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Visas - FAQ

1. What is a visa?
   
   
2. How can I find out if I need a visa to travel to my destination?
   
   
3. Where can I obtain a visa?
   
   
4. What is the charge for a visa?
   
   
5. Should I send my passport to the office of the foreign government issuing the visa?
   
   
6. Can I obtain a visa at the point of entry to a country?
   
   
7. How do I renew or change the status of a visa?

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1.   What is a visa?

A visa is an official document, usually stamped or glued inside a passport, giving permission from foreign authorities to enter a country.Not all countries require Canadians to have a visa, but many do, even for short-term visits. Permission to enter another country is the sole prerogative of that country. You will almost certainly need a visa if you plan to remain in a foreign country for a longer period (usually more than 90 days). The most common categories are business, work, student, and tourist visas. Requirements and processing times will vary, depending on the type of visa you need.

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2.   How can I find out if I need a visa to travel to my destination?

For definitive information on visa requirements, you should contact the nearest foreign government office of the country you plan to visit. Country-specific information is also included in our Travel Reports. See our Tourist Visa Requirements page for a list of countries that oblige Canadians to obtain entry visas.

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3.   Where can I obtain a visa?

Visas are issued by foreign government offices in Canada. For more information, you should contact the embassy or consulate in Canada of any country you plan to visit.

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4.   What is the charge for a visa?

Visa fees will depend on the country and the purpose of entry. Visas for tourism are generally the least expensive, while those for work or permanent residence are more expensive.

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5.   Should I send my passport to the office of the foreign government issuing the visa?

Yes, all countries need to see your passport before issuing a visa. To ensure safe handling, mail your passport using secure mail services and enclose a stamped, self-addressed return envelope.

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6.   Can I obtain a visa at the point of entry to a country?

Some countries will issue a visa upon your arrival, but it is not a common procedure. In almost all cases, visas must be obtained before leaving Canada. Permission to enter another country is the sole prerogative of that country, and you may be denied entry if you do not have a visa upon arrival.

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7.   How do I renew or change the status of a visa?

To extend your stay in a country beyond the period permitted by the visa you currently hold, or to change the status of your visa (for example, from a visitor to a work visa), contact the nearest Canadian government office abroad, and consular officials will refer you to the proper authorities in that country.