Which Type of Canada Visa Is Easy to Get? If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting or moving to Canada, you’re not alone. Canada is a popular destination for people all over the world, thanks to its welcoming culture, high quality of life, and countless opportunities.
But when it comes to applying for a Canadian visa, one common question comes up: which type of visa is the easiest to get?
The truth is, it depends on your situation. Are you looking for a quick visit, or are you planning to study, work, or settle there permanently? In this post, I’ll break down the different types of Canadian visas and share some tips to help you figure out which one might be the easiest for you to get.
Temporary vs. Permanent Visas — What’s the Difference?
Let’s start with the basics. Canadian visas fall into two main categories:
- Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs): These are for short-term stays, like visiting, studying, or working temporarily in Canada.
- Permanent Resident Visas (PRVs): These are for people who want to live in Canada permanently, whether through work, family sponsorship, or special programs.
Each visa type has its own requirements and application process, so let’s dive deeper into the most common options.
Temporary Resident Visas: Perfect for Short-Term Visits
1. Visitor Visa (a.k.a. Tourist Visa)
If you’re just planning a quick trip to Canada, the visitor visa is probably your best bet. It’s designed for people who want to visit for tourism, see family, or attend a short business event.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A valid passport.
- Proof that you can afford your stay (bank statements work great here).
- Evidence that you’ll return to your home country (like a job or family ties).
- Sometimes, an invitation letter from someone in Canada.
Why it’s easy: The visitor visa has relatively straightforward requirements compared to other visa types. You don’t need to take a language test or prove your education. Just show that you’re visiting for a short period and that you have strong reasons to go back home after your trip.
Pro tip: Double-check the processing times for your country. In some cases, it can take a few weeks, while others may take months.
2. Study Permit
Thinking about studying in Canada? This might be the visa for you! Canada has some of the best universities in the world, and they actively welcome international students.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- An acceptance letter from a Canadian school (known as a Designated Learning Institution, or DLI).
- Proof that you can pay your tuition and living expenses.
- A clean criminal record (you might need a police clearance certificate).
- Proof of English or French proficiency.
Why it’s easy: Once you have an acceptance letter from a Canadian school, you’re halfway there. Many provinces also have pathways that let you transition from a study permit to permanent residency after you graduate. It’s a win-win if you’re hoping to stay in Canada long-term.
Pro tip: If you’re applying from a country with strong ties to Canada, your application might get processed faster.
3. Work Permit
If studying isn’t your thing, working in Canada is another great option. Work permits come in two types:
- Employer-Specific Work Permit: Tied to a specific job and employer in Canada.
- Open Work Permit: Flexible and not tied to any specific job or employer (e.g., for spouses of international students).
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Approval from Canada’s Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in most cases.
- Proof that you have the skills for the job.
Why it’s easy: Certain programs, like the Global Talent Stream, make it easier to get a work permit quickly, especially if you’re in a high-demand field. Open work permits are also great because you don’t need a job offer upfront.
Permanent Resident Visas — Long-Term Opportunities
1. Express Entry
Express Entry is a popular option for skilled workers who want to live and work in Canada permanently. It’s a points-based system designed to fast-track qualified applicants.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Language proficiency in English or French.
- Educational credentials assessed by a designated body.
- Work experience in a skilled job.
- Proof of funds (unless you already work in Canada or have a valid job offer).
Why it’s easy: If you’re a skilled worker, you don’t necessarily need a job offer to apply. Plus, there are clear ways to boost your score, like improving your language test results.
And that’s just the start! Each visa type comes with its own unique requirements and benefits, so make sure you pick the one that suits your goals.