If you are thinking of going to Canada, you need to be aware of the visa laws. Not all travelers will need to get a Canada visa as they are members of the visa-waiver program which allows temporary entry to citizens of certain countries. These citizens will need to get an ETA, but citizens of other countries will need to get a visa.
The Canada Visa Categories
There are 2 general categories when it comes to a Canada visa. The first is the temporary visa and the second is the permanent one. There are different visa types within these categories, but you will first need to determine which category you are looking at.
The temporary visa category will be for people who are visiting Canada for a short period of time. The purpose of the visit will also need to be limited such as visiting family, tourism, working or studying. There are different visas for the different activities you are going to be doing in the country.
The permanent visa is for people who are looking to move to Canada indefinitely or for a prolonged period of time. This could be if you are going to be working in the country or if you are going to eventually become a Canadian citizen. There are a number of different visas which you can get in this category based on your skills and the province you are moving to.
The Temporary Visas
The temporary visa allows for a stay in Canada of up to 6 months before you have to return to your home country or leave for another country. This set amount of time will be part of the single-entry visa as the multiple entry visa is slightly different. With the multiple entry visa, you will be able to enter the country a number of times until the visa expires.
One of the most common temporary visas is the tourist visa. This can only be applied for by people who are going to be entering the country for tourism. You cannot work or complete other activities when you have this visa. If you want to study in Canada, you will need to get a student visa which is also a temporary visa.
The Permanent Visas
As the name suggests, permanent visas allow the holder to settle in the country for a prolonged period of time. There are different visas based on location and the skills that you have. It is important that you choose the right visa to ensure success.
The Federal Skilled Trades program offers a visa for qualified tradespeople. These professionals will need to have a valid qualification and will need to be within a needed trade. A similar program is available for people in other professions under the Federal Skilled Worker program. You will need to check the occupations that Canada needs before you apply to see if you have the necessary points.
There are also Provincial Nomination programs which can be used for semi and low-skilled workers. If you apply for this type of visa, you will need to reside in the province that provides the visa. You will not be able to move to a different province.