Canada Transit Visa: Essential Guide for Indians to Travel Through Canada in 2025

Canada is known as the second-largest country in the world. Its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, multicultural heritage, and historic landmarks attract millions of visitors annually. Canada welcomed 18.34 million visitors in 2023 and has been ranked 18th globally for tourist arrivals.

This guide provides all the details you need about the Canada Transit Visa, from the eligibility and application process to the required documents, processing times, and more.

What is a Canada Transit Visa?

A Canada Transit Visa is an essential permit for travelers passing through Canada. This temporary visa allows travelers (foreign nationals) from certain countries to transit through a Canadian airport on their way to a third country, even if they are not leaving the airport or staying overnight. The visa is essential for countries like India, Brazil, and more. The transit visa is valid for up to 48 hours, after which travelers must have left Canada.

Who Needs a Canada Transit Visa?

Not all travelers need a transit visa to pass through Canada. Here is a breakdown of who requires a Canada transit visa:

• Nationals of Visa-required Countries: Citizens from countries that are on Canada’s visa-required list must obtain a transit visa to pass through Canada. Here is a list of the visa-required countries for Canada.

• Exemptions for Certain Travelers: U.S. citizens and some select visa-exempt travelers do not need a transit visa but may need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if they are arriving by air.

Eligibility Criteria for Canada Transit Visa for Indians

Before applying for a visa for transit in Canada, it is essential to confirm your eligibility for the same. Here are the detailed eligibility criteria you would need to qualify for a visa for Canada transit:

• Purpose of Travel: Your trip should be exclusively for transit purposes. This means that you will not be staying in Canada beyond what is necessary to connect to your next flight. This visa is strictly intended for individuals who are not planning to enter Canada for tourism, work, or study.

• Duration of Stay in Canada: The Canada Transit Visa permits a maximum stay of 48 hours. You must plan your connecting flights to depart from Canada within this time frame. Any stay beyond this duration will require a different type of visa, such as a visitor visa.

• Confirmed Travel Itinerary: To obtain a visa for Canada transit, you must present a confirmed travel itinerary that demonstrates your intended travel to a third country within 48 hours. An onward ticket must be booked, showing a confirmed seat on a flight to a destination outside Canada.

• No Criminal Record or Immigration Violations: The visa for transit in Canada requires applicants to have a clean record with no criminal convictions or previous immigration violations in Canada or other countries.

• Valid Passport and Biometric Requirements: Your passport must be valid for the entirety of your travel through Canada, with at least six months of validity. Biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) is required for certain countries including India. Eligible people need to schedule a biometric collection appointment at an authorized location.

Also Read: Canada Visa Types for Indians

Required Documents for Canada Transit Visa for Indians

The visa for Canada transit requires specific documentation to establish your eligibility, confirm travel plans, and verify personal details. Collecting these documents ensures a smoother application process. Find below the list of documents required for a visa for transit in Canada.

Also Read: Canada Visa Photo Requirements and Specifications

How to Apply for a Canada Transit Visa?

Applying for a visa for Canada transit involves several steps that ensure travelers have the required documentation and meet all eligibility requirements. Here is a guideline on how to apply for a visa to streamline the application process.

Step 1: Check the Visa Requirements

Visit the official IRCC website to confirm if your nationality requires a transit visa. If you are eligible, create an account on the website and apply for the visa.

Step 2: Complete the Application

After you sign in to the website, log in again with the credentials. You will need to answer certain questions. When you complete answering them, you will need to upload a list of documents. Upload the documents and submit your application.

If you are applying offline, download the required form and fill it out. Gather the necessary documents, After that, send the application form and documents to a visa application center.

Step 3: Book Biometric Appointment

After the submission, book a biometric appointment for Canada visas. There you need to provide your fingerprints and photographs. Complete this process as soon as possible because delaying this process will affect your visa processing time.

Step 4: Wait for the Processing

The average processing time for a visa for transit in Canada is a few weeks or less. Track the status of your application online.

Step 6: Prepare for Travel

Once approved, carry a printed copy of your visa, travel itinerary, and other required documents. Ensure that your layover in Canada does not exceed 48 hours.

Quick Reads:

• Canada Visa Application and Tracking Process
• Canada Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Canada Transit Visa Processing Time from India

The processing time for a visa for Canada Transit takes a few weeks, typically 2-3 weeks. It depends on certain factors like the biometric requirements and application volume.

To expedite processing, ensure that all documents, including your completed application form, valid passport, and biometrics are accurate and submitted promptly. The transit visa is free. Processing times vary during peak travel seasons, so applying in advance is recommended.

Also Read: Canada Visa Processing Time

Important Tips for Traveling with a Canada Transit Visa for Indians

Once your visa for Canada transit is approved, it is essential to prepare for your trip to ensure a smooth travel experience through Canadian airports. Here are some points to remember while traveling with a Canada in transit visa.

• Check Flight Connections: Ensure that your layover time is under 48 hours. Otherwise, additional documentation may be required.

• Stay Informed about Airport Policies: Airports in Canada may have specific transit requirements, especially for travelers carrying specific types of goods. Make sure you adhere to the policies.

• Carry Printed Documents: Always carry printed copies of your visa approval, itinerary, and other essential travel documents.

• Prepare for Possible Delays: Be prepared for minor delays due to weather, especially during the winter months.

Also Read: Documents To Carry At Airport For International Travel

Looking for Your Transit Visa Assistance? Connect with GetGIS

Securing a Canada transit visa is a crucial step for travelers passing through Canada en route to other countries. By following the proper application procedures, gathering the necessary documents, and ensuring your eligibility, you will be able to secure your transit visa smoothly.

For all your Canada immigration and travel queries, reach out to trusted immigration consultants like GetGIS. Our immigration assistance team is here to resolve all your Canada Transit visa queries and ensure you have a secure and seamless visa application process.

Book Your Free Consultation

Useful Links

• List of Documents Required For Canada PR
• How to Apply for a Canada Visitor Visa Online?
• Temporary Resident Visa to Canada From India