Canada has made its rules clear about getting a transit visa. This is important for people traveling who need a special visa just to pass through Canada.
TravelBiz says the new rules explain who can go through Canada if they need a visa. Especially if you’re coming from a country that requires a visa.
If you’re just passing through Canada to somewhere else, it’s important to know the rules, especially if the visa is only for transit.
Things You Should Know
A Canada transit visa lets travelers stop in Canada for a bit on their way to another place. This is necessary for people from some countries who will be in Canada just for a short stop, usually at an airport.
The visa helps make sure travelers can pass through safely without staying in Canada.
If you’re from a country that doesn’t need a visa, you’ll need an eTA when flying through Canada. This is valid for five years or until your passport ends.
About the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is a paper that lets people visit Canada for a short time, like for a vacation, business trip, or to see family. Some people need this before they can come to Canada.
But, with a TRV, you can’t work or study in Canada – it’s just for visiting.
Visa offices in Canada give TRVs if you meet the rules for visiting. But having a TRV doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get into Canada. Border officers decide once you arrive.
Who Can Get a Transit Visa?
To get a transit visa, you need to:
- Show papers that prove you’re just passing through Canada on your way to another international flight within 48 hours.
- Be on an international flight stopping in Canada on the way to another country.
- Have a valid visa for the country you’re finally going to.
When applying, you need to show immigration that you’re just passing through Canada.
Types of Transit Visas
You can get a single-entry or double-entry transit visa for free. You need to give your biometric information (like fingerprints), but you won’t have to pay for that, either.
This makes it easier for travelers to get through the process.
What Transit Visa Holders Need to Know
The main thing is to prove the only reason you’re entering Canada is to pass through. Whether it’s a single or double-entry visa, you need to understand which one you need.
Even without fees, you still have to give your biometric information when you apply.
Transit Exemptions
If you have a valid U.S. visa or Canadian temporary resident visa, you may not need to meet some requirements.
If you are just passing through Canada to or from the U.S. for less than 48 hours, you don’t have to give biometric information.
Extra Programs
Canada also has programs like the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) Program and the China Transit Program.
These programs let certain visitors go through Canada to or from the U.S. without a transit visa if they meet the requirements.
The recent changes help travelers understand what they need to pass through Canada more easily. For more info on applying for a visa and who is eligible, check the official Canadian immigration websites.