Canadian visa resources
What you can do on your Canadian visa or permit
What you are allowed to do on a Canadian visitor visa, eTA, study permit or work permit — and why a permit is not the same as an entry visa.
Important
What you are allowed to do in Canada depends on the document you hold. This page explains the difference in plain language; always follow the conditions attached to your own visa or permit.
A permit is not an entry visa
A study permit or work permit lets you study or work in Canada, but it is not an entry visa. Depending on your nationality you may also need a visitor visa or an eTA to travel to Canada.
Visitor visa and eTA
A visitor visa or eTA is for temporary visits — for example tourism or seeing family. It does not by itself authorise you to work or study.
Study and work permits
A study permit authorises study at a designated learning institution; a work permit authorises work under the conditions stated on it. Read the conditions printed on your own document.
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-09. Information only — not legal advice.