Canada immigration agency answers visa questions travellers often get wrong

Canada’s immigration authority has stepped in to clear up some of the most common confusion facing travellers. IRCC shared a post of social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) publishing a set of answers to the questions it says that visitors ask most often and the responses are worth a read before you book that trip.

With millions of people visiting Canada every year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) says a handful of questions come up again and again. Here's what the agency wants every prospective visitor to know.

Canada’s immigration agency answered some common questions

How long will a visitor visa actually take?

This is where many travellers get caught out. If you do need a visitor visa, you'll have to submit an application along with supporting documents proving your identity, travel plans, and eligibility to enter Canada — and processing times can vary significantly depending on demand and your location.

IRCC is urging applicants to check current estimated processing times before applying, rather than assuming last year's timeline still holds.

What documents do you need?

At a minimum, your application needs a digital copy of your passport or travel document, and it must remain valid for at least six months beyond your planned travel date — a detail that trips up more travellers than you'd expect. The good news: applying online generates a personalised document checklist inside the portal, so you know exactly what's required for your specific case rather than guessing.

Can you work or study while visiting?

Here's the one that catches people out the most. Visitors are not permitted to work or study in Canada unless they're specifically authorized to do so. If your trip involves any work or study plans, a standard visitor visa or eTA won't cut it — you'll likely need a separate work permit or study permit, and IRCC recommends checking eligibility for either well before you travel.

Read IRCC complete post here

Millions of people visit Canada every year. Here are some of the top questions about visiting Canada, answered! 1. Do I need a visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada? To visit Canada, most people need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA), depending on their citizenship, their travel document and the way they plan to travel to Canada. Check if you need a visa or an eTA.2. How long does it take to get a visitor visa? If you need a visitor visa, you must complete an application and provide the required documents, which may include documents proving your identity, travel plans and eligibility to enter Canada. Processing times vary, so check the latest estimated processing time before you apply.3. What documents do I need to apply for a visitor visa? Your application needs to include a digital copy of your passport or travel document, which should be valid (not expired) for at least 6 months from the date you plan to travel. When you apply online, you’ll get a personalized document checklist in the portal. Make sure you provide all the required documents. 4. Can I work or study while visiting Canada? Visitors cannot work or study in Canada unless they’re authorized to do so. If you want to work or study here, you may also need a work permit or study permit.