Here Are Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions by tourists in Canada

Recent modifications to visitor visa rules for certain Mexican citizens have raised questions among foreign nationals considering a trip to Canada. To provide clarity, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that addresses some of the most common queries regarding visiting Canada.

1. How Long Can Visitors Stay in Canada?

Generally, visitors can stay in Canada for up to six months from their entry date, or until their passport expires—whichever occurs first. Upon arrival, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will stamp your passport or provide a document specifying your departure date. If you wish to stay longer than the allotted time, you can apply for an extension.

2. Single Entry vs. Multiple Entry Visa: What’s the Difference?

The distinction between single and multiple-entry visas is straightforward. A single-entry visa allows the holder to enter Canada only once, while a multiple-entry visa permits multiple entries as long as it remains valid.

All applicants are automatically considered for a multiple-entry visa; however, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) evaluates each application individually and issues a visa based on specific criteria. It's important to note that holders of a single-entry visa will need to apply for a new visa if they leave Canada, except when travelling directly to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon.

Multiple-entry visas are valid for either ten years or until one month before the visa holder’s passport expires, whichever comes first. Each entry allows a stay of up to six months.

3. Applying for a Family Group?

Unfortunately, you cannot submit a single visa application for your entire family, even if you are travelling together. Each family member must complete and sign their own application. However, you can submit all applications in one envelope along with a single payment receipt that covers all fees.

Keep in mind that parents or guardians can assist children in completing their forms. Additionally, all visa applications for individuals under 18 must be signed by a parent or guardian.

4. How Can I Support a Friend or Family Member Visiting Canada?

While your friends and family must complete their own visa applications, a letter of invitation can be a helpful supporting document. This letter should outline how you can assist the visa applicant, such as offering accommodation. However, it’s important to understand that providing a letter does not guarantee that their visa will be approved.

5. Is a Medical Exam Necessary for a Visitor Visa?

Whether you need a medical exam before obtaining a visitor visa depends on the duration of your stay in Canada. Typically, visitors staying for six months or less do not require an exam unless they will be working in a role critical to public health.

If you plan to stay for longer than six months, a medical examination may be required if you meet either of these criteria:

• You have lived in a designated country for six months or more prior to your visit.
• You are applying for a Parent and Grandparent Super Visa.

This requirement also applies to visitors from visa-exempt countries.

6. Visitor Visa vs. Visitor Record: What's the Difference?

A visitor visa is necessary for most foreign nationals wishing to enter Canada as visitors, typically for a period of up to six months. In contrast, a visitor record is issued by CBSA officials to either extend or limit a visitor's stay in Canada.

A visitor record can also be issued by IRCC or CBSA after a successful application to extend your stay or restore your status in Canada.

7. What If I Have a New Passport but a Valid Visa in the Old One?

You can still travel to Canada with a valid visitor visa in an expired passport. However, you must present both your old passport containing the valid visa and your new passport when entering Canada. Be prepared to explain to CBSA officials why your old passport is no longer valid.

To avoid any processing delays, IRCC recommends that visitors obtain a new visitor visa in their new valid passport.

8. How Can I Extend My Stay in Canada?

If you wish to extend your stay as a visitor, you will need to submit biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) along with your application for a visitor record. This document provides you with three options for extending your stay:

1. Staying as a visitor
2. Working in Canada without a work permit
3. Studying in Canada without a study permit

You can find detailed steps for applying for a visitor record on the IRCC website.

9. Can I Appeal If My Visitor Visa Is Denied?

Unfortunately, there is no appeal process for a denied visitor visa application. If your application is turned down, you may reapply, but IRCC advises doing so only if your circumstances have changed or if you have new information that may positively influence your application’s outcome.

10. Do I Need a Visa if I’m Just Passing Through Canada?

Whether you need documentation when transiting through Canada depends on your specific situation. Generally, travellers fall into two categories: those who require a visa and those who are visa-exempt.

For visa-required travellers, a visitor visa is needed if:

• You are visiting Canada (even if you are in the country for less than 48 hours).
• You are staying in Canada for more than 48 hours while in transit to another country.
• You are crossing the border by bus, car, train, boat, or cruise ship.

Some visa-required travellers may only need a transit visa, especially if they have an international flight that stops in Canada but does not require a visitor visa.

Visa-exempt travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to transit through Canada by air. Those travelling by train, bus, or boat are not required to have an eTA but must carry the necessary travel documents.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the requirements and processes involved in obtaining a visitor visa to Canada is essential for a smooth travel experience. Whether you're applying for yourself or assisting friends and family, it's crucial to be aware of the rules and necessary documentation. With the right preparation, your visit to Canada can be both enjoyable and fulfilling.