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Visitor visas & eTA

Canadian Canada Transit Visa

For travellers passing through a Canadian airport on the way to another country. Whether you need a transit visa or an eTA depends on your nationality.

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Canada government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Transit Visa
Route type
Transit
Cost
Free — there is no fee for a transit visa
Purpose
Transit through a Canadian airport for up to 48 hours on the way to another country
Who needs it
Visa-required nationals transiting Canada by air
Visa-exempt travellers normally need an eTA for air transit instead; no eTA is needed to transit by train, bus, boat or cruise ship.
Where to apply
Online, before you travel

Who can apply

  • Travellers connecting through a Canadian airport to an onward destination

What you can do

  • Transit through Canada to reach another country

Requirements

  • You are a citizen of a visa-required country and are only passing through Canada to reach another country
  • Your time in Canada will be 48 hours or less
  • You are travelling through a Canadian airport (air transit)
  • You are admissible to Canada

How to apply

  • Use the official IRCC tool to confirm whether you need a transit visa, an eTA, or nothing for your route
  • Complete the transit visa application online through your IRCC secure account
  • There is no fee — because the transit visa is free you can proceed past the payment step by selecting 'Save and Continue'
  • Give biometrics if instructed, submit the application, and send your passport as directed if approved

Documents you may need

  • A valid passport
  • Your confirmed onward travel details / flight itinerary out of Canada
  • Any documents required for your final destination country
  • Photographs meeting IRCC specifications, if requested

Frequently asked questions

  • No. The transit visa is free of charge. It is for visa-required travellers passing through a Canadian airport for 48 hours or less on the way to another country.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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