensure a smooth journey into Canada and prevent delays or denials at the airport or border.


8. You Are Transiting Through Canada (Less than 48 Hours)

What Does Transit Mean?

Transit means you are passing through Canada on your way to another country, and you will be in Canada for less than 48 hours. This may involve:

  • A short stopover at a Canadian airport
  • Switching flights at a Canadian airport (e.g., Toronto, Vancouver)
  • Entering Canada temporarily without leaving the airport

You are not visiting Canada as a destination. Your final destination is another country.

Do You Need a Transit Visa?

That depends on your nationality and where you're coming from and going to. Canada has two types of rules for transit travelers:


1. Transit Visa Requirement (for most travelers)

Most foreign nationals require a Transit Visa unless they are:

  • From a visa-exempt country, or
  • Eligible under a special program like TWOV or CTP

A Transit Visa is free and allows you to:

  • Stay in Canada for up to 48 hours while in transit
  • It is different from a visitor visa
  • You cannot leave the airport unless authorized, especially if you’re not in a TWOV program

2. Transit Without Visa (TWOV) Program

Under the TWOV Program, eligible travelers do not need a Canadian visa even if they are from a visa-required country — but strict conditions apply.

Who is eligible?

As of now, only nationals of Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, and the Philippines may qualify, if they meet ALL of the following:

  1.  You hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa (such as B1/B2)
  2.  You are transiting through certain Canadian airports only, such as:

    1. Toronto Pearson International (Terminal 1 only)
    2. Vancouver International Airport

  1.  You are in transit to or from the U.S.
  2.  You do not leave the airport’s secure transit area
  3.  You fly on a participating airline

Note: You cannot enter Canada under TWOV. It is strictly for staying within the airport during transit.


3. China Transit Program (CTP)

The China Transit Program is a special arrangement for Chinese citizens transiting through Canada on their way to or from the United States.

Who can apply?

To qualify, you must:

  1. Be a citizen of China
  2. Hold a valid U.S. visa (non-immigrant type)
  3. Travel to or from the U.S. with a direct air connection (e.g., Beijing → Toronto → New York)
  4. Travel via approved Canadian airports like Toronto Pearson (Terminal 1), Vancouver International, or Calgary International
  5. Remain within the transit area and not enter Canada

When You Still Need a Transit Visa

You must apply for a Transit Visa if:

  • You are not from a visa-exempt country
  • You are not eligible for TWOV or the China Transit Program
  • You plan to leave the airport even for a short time
  • You have a long layover (over 48 hours)

How to Apply for a Transit Visa

  • It is free (no government fee)
  • Submit an application online or on paper
  • Provide:

    1. Valid passport
    2. Flight itinerary (showing transit in Canada)
    3. Proof of visa to your final destination (if required)
    4. Explanation of travel plan


Summary: What You Need When Transiting Through Canada

Situation Travel Document Required
Citizen of visa-exempt country No eTA/visa needed for transit
Citizen of visa-required country, NOT eligible for TWOV/CTP Transit Visa (Free)
Citizen of China, with valid U.S. visa, transiting to/from U.S. CTP eligible – no visa needed
Citizen of Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, Philippines – flying through select airports to/from U.S. TWOV eligible – no visa needed
Planning to leave airport or stay 48+ hrs Visitor Visa needed


Final Advice

  • Always check the latest rules using the IRCC Transit Visa page
  • If your plans include entering Canada, even briefly, apply for a visitor visa instead
  • Print out your confirmed flight bookings and U.S. visa if using TWOV or CTP
  • Stick to approved airlines and airports if using exemption programs


 eTA vs Visitor Visa: Key Differences

Feature eTA Visitor Visa (TRV)
Cost CAD $7 CAD $100
Application Mode Online only Online or paper
Validity 5 years or passport expiry Up to 10 years
Travel Mode Air only Air, land, sea
Biometric Requirements Not required Often required
Processing Time Minutes to a few days Varies (7–30+ days depending on country)


Final Advice: Avoid Mistakes

  • Always double-check your eligibility with the IRCC tool
  • Apply well in advance of your travel date
  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months
  • Do not travel without proper authorization—boarding may be denied
  • Beware of third-party scammers promising quick visas


Official IRCC Links for Reference

  • IRCC Visa/ETA Tool
  • Apply for an eTA
  • Apply for a Visitor Visa
  • Transit Through Canada
  • Entry for U.S. Green Card Holders


Conclusion

The IRCC’s eTA and visa tool is a simple but powerful tool that removes the guesswork from your travel preparations. Whether you’re a tourist, student, business traveler, or simply passing through, using this tool ensures you know exactly what document you need based on your citizenship, travel route, and immigration status.

Don’t leave it to chance — take a few minutes to fill out the tool and get clear guidance. It could be the difference between a smooth journey and being denied boarding at the airport.


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