CHOOSE CANADA AS YOUR NEXT DESTINATION
STAYING IN CANADA AS A VISITOR
A visitor's visa (also called a temporary resident visa) is an official document that is affixed to your passport. It indicates that you meet the requirements to enter Canada.
Most visitors need a visitor's visa to come to Canada. You may also need one if you are transiting through a Canadian airport on your way to your final destination.
You can apply for a visitor's visa online or on paper.
Call us to learn more about the application process
Extend your stay in Canada
How to extend your stay in Canada
Visitor visas for workers and students
How to obtain a new visa from Canada
Inviting business visitors to Canada
Find out what a sales visitor is and how to get one to your meeting or event
Invite your parents or grandparents
Check if your parents or grandparents can visit Canada for up to 2 years
Being reunited with family members
Apply for a visa for a family member
Length of stay allowed
Most people can stay for up to six months in Canada. However, at the port of entry, the border services officer may allow you to stay for less or more than six months. If so, he or she will indicate in your passport the date on which you must leave the country. The officer may also give you a document called a "visitor's record" which will indicate this date.