Canada has just updated its visitor visa policy on May 7, 2025, and international travelers are urged to check whether they now need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before making any travel plans. This update affects tourists, short-term students, business visitors, and even those simply transiting through Canadian airports. If you’re planning to visit Canada in 2025—read this first.
Canada Will Issue Visitor Visa/TRV to 3 Traveler Types
The Canadian government confirms that most international travelers still need a Visitor Visa (also known as a Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) to enter Canada. This includes many passport holders who plan to:
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- Travel for tourism or family visits
- Attend short-term courses or conferences
- Transit through Canada to another destination
What Is a Visitor Visa?
A Visitor Visa is a document placed in your passport to show you meet Canada’s entry requirements. Visa officers may issue either a single-entry or a multiple-entry visa, usually valid up to 10 years, or until your passport or biometric data expires—whichever comes first.
How Long Can You Stay in Canada on TRV after May 2025?
- Default Stay: Most visitors can remain in Canada for up to 6 months per entry.
- Custom Duration: A border services officer may allow a longer or shorter stay, noted in your passport or in a Visitor Record.
- No Stamp? If there’s no stamp in your passport, you’re authorized to stay for 6 months from your arrival date or until the earliest expiry date of either your passport or biometrics.
- Super Visa Exception: Super visa holders entering after June 22, 2023, are permitted a 5-year stay per entry.
Check Before You Apply – eTA or Visitor Visa?
Don’t rush into applying for a visitor visa! Canada reminds travelers to confirm which entry document is needed. Your requirement depends on:
- Your nationality
- The type of travel document (e.g., regular or diplomatic passport)
- The issuing country
- Mode of travel (air, land, or sea)
Some travelers only need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) when arriving by air. Others must apply for a full visitor visa—even just to transit through a Canadian airport.