If you are heading too a country that requires the flight to stop at a Canadian airport on the way, and wish to sightsee for a while, then you would need the Canada transit visa.
For this, you should be connecting between two international flights at one or more Canada airports. The transit through Canada will last 48 hours or less.
People sometimes apply for this visa for business purposes also. If you have business meetings for one day, then you can travel using the transit visa without having to apply for a business visitor visa in Canada.
Read through the article to know about the Canada transit visa, including the eligibility, application process, required documents and more.
What is a Canada transit visa?
It is an essential permit for travelers passing through Canada. This temporary visa allows travelers from certain countries to transit through a Canadian airport on their way to a third country.
This visa is essential for countries like India, Brazil, and more. The transit visa is valid for 48 hours, after that travelers must leave the country.
When do you need to transit through Canada?
You need a Canada transit visa if:
- If you are going to or from the US by plane
- If your international flight stops at the Canada airport for a stopover
- You need to connect an international flight to reach your destination
- You do not have a visitor visa
- If you are a foreign national who comes from a visa-required country
- You have to stay in Canada airport within 24 or 48 hours at most.
Eligibility criteria for Canada transit visa
It is crucial to confirm your eligibility for the visa before applying. Here are the detailed criteria to qualify for a Canada transit visa:
- Purpose of travel
Your trip to Canada with the transit visa should be for transit purposes. This means that you will not stay in Canada after what is necessary to connect to your next flight.
This visa is intended for people who are not planning to enter Canada for tourism, work, or study.
- Duration of stay
The Canada transit visa allows for a maximum stay of 48 hours. You must plan your connecting flights to depart from Canada within the timeframe.
Any stay beyond this duration will require a different type of visa like a visitor visa.
- Confirmed travel itinerary
You must present this to show your travel plan to a third country within 48 hours. It is crucial to get the Canada transit visa. You must book an onward ticket with a confirmed seat on a flight to a destination outside Canada.
- No immigration violence or criminal record
The transit visa requires applicants to have a clean record with no criminal convictions or previous immigration violation in Canada or other countries.
- Valid passport and biometric requirements
Your passport must be authentic to travel through Canada with at least 6 months of validity left after you leave.
Countries like India require biometric data. Schedule a biometric collection appointment at an authorized location.
You can transit through Canada easily without having a business visitor visa in Canada by maintaining these criteria.
Who is not eligible?
Citizens from visa required nations who visit Canada by car, bus, train, or cruise ship are not eligible for the Canada transit visa. People considered inadmissible under Canada immigration law are also not eligible for the transit visa.
Some people can fly to Canada with an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a valid passport. Check the people who can get the ETA here.
Criteria to get the visa are:
- Proof of personal money that can fund your stay in Canada
- A valid passport
- Good health
- No criminal conviction records
- No intention to study or work.
Required documents for Canada transit visa
It requires specific documentation to set up your eligibility, confirm travel plans, and verify personal details. Collect these documents and ensure a smoother application process.
Here are the documents that are required for a Canada transit visa:
- Valid passport – must be valod for at least 6 months from your travel date with minimum one blank page.
- Visa application form – a complete transit visa application form as per the Canadian authorities requirements.
- Passport size photos – recent photographs meeting the visa photo requirements of Canada.
- Travel itinerary – detailed flight plan showing arrival and departure times in Canada.
- Proof of onward travel – evidence of a confirmed ticket to the next destination.
- Address proof – a copy of service bill or bank statement showing your address
- Financial proof – documents displaying adequate amounts of funds to cover your stay in Canada.
Application process of Canada transit visa
It involves several steps that ensure travelers have the required documentation and meet all eligibility criteria.
Here is a guideline on how to apply for a Canada transit visa:
- Check the visa requirements
Visit the official IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website to make sure if your nationality needs a transit visa or not. Create an account on the website and apply for the visa after finding out that you are eligible.
- Complete the application
After you sign in to the site, log in again with the credentials. You have to answer certain questions then. Upload a list of documents after completing the answers.
Submit the application after that.
If you are applying offline, then download the required form and fill it out. Collect the essential documents and send the application form to a visa application center.
- Book biometric appointment
You have to provide your fingerprints and photographs in this step. Complete this process fast or the delay will affect your visa processing time.
- Wait for the processing
The average time is a few weeks or less. Track the status of your application online and wait with patience.
- Prepare for travel
Carry a printed copy of your visa and other required documents while traveling after it gets approved. Make sure that your layover in Canada does not exceed 48 hours.
Processing time
This takes 2 to 3 weeks for a Canada transit visa. It just depends on factors like the biometric requirements and application volume.
Make sure that all documents are accurate and submitted promptly. Processing times vary during peak travel seasons, so it is recommended to apply in advance.
Tips for traveling with a Canada transit visa
Prepare for your trip to ensure a smooth travel experience through Canadian airports after your visa is approved.
Here are some points to remember when travelling with a Canada transit visa:
- Check flight connections
Make sure that your layover time is under 48 hours. Or else, additional documentation may be required.
- Stay informed about airport policies
Canada airports may have specific transit requirements, especially for travelers carrying specific types of goods. Make sure you adhere to the policies.
- Carry printed documents
Always carry printed copies of your visa approval and other essential travel documents.
- Prepare for possible delays
Be prepared for minor delays due to weather, especially during the winter times.
Let’s go!
Securing a Canada transit visa is a crucial step for travelers passing through Canada en route to other countries. You will be able to secure your transit visa smoothly by following the proper application process and collecting the required documents.
Get a transit visa today and ensure a smooth journey!
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