When visiting Canada, you will either need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), you do not need both.
If you are from a visa-exempt country, you will need to fill out the eTA form. To fill out the form you will need a valid passport, a valid email address and to pay the $7.00 fee. Find out if you are eligible for an eTA by visiting the Government of Canada website.
If you are not from a visa-exempt country, you will need to apply for a visitor visa. In order to be eligible for a visitor visa you must:
- have a valid travel document, like a passport
- be in good health
- have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
- convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets, or family—that will take you back to your home country
- convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
- have enough money for your stay
- The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.
The information above was taken directly from the Government of Canada website, if you are still unsure if you are eligible, you can find more information here.
How to Apply
You can apply for a visitor visa online. If you meet the eligibility requirements above and have all the necessary documents, you can visit the portal to apply. Find the list of supporting documents you need to apply here. The types of documents needed will vary depending on the purpose of your visit, such as family visit, tourism, business, or compassionate reasons. You can choose your reason from the drop-down menu and answer each question to get the full list of documents.
Once you created your account, you can upload your documents and pay your fees. You will also need to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photos) when applying for the first time.
If your application is approved, you will be asked to send in your passport to get your visa. After that, you just have to prepare for your arrival and arrive in Canada. You will be given instructions if you need to bring any documentation for the border services officer when you arrive in Canada. Questions or need help getting started? Contact one of our trusted Immigration Consultant’s today!
Source
Government of Canada. (n.d.). Visitor Visa. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/about-visitor-visa.html