
Canadian Visitor Visa: Requirements, Fees, and Steps
Planning a trip to Canada? First, determine whether you need a visitor visa or an eTA. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), most applications process in about 30 days.
Visitor visa application fee: CAD $100 per person ·
eTA fee: CAD $7 ·
Standard processing time: 30 days (average) ·
Multiple-entry visa validity: Up to 10 years ·
eTA validity: 5 years or until passport expiry
Quick snapshot
1Confirmed facts
- Visa fee is CAD $100 per person, non-refundable (IRCC)
- Biometrics required for most applicants aged 14–79 (IRCC biometrics policy)
- eTA valid for 5 years or until passport expiry (IRCC eTA page) (IRCC)
2What’s unclear
- Exact processing time varies by country and application volume
- Bank balance requirement is not specified; case-by-case assessment
- New rule details (2024) may be updated without notice
3Timeline signal
- Standard processing time is 30 days, but some countries see longer waits (IRCC processing times page)
- Biometrics appointment typically adds 1–2 weeks
4What’s next
- Submit your application online or on paper
- Receive a visa counterfoil or eTA confirmation
- Prepare for arrival: carry all documents and proof of funds
The upshot
The Canadian visitor visa is a straightforward application for most travelers, but the lack of a fixed financial threshold means you need to show credible, liquid funds. IRCC (Canada’s immigration authority) expects you to cover your stay and return travel — anything less can lead to refusal.
Here are the key facts summarized:
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | CAD $100 per person (non-refundable) |
| Processing time | 30 days average (varies by country) |
| Validity of multiple-entry visa | Up to 10 years or until passport expiry |
| Biometrics required | Yes, for most applicants aged 14–79 |
| Proof of funds required | No fixed amount; must cover stay and |