Key points
- A US visa such as a B1/B2 does not let you enter Canada; depending on your nationality you may need a Canada eTA or a Visitor Visa (TRV).
- US citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are visa-exempt for Canada, but should carry valid identification.
- Transiting through Canada still has requirements, though some travelers may qualify under the Transit Without Visa program.
- The Advance CBSA Declaration (ArriveCAN) is an optional way to submit your customs declaration before arriving by air.
Thinking about visiting Canada on your trip to the United States? A US visa, such as a B1/B2 visa, doesn’t allow entry into Canada.
There are, however, other options that let you see this beautiful country.
Whether you hold a tourist, business, student, or work visa, this article explains the possibilities and limitations of crossing the Canadian border with your US visa.
Is it possible to travel to Canada with a US visa?
In most cases, you can’t travel to Canada with only a US visa. Canada has its own entry rules, and most travelers still need either a Canada eTA or a Canada Visitor Visa (TRV) to visit or transit through the country.
What you need depends on your nationality, the travel document you’ll use, and how you’re entering Canada. For example, some travelers need a Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), while others must apply for a Canada Visitor Visa (TRV).
Who doesn’t need a Canadian visa?
Some travelers are visa-exempt, meaning they don’t need a visitor visa (and in some cases don’t need an eTA either):
- US citizens are generally visa-exempt and don’t need a visitor visa or eTA to travel to Canada. They must travel with valid identification, such as a passport.
- Lawful permanent residents of the United States (green card holders) are also exempt from the eTA requirement. They must carry a valid passport from their country of nationality and a valid green card (or other proof of US permanent resident status) when traveling to Canada.
iVisa tip: Pre-book a security screening time at some Canadian airports like Toronto Pearson to skip the long lines and breeze through security.
Canadian immigration policies to enter from the United States
Even if you have a valid US visa, Canada sets its own entry rules, and most travelers still need either a Canadian visitor visa (TRV) or an eTA to enter or transit through the country.
What you need depends on:
- The type of travel document you’ll use to travel
- The country that issued your travel document
- Your nationality
- How you’re traveling to Canada (for example, by air vs. land or sea)
This means that whether you hold a US tourist, student, or work visa, you still need to meet Canada’s entry requirements based on the factors above.
What US visa holders should know to transit through Canada
If you’re only passing through Canada on your way to another destination, you’ll still need to meet Canada’s transit requirements.
- Depending on your nationality, you may need a Canada eTA or Visitor Visa, even if you’re not staying in Canada.
- In limited situations, some travelers may be eligible to transit through Canada without a visa under the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) program. Eligibility depends on your nationality, route, airline, and airport.
How to get the Canada eTA and Canada Advance CBSA Declaration (ArriveCAN) with us
We’ve simplified the online application process to make it quick and straightforward. Just follow these steps using our mobile app or online platform:
- Step 1: Select the right travel document and start your application by filling out your personal and travel details. Take a moment to double-check all the information for accuracy.
- Step 2: Pay the fees using your credit/debit card or PayPal. The fees cover the government charge plus our service fee. After payment, we’ll send you a comprehensive PDF guide by email to guide you through the rest of the application process.
- Step 3: Complete any additional required information and upload the necessary documentation.
Once your application is approved, we’ll email your confirmation and provide instructions for your next steps.
Optional customs declaration before you arrive
If you’re arriving by air at one of Canada’s participating international airports, you can submit your customs and immigration declaration online up to 72 hours before arrival using the Canada Advance CBSA Declaration (ArriveCAN). This is optional and can help save time at the airport.
Read more about the Canada Advance CBSA Declaration (ArriveCAN)
Why use iVisa for your travel documents
There are many reasons to choose iVisa:
- We simplify the process of obtaining your travel documents.
- We prioritize the security of your data, ensuring your credit card details are kept confidential.
- Our application method is easy to follow and often less cumbersome than those found on some government websites.
- We’ve successfully assisted more than 3 million customers.
“I wasn’t sure if I should use a third-party service like iVisa for my Canada eTA, but I’m so glad I did. The process was quick, and their support team answered my questions when I was unsure about some of the form’s details. I’d use them again just for the peace of mind.” – Sarah W., United Kingdom
Contact us for more info about traveling to Canada
If you have more questions about applying for a Canada eTA, don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team. We’ll be happy to help via iVisa chat or WhatsApp.
