Transit Through Canada

Travellers passing through Canada on their way to another country may require a Transit Visa, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), or a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), depending on their nationality. A Transit Visa allows for short-term stays in Canada for a maximum of 48 hours, while an eTA is required for visa-exempt travellers transiting through Canada. Depending on the length of a foreign national’s stay, a TRV may be required.

At Zohil-Morton Law, we assist individuals in determining whether they need a Transit Visa, an eTA, or a TRV, ensuring their travel through Canada is seamless and fully compliant with immigration regulations.

Who Needs a Transit Visa?

A Transit Visa is required for travellers from visa-required countries who meet the following conditions:

• The international flight stops at a Canadian airport on route to another country;
• The foreign national will be connecting between two international flights at one or more Canadian airports;
• The transit through Canada will last up to 48 hours; and,
• The foreign national does not have a valid TRV and is not eligible for an eTA.

Who Needs an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?

Visa-exempt foreign nationals transiting through a Canadian airport by air must obtain an eTA before boarding their flight. An eTA is not required if a foreign national is transiting through Canada by train, bus, boat, or cruise ship.

Who Needs a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)?

A foreign national from a visa-required country who plans to visit Canada, even if travelling by air and staying for less than 48 hours, or who will stay in Canada for over 48 hours while transiting through Canada, will require a TRV. Additionally, an individual from a visa-required country who is transiting through Canada by bus, car, train, boat, or cruise ship will need a TRV.

Exemptions from Transit Visas, eTAs, and TRVs

Certain travellers may be exempt from needing a Transit Visa, an eTA or a TRV under specific exemptions in Canadian immigration laws. These exemptions include:

• U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents transiting through Canada;
• Certain foreign nationals meeting specific criteria, who are flying on specific direct flights under the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) program and are flying through Canada on their way to or from the United States of America; and,
• Chinese nationals meeting specific criteria who are transiting under the China Transit Program (CTP) and are flying through Canada on their way to or from the United States of America.

Legal Assistance to Transit Through Canada

Unclear visa requirements may result in travel delays or denied boarding. At Zohil-Morton Law, we provide guidance to ensure that travellers have the correct documentation in place before their trip, helping them avoid unnecessary complications.

If you are seeking professional advice on Canadian immigration matters, we are here to offer professional guidance and trusted, personalized support. With expertise in Canadian Immigration Law, we provide tailored legal services to ensure your immigration process is seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your Canadian immigration journey.