Visitor Visa, eTA, or Working Holiday: Which Do You Need for Canada?
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To enter Canada for tourism or short business trips you need one of two documents, depending on your nationality: a traditional Visitor Visa (TRV), or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), much simpler, available only to citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling by air.
If your plan is to combine tourism with temporary work during a long stay, the program to look into is International Experience Canada (IEC), which includes the Working Holiday category. This program depends on bilateral agreements between Canada and certain countries, with limited annual quotas and a defined age range (normally between 18 and 30 or 35 years depending on the agreement).
The correct category depends entirely on your nationality and the purpose of the trip, so always check on the official website of Canadian immigration (IRCC) which one applies to your case before planning the trip.
Visitor Visa (TRV) vs. eTA
The visitor visa is a document processed in advance that is affixed to or linked to the passport, required for citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list. The eTA is a much simpler and faster electronic permit, intended only for citizens of visa-exempt countries arriving by air.
Working Holiday Program (International Experience Canada)
Allows young people from countries with a valid bilateral agreement to live and work in Canada for a set period (often up to 12 months), with enrollment by lottery or first-come, first-served depending on the country, and limited annual quotas that fill up quickly.
Documents Usually Requested
- Passport valid for the entire planned stay.
- Proof of financial means.
- Travel itinerary and, in some cases, accommodation reservation.
- For Working Holiday: proof of minimum funds and, frequently, health insurance valid for the entire stay.
Travel Medical Insurance for Canada
Many visa procedures require presenting travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage amount. The exact amounts vary by country and visa type, so always confirm them at the relevant embassy or official consulate. In the Travel Insurance section of this site you can get a quote for an Assist-365 plan that usually meets this type of requirement, using the discount code MEDALLOADV2023 when you purchase.
Verified Visa Advice
If you'd rather have a specialist review your case before applying, VisaGov is a verified visa advisory partner you can consult about your specific case.
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Comparison of Options for Traveling to Canada
| Option | Who It Applies To | Main Use |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (TRV) | Nationalities not exempt from a visa | Tourism or short business trips |
| eTA | Visa-exempt nationalities, arriving by air | Tourism or short business trips |
| Working Holiday (IEC) | Countries with a bilateral agreement, defined age range | Living and working temporarily |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the eTA Replace the Visitor Visa for Everyone?
No, it only applies to citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling by air; everyone else still needs the traditional visitor visa.
How Long Does the Working Holiday Program in Canada Last?
Generally up to 12 months, although the exact duration depends on the bilateral agreement between Canada and your country.
Is There an Age Limit for the Working Holiday?
Yes, normally between 18 and 30 or 35 years depending on the country of origin, since it depends on the specific bilateral agreement.
Does the Working Holiday in Canada Require Health Insurance?
In most cases, yes, valid health insurance is required for the entire stay; confirm the exact minimum amount on the official Canadian immigration website.
