by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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Understanding Transit Visa Requirements for Canada in 2025
Travelling through Canada en route to another destination? Depending on your nationality, travel documents, and layover arrangements, you may require a Canada Transit Visa. This 2025 guide explains who needs one, exemptions, and how to apply.
What Is a Canada Transit Visa?
A Canada Transit Visa allows for short-term stays in Canada – up to a maximum of 48 hours – if you’re passing through to another country. Visa-exempt travellers typically require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead. Learn more on our Transit Through Canada page.
Who Needs a Transit Visa in 2025?
You will need a Canada Transit Visa if:
- You are a citizen of a visa-required country
- You’ll be connecting between 2 international flights at one or more Canadian airports
- Your international flight stops at a Canadian airport on its way to another country
- You do not have a valid Canadian visitor visa
- Your transit through Canada will last 48 hours or less
- You are not eligible for a valid eTA, or the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) or China Transit Program (CTP)
Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC’s) official list of visa-required countries to confirm your status.
Which Travellers Are Exempt?
You do not need a transit visa if:
- You hold a passport from a visa-exempt country and have a valid eTA
- You meet the eligibility criteria for TWOV or CTP, and transit through approved airports on approved airlines
Transit Without Visa (TWOV) and China Transit Program (CTP)
These programs allow certain travellers from non‑visa‑exempt countries to transit through Canada without a transit visa, as long as they:
- Hold a valid U.S. visa or meet other program conditions
- Travel on approved airlines
- Transit through eligible Canadian international airports
- Remain in the airport’s international transit area and depart Canada within 24 hours
Legal Assistance from Zohil‑Morton Law
If you’re unsure whether you need a transit visa or need help applying for one, Zohil‑Morton Law can assist. We offer support for visitor records, temporary resident visas, and other temporary residence matters as well.
At Zohil‑Morton Law, we provide trusted legal advice to help you navigate complex Canadian immigration processes. Still have questions? Book a consultation today with Cristina Zohil‑Morton and the team at Zohil‑Morton Law.
Stay Informed
To stay updated on Canadian immigration news, policy changes, and legal updates, follow us on social media:
We’re here to keep you informed and empowered on your Canadian immigration journey.
FAQ: Canada Transit Visa 2025
Do I need a visa for a layover in Canada?
If you’re from a visa‑required country and not eligible for an eTA, TWOV or CTP, you will generally need a Canada Transit Visa.
How long can I stay with a transit visa?
You may remain in Canada for up to 48 hours, but must stay within the airport’s designated international transit zone.
Are transit visas free?
Yes, transit visas are free of charge.
Can I leave the airport on a transit visa?
No. If you wish to enter Canada beyond the sterile transit area, you need a regular visitor visa.
What if I’m eligible for TWOV or CTP?
If you meet eligibility criteria – valid U.S. visa, approved airline, transiting through participating airports- you may transit without a Canadian transit visa.
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