Canada Visa FAQs

When is the best time to apply for my Canada visa?
The best time to apply for your Canada Visa Online is 1-2 months before your travel date. However, if you are running short on time, we may be able to process your visa on a faster service at the Embassy’s discretion.

Do I have to send you my passport to get a Canada visa? Is it safe to send a passport?
Yes. You will need to send your actual passport, not a copy of it. The Canada visa is stamped on your passport and will become one of your passport pages. Visa request cannot be processed without your original passport. Because of the importance of your passport, we strongly suggest that you send your application by a secure method, such as a guaranteed postal service or courier.

Sample of the Business Travel Requirements for an Canada Visa for UK Citizens

1. Canada ETA ExemptionsThe following categories of travellers are not required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) when travelling to Canada:
   • US Green Card holders
   • Travellers entering Canada by land or sea
   • Flight crew members, civil aviation inspectors or accident investigators who are or will be working while in Canada
   • Diplomats accredited by the Government of Canada
   • French citizens who live in Saint Pierre and Miquelon and are flying directly to Canada from St. Pierre and Miquelon
2. Eligibility and DocumentationThe Government of Canada utilises an electronic travel authorization (ETA) issuance system. The ETA is an electronic authorization from the government to enter Canada. It is the equivalent to a visa, but no stamp or label is placed in the passport. To be eligible the traveller must:
   • Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page
   • Hold proof of sufficient funds
   • Hold proof of onward/return flights
   • Hold all documents required for the next destination
     To complete the order form the traveller must provide:
   • A copy of the passport information page
   • A copy of the flight confirmation
     Apply now and complete our order form providing basic travel and personal details. We’ll take care of the rest keeping you apprised of your order’s progress over email.
3. Visa ValidityThis visa is valid for up to five years and is usually issued for multiple entries.  
4. Visa ConditionsApplicants who have visited Canada for purposes other than tourism must check with Canada Visa Online Application that they are not registered as a “previous resident” as this will need to be revoked prior to application.  Applicants who have a criminal record or have been deported or removed from any country may not be eligible for a visa or visa exemption and must contact the Embassy directly for confirmation.