Canada has two entry systems for visitors: the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for nationals from visa-required countries, and the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for visa-exempt nationals travelling by air. Both allow you to visit Canada for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family, or business purposes.
Your nationality determines which system applies to you. IAUK Manchester provides expert guidance for both visa types, helping you compile the right documents, demonstrate ties to your home country, and present a strong application that avoids common refusal reasons.
| Feature | Visitor Visa (TRV) | eTA |
|---|---|---|
| For whom | Visa-required nationals | Visa-exempt nationals (flying) |
| Cost | CAD $100 | CAD $7 |
| Processing | Several weeks | Minutes to 72 hours |
| Validity | Up to 10 years | 5 years or passport expiry |
| Biometrics | Required | Not required |
Must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada
Bank statements showing sufficient savings to support your visit
Invitation letter, hotel bookings, or detailed travel itinerary
Employment letter, property documents, family obligations
Previous visa stamps and travel records demonstrating compliance
Fingerprints and photo at a VFS Global centre (for TRV applicants)
UK citizens do not need a traditional visitor visa. Instead, you must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. The eTA costs CAD $7 and is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires.
A visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) is a physical stamp or sticker in your passport required for nationals from visa-required countries. An eTA is an electronic travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals flying to Canada. Both allow stays of up to 6 months.
There is no fixed minimum, but you should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your stay. This typically means showing 3-6 months of bank statements with regular income and enough savings for accommodation, food, travel, and return transport.
Yes. Most applicants aged 14-79 must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a designated Visa Application Centre (VAC). In the UK, you can provide biometrics at VFS Global centres in London, Edinburgh, or Belfast.
Yes. You can apply to extend your visitor status before it expires. Apply at least 30 days before your current status expires. If your application is submitted on time, you can remain in Canada on ‘implied status’ while it’s being processed.
Common refusal reasons include: insufficient ties to your home country, inadequate financial proof, unclear purpose of visit, poor travel history, and the officer not being satisfied you will leave Canada at the end of your stay.
Get expert guidance on your Canadian visitor visa or eTA application.
