Canada, renowned for its robust economy and comprehensive healthcare and education systems, continues to be an attractive destination for prospective immigrants. However, the country offers a variety of immigration visa programs, each with distinct criteria and conditions. In this article, Phan Immigration provides an in-depth overview of the most common Canadian immigration visa categories for 2025, assisting you in identifying and selecting the pathway that best aligns with your circumstances.
Canada Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) permits foreign nationals to enter Canada for a specific period for temporary purposes such as tourism, visiting family, business trips, short-term studies, or other special reasons. The TRV encompasses various visa categories, including:
Canada Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents (PG-1)
The Canada Super Visa (PG-1) is designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This visa allows them to visit their children or grandchildren in Canada for extended periods, with stays of up to 5 years per entry and multiple entries over a 10-year validity period.
Upon initial entry, applicants may stay for up to 5 years. Subsequent entries permit stays of up to 2 years for the second entry and 6 months for each following entry. However, during their stay, holders are not authorized to work, study, or access public benefits available to Canadian citizens.
Application Fees:
- Visa Processing Fee: CAD 100 per person; CAD 500 for groups of five or more applicants.
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person; CAD 170 for families of two or more.
- Document Translation and Notarization: Approximately VND 500,000–700,000, depending on the number and type of documents.
Canada Visitor Visa (V) – For Tourism and Family Visits
The Canada Visitor Visa (V), also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is the most common visa type, allowing foreign nationals to enter Canada for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, transiting through Canada, or participating in short-term activities unrelated to work or study.
This visa can be issued as either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. Each entry permits a stay of up to six months. The validity of the visa varies, typically ranging from six months to up to ten years, depending on individual circumstances and the discretion of the visa officer. However, regardless of the visa’s validity, the maximum duration of each stay is generally six months, unless otherwise specified by a border services officer upon entry.
Application Fees:
- Visa Processing Fee:
- CAD 100 per individual
- CAD 500 for families of five or more applying together
- Biometric Fee:
- CAD 85 per individual
- CAD 170 for families of two or more applying together
- Document Translation and Notarization: Approximately VND 500,000–700,000, depending on the number and type of documents.
Giving Birth in Canada
Giving birth in Canada is not an officially recognized visa category under Canadian immigration law. However, many foreign nationals choose to give birth in Canada due to the country’s birthright citizenship policy: with few exceptions (such as children of foreign diplomats), any child born on Canadian soil automatically acquires Canadian citizenship .
Typically, individuals planning to give birth in Canada enter the country on a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV). However, immigration officers have the discretion to deny entry if they suspect that the primary intent of the visit is to obtain citizenship for the child. Misrepresenting the purpose of travel can lead to serious consequences, including a five-year ban from entering Canada .
Foreign nationals who give birth in Canada are responsible for all associated medical expenses, including prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum care, as they are not eligible for Canada’s public healthcare coverage. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover these medical costs and living expenses during their stay .
Given the complexities of immigration regulations, individuals intending to give birth in Canada are strongly advised to consult with an immigration lawyer or certified consultant to ensure proper preparation and compliance with all legal requirements.
Canada Intending Organ Donors Visa
The Canada Intending Organ Donors Visa is a specialized type of Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for individuals who wish to travel to Canada to donate an organ to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. This visa permits entry solely for the purpose of organ donation and allows the donor to remain in Canada during the recovery period following the procedure.
Applicants must demonstrate medical compatibility with the recipient, provide a letter from a Canadian transplant specialist confirming the scheduled procedure, and show proof that the recipient’s provincial or territorial health insurance will cover the medical expenses related to the donation. Additionally, donors are required to have private health insurance to cover any unforeseen medical issues not related to the donation. It’s imperative to establish that the donation is altruistic, with no financial or other compensation involved, to comply with Canada’s strict regulations against organ trafficking.
The visa typically allows for a stay of up to six months. If the donor’s recovery necessitates a longer stay, they may apply for an extension by providing appropriate medical documentation.
Application Fees:
- Visa Application Fee: CAD 100 per person
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person
- Passport Processing Fee: CAD 45 per person
Applicants are advised to consult with immigration professionals or legal experts to ensure all requirements are met and to facilitate a smooth application process.
Canada Study Visa (DL1)
The Canada Study Visa (DL1) is issued to foreign nationals who wish to pursue academic studies at recognized educational institutions in Canada for a specified period. To be eligible, applicants must have received an official letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
Key Features of the Canada Study Visa:
- Limited Validity: The visa’s validity period typically corresponds to the duration of the registered academic program. Students wishing to continue their studies or enroll in a new program must apply for a visa extension.
- Letter of Acceptance Requirement: Applicants must provide an official acceptance letter from a Canadian educational institution when applying for the study visa.
- Proof of Financial Capacity: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and the cost of returning to their home country upon completing their studies.
- Medical and Police Clearance Requirements: In certain cases, applicants may be required to submit medical examination results and/or police clearance certificates.
- Work Conditions: Some types of study visas allow students to work during their studies in Canada, but this is subject to specific conditions and limitations.
Important Note: While the study visa permits entry into Canada, students must also obtain a Study Permit to legally pursue studies in Canada.
CES and SDS Programs:
Between 2016 and 2017, the Government of Canada introduced the Canada Express Study (CES) program to simplify financial proof procedures for students meeting specific conditions for studying in Canada. This program facilitated a faster visa process for many Vietnamese students.
In 2018, CES was replaced by the Study Direct Stream (SDS) program, applicable to four countries: China, India, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Under the SDS program, applicants were required to:
- Purchase a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth CAD 10,000.
- Achieve a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 in each skill.
Note: Currently, both the CES (Canada Express Study) and SDS (Study Direct Stream) programs have been discontinued. CES ended in 2018 and was replaced by SDS. However, from late 2024, the Canadian government officially ceased the SDS program. This means that international students, including those from Vietnam, no longer benefit from expedited visa processing and simplified financial requirements as previously offered.
Canada Work Visa
The Canada Work Visa permits skilled foreign workers to be employed in Canada for up to 3 years. Upon the expiration of this period, applicants may apply for an extension; however, the approval and duration of the extension are subject to the discretion of the Canadian consulate. It is imperative to depart Canada before the visa expires to avoid the risk of removal due to unauthorized overstay.
Application Fees:
- Work Permit Fee:
- CAD 155 per person for employer-specific work permits tied to a particular employer and province.
- CAD 100 per person for open work permits not restricted to a specific employer or location.
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person.
Canada Transit Visa
The Canada Transit Visa is issued to travelers who are stopping over at a Canadian airport for no more than 48 hours en route to another country. This visa is required for citizens of countries that are not exempt from Canadian transit visa requirements, including Vietnam.
Key Details:
- Purpose: For international travelers transiting through Canada without entering the country.
- Duration: Valid for a stay of up to 48 hours.
- Eligibility: Applicable to individuals from visa-required countries who do not hold a valid visitor visa or are not eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
- Fees: There is no application fee for the Canada Transit Visa.
Canada Courtesy Visa
The Canada Courtesy Visa is a multiple-entry visa typically granted to individuals who do not qualify for diplomatic or official visas but are visiting Canada for important purposes, such as participating in significant events or missions. This visa is often issued to diplomats or members of trade delegations.
Key Details:
- Validity: Up to 3 years, with each stay allowing a maximum of 6 months per entry.
- Eligibility: Applicants must hold a significant position and have official responsibilities in Canada but do not meet the criteria for diplomatic or official visas.
- Required Documents: May include a written request from a consular post of their government, a letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a letter to the Canadian Government explaining the purpose of the visit.
- Fees:
- Visa Application Fee: CAD 100 per person.
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person.
- Passport Processing Fee: CAD 45 per person.
Canada Business Visitor Visa (B1)
The Canada Business Visitor Visa (B1) is designed for foreign nationals who intend to visit Canada for short-term business activities without entering the Canadian labor market. This visa is suitable for individuals seeking to explore investment opportunities, attend business meetings, conferences, or engage in other international business endeavors.
Key Features:
- Duration: Up to 6 months per visit.
- Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate that their primary source of income and place of business are outside Canada. Activities permitted under this visa include attending business meetings, conferences, or conducting site visits.
- Restrictions: Holders of this visa are not permitted to work in Canada. If you plan to stay longer than 6 months or intend to work, you must apply for a Temporary Work Permit.
Application Fees:
- Visa Application Fee: CAD 100 per person.
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person.
Canada Immigration Visa Categories
Canada offers various immigration visa categories for applicants seeking to reside in the country on a permanent basis. These include:
Investor Immigration Visa
The Investor Immigration Visa is designed for entrepreneurs and foreign investors who wish to obtain permanent residency in Canada by investing in the Canadian economy.
Currently, there are two prominent investor immigration programs in Canada:
- Start-Up Visa Program (SUV): This is the only program that allows investors to obtain permanent residency while still residing in Vietnam. The key requirements include:
- Innovative Business Idea: The project must be innovative and capable of competing in the global market.
- Support from a Designated Organization: The applicant must secure support from a venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator approved by the Canadian government.
- Language Proficiency: Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in English or French.
- Sufficient Settlement Funds: Proof of financial capacity to support oneself and family members upon arrival in Canada.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): This program allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate applicants who meet their specific economic and labor market needs. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the province. Below is a comparative table of the basic requirements from four popular provinces:
| Province | Minimum Net Worth | Minimum Investment | Management Experience | Education Level | Language Proficiency |
| British Columbia | CAD 600,000 | CAD 200,000 | 3 years as business owner or 4 years as senior manager within the last 10 years | At least 1 year post-secondary | CLB 4 (equivalent to IELTS 4.0) |
| Ontario | CAD 800,000 (Toronto area) / CAD 400,000 (outside Toronto) | CAD 600,000 (Toronto area) / CAD 200,000 (outside Toronto) | 2 years within the last 5 years | High school diploma | CLB 4 (equivalent to IELTS 4.0) |
| New Brunswick | CAD 600,000 | CAD 250,000 | 3 years as business owner or 5 years as senior manager within the last 5 years | At least 2 years post-secondary | CLB 5 (equivalent to IELTS 5.0) |
| Saskatchewan | CAD 500,000 | CAD 300,000 (Regina/Saskatoon) / CAD 200,000 (other regions) | 3 years within the last 10 years | Not specifically required | Not specifically required |
Family Sponsorship Visa
The Family Sponsorship Visa allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their relatives to live in Canada. The primary purpose of this program is to promote family reunification by enabling family members to live together in Canada. Sponsors are required to demonstrate their financial capacity and commit to supporting the sponsored individuals for a specific period.
Eligible family members under this category include:
- Spouse or common-law partner: Must be at least 18 years old and have a genuine relationship with the sponsor.
- Dependent children: Must be under 22 years old and not have a spouse or common-law partner.
- Parents and grandparents: The sponsor must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support the sponsored members for a period ranging from 3 to 5 years.
Additionally, sponsors may also apply to bring extended family members, such as siblings, uncles, aunts, or cousins, although these cases are generally more complex and subject to stricter requirements compared to immediate family sponsorships.
Visa Application Fees:
- Total Fee: CAD 1,205 per person, which includes:
- Sponsorship fee: CAD 85
- Application processing fee: CAD 545
- Right of permanent residence fee: CAD 575
Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP)
The Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP) allowed foreign nationals to come to Canada to provide in-home care for children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. After completing one year of full-time employment under this program, caregivers could apply for permanent residency and subsequently sponsor their family members to join them in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Work Experience or Training: At least 6 months of formal training or 1 year of full-time work experience in a related field within the 3 years prior to application.
- Language Proficiency: Ability to communicate effectively in English or French.
- Employment Contract: A valid job offer and employment contract from a Canadian employer.
Application Fees:
- Principal Applicant: CAD 1,210
- Spouse or Common-law Partner: CAD 1,210
- Dependent Child: CAD 175 per child
Canada Express Entry Visa
In addition to the aforementioned immigration visa categories, the Canadian government has established the Express Entry program to attract highly skilled workers from around the world to settle and contribute to Canada’s economy. This program includes three main immigration streams under Express Entry.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is designed for candidates with high-level skills and experience in occupations that are in demand in Canada.
Key eligibility criteria include:
- Work Experience: At least 1 year of continuous full-time work experience or an equivalent amount of part-time work in the past 10 years, in occupations classified under the TEER categories.
- Education: Possess educational qualifications equivalent to Canadian standards, as assessed by designated educational credential assessment agencies such as CES, WES, or IQAS.
- Language Proficiency: Meet the minimum language requirements in English or French, demonstrated by valid IELTS or TEF certificates.
- CRS Score: Applicants are ranked under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns points based on factors such as age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and other criteria. The minimum score required may vary depending on each Express Entry draw.
Visa Validity: The FSWP visa is typically valid for 1 to 2 years, depending on the employment duration with the Canadian employer or organization.
Visa Application Fees:
- Principal Applicant and Spouse/Common-law Partner: CAD 1,365 per person
- Dependent Child: CAD 230 per person
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is tailored for skilled tradespeople seeking permanent residency in Canada. This program is part of the Express Entry system and targets individuals with experience in specific trades such as electricians, welders, carpenters, and more.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Work Experience: At least two years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time experience) in a skilled trade within the last five years.
- Language Proficiency: Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 5 in speaking and listening, and CLB 4 in reading and writing, demonstrated through an approved English or French language test.
- Certification or Job Offer: Possess either:
- A valid job offer of full-time employment in Canada for at least one year, or
- A certificate of qualification in the skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
Visa Application Fees:
- Processing Fee: CAD 825 per person for the principal applicant and accompanying spouse or common-law partner.
- Dependent Child: CAD 225 per child.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is tailored for foreign nationals currently residing in Canada under a study or temporary work permit who wish to transition to permanent residency. This program evaluates applicants based on the following criteria:
- Work Experience: A minimum of one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years prior to application submission.
- Language Proficiency: Meet the minimum language requirements in English or French, demonstrated through approved language tests.
- Intent to Reside Outside Quebec: Applicants must intend to live outside the province of Quebec.
Note: Applicants with sufficient work experience may also be eligible to apply under other Express Entry programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
Visa Application Fees:
- Processing Fee: CAD 550 per person for all family members.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Visa
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a distinctive immigration program that allows Canadian provinces and territories (except Nunavut and Quebec) to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to and settle permanently in their respective regions.
The primary goal of the PNP is to attract skilled foreign workers and experienced professionals to Canada to support local economic development and address labor shortages in specific areas. Under the program, nominees are expected to reside in the designated province or territory for at least two years. Relocating to another province before fulfilling this residency requirement may complicate future applications for Canadian citizenship.
Visa Application Fees:
- Processing Fee: CAD 825 per adult applicant.
- Dependent Child Fee: CAD 225 per child.
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD 500 per adult applicant (exempt for dependent children).
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person, or CAD 170 for families of two or more, if applicable.
Phan Immigration – Trusted Canada Immigration Visa Support
Phan Immigration is a licensed immigration consulting firm authorized by the Government of Canada. Our mission is to connect Vietnamese individuals and families with safe, efficient, and cost-effective pathways to settle in Canada. At Phan Immigration, we do more than assist clients with immigration procedures—we accompany and support you throughout your integration process, career development, and the journey of building a new life in Canada.
Key Advantages of Phan Immigration:
- Strong Expertise: Our team of immigration consultants has over 15 years of experience and is licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). We ensure a thorough understanding of Canadian immigration laws and provide professional, dedicated services.
- Personalized Solutions: We offer tailored consulting solutions, from short-term visa categories to long-term immigration programs, optimizing each client’s chances of successful immigration to Canada.
- Reliable Partner Network: Phan Immigration has established an extensive network of trusted partners, including immigration lawyers, economic law firms, and reputable businesses in Canada, helping clients integrate smoothly and advance their careers.
- Commitment to Transparency and Accountability: Transparency in information, processes, and fees is always our top priority. Phan Immigration is committed to accompanying and taking responsibility for every step of the application process.
Currently, Phan Immigration offers consulting and support services for various Canadian immigration programs, with a particular focus on permanent residency consulting services. By choosing this program, our team of highly experienced and knowledgeable consultants will help optimize your application to achieve the highest possible score, thereby increasing your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.
In addition, our services save you valuable time and effort in researching information and preparing documents, while helping you avoid common mistakes that could lead to visa refusal.
Immigrating to Canada is an important life decision, and Phan Immigration is committed to accompanying and supporting you every step of the way, ensuring that potential challenges are addressed so you can confidently build your future in the land of the maple leaf.
Through the information shared above on various Canadian immigration visa programs, we hope you can choose the pathway that best fits your circumstances. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Phan Immigration today to receive personalized advice and start your new journey.
