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:

Key facts at a glance
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

Lucas Tyler Mitchell Fraser

About the author

Lucas Tyler Mitchell Fraser

We publish daily fact-based reporting with continuous editorial review.