Canada has clarified and updated its visitor visa rules, making travel simpler for some nationalities while reminding others to double-check their entry requirements before booking flights. Whether you’re planning a short holiday, visiting family, or transiting through a Canadian airport, understanding who needs a visitor visa—and who doesn’t—is now more important than ever.
Most Travelers Still Need a Canada Visitor Visa
For the majority of international travelers, a Canada visitor visa, officially known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is required to enter Canada. This applies not only to visitors entering Canada but also to travelers transiting through a Canadian airport on the way to another destination.
A visitor visa is a physical document placed in your passport, confirming that you meet Canada’s entry requirements. Visa officers have the discretion to issue either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa and determine its validity period.
In most cases, a visitor visa can be issued for up to 10 years, or until the expiry of your passport or biometrics—whichever comes first.
Major Update: Qatar Citizens Now Eligible for eTA
In a significant policy update, citizens of Qatar no longer need a Canada visitor visa for air travel.
As of November 25, 2025, Qatari passport holders can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of a visitor visa when travelling to Canada by air. This move places Qatar among countries with simplified entry access to Canada.
Travelers from Qatar who already hold a valid visitor visa can continue using it until it expires, without needing to switch to an eTA immediately.
How Long Can Visitors Stay in Canada?
Most visitors to Canada are allowed to stay up to 6 months per entry.
At the port of entry, a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer may approve a stay that is shorter or longer than six months, depending on your travel purpose and documents. If a different duration is granted, the officer will note the exit date in your passport or issue a visitor record showing when you must leave Canada.
If you do not receive a passport stamp, you are generally allowed to stay for six months from your date of entry, or until your passport or biometrics expire—whichever comes first.
A special rule applies to Super Visa holders: those entering Canada after June 22, 2023, may stay for up to five years per visit.
Do You Need a Visitor Visa or an eTA? Check Before You Apply?
Before submitting an application, travelers are strongly advised to confirm whether they need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). The required entry document depends on several factors, including:
- Your nationality
- The country that issued your travel document
- The type of passport or travel document you hold
- Whether you are travelling by air, land, or sea
Applying for the wrong document can lead to delays or refusal at boarding or entry, so checking eligibility in advance is essential.
Final Takeaway
Canada continues to balance border security with travel facilitation, as seen in the latest eTA expansion for Qatari citizens. However, since most travellers still require a visitor visa, confirming your entry requirements before applying remains a crucial step.
If you’re planning a trip to Canada in 2025 or beyond, make sure your visa or eTA aligns with your nationality, travel method, and passport validity to avoid last-minute surprises at the airport.