A visitor visa (also called a temporary resident visa) is an official document that we stick in your passport. It shows that you meet the requirements needed to enter Canada.

Most travelers need a visitor visa to travel to Canada. You may also need one if you’re transiting through a Canadian airport on your way to your final destination.

You must meet some basic requirements to get 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.

You may also need a medical exam and a letter of invitation from someone who lives in Canada.

Check the list of documents you need based on your situation.

Some people are not allowed to enter Canada

Some people are not admissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. You can be inadmissible for several reasons, including being involved in:

criminal activity

human rights violations

organized crime

You can also be inadmissible for security, health, or financial reasons. Find out more about inadmissibility.

Minor children traveling to Canada

Make sure you know what to do if your minor children (children under the age of 18) will be traveling with you, with someone else, or alone.