›Entry types for visiting Canada
Access to Canada is not a single policy — it varies by nationality and entry type. Visa-free, visa on arrival, and eVisa all allow entry without a traditional embassy appointment, but they work differently and carry different risks.
Visa-free entry (40 nationalities)
Visa-free means no advance application, no fee, and no form to fill out before you travel. You present your passport at the Canada border and receive your entry stamp on arrival. Stay limits apply — typically 30 to 90 days — and you should still carry proof of onward travel and sufficient funds even when entry is visa-free.
eVisa / eTA (15 nationalities)
eVisa and eTA holders must apply online before traveling to Canada — usually 3 to 14 business days in advance. No embassy visit is required, but you must apply before departure. Always check whether Canada accepts a digital approval or requires a printed copy at the specific border crossing you plan to use.
›Compound access to Canada
Some nationalities that would normally require a full visa can access Canadaby holding a valid Schengen visa, US visa, UK visa, or other foreign permit. This is called compound access — your passport alone doesn't qualify, but the combination of your passport and a visa you already hold does.
How compound access works
The qualifying visa must be valid (not expired) at the time of travel to Canada. Typically a multiple-entry visa is required — a single-entry Schengen visa, for example, may not qualify once it has been used. Check the exact conditions for each permit type in the "Entry via Foreign Visa" section above.
Why compound access matters
For travelers who hold a qualifying visa, compound access removes the need to apply for a separate Canada visa. This can save weeks of processing time and embassy appointment wait times. Always verify compound access conditions with the Canada immigration authority before travel, as policies can change without notice.