I always encourage my readers to get their US visas at some point. Having a US visa will open up many doors. Of course, you can travel to the US, but you can also travel to 51 countries VISA-FREE with US visa.
But, many fear that the US visa is the most difficult to get.
Well, there is an alternative – CANADA VISA.
Canada visa is the second-best visa. You can travel 38 countries VISA-FREE with Canada visa.
The best thing about a Canada visa is that there is NO VISA INTERVIEW.
The US visa interview process is frightening to many. If you have been to one, you would know what I mean. The high security at the consulate, lining up in the street outside the building, intimidating visa officers, questions that you were not prepared for, and the list goes on.
If you do not have a US consulate in your city, you have to travel to the nearest city where the US consulate is. The visa fee itself is quite steep and on top of that, these travel expenses can add up.
Table of Contents
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
Visa requirements change constantly but we make every effort to keep the information accurate and up to date. We provide links to official sources wherever necessary, so you can conduct your own due diligence to verify the visa requirements before planning your trip. We shall not be held liable for any damages incurred as a result of using the information in this article. Refer to our full disclaimer for more information.
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Why should you get a Canada tourist visa?
Though a Canada visa doesn’t offer as much VISA-FREE travel as a US visa, a Canada visa has its own advantages.
- Canada visa application has no visa interview.
- Canada tourist visa is also a long-term visa. Usually issued for 10 years or until the expiration of your passport.
- The fee for Canada tourist visa is much lesser. It’s only $100 CAD.
- India and China passport holders can even take advantage of the CAN+ expedited program.
- Last but not the least, Canada itself is a beautiful country. Have you ever seen the pictures of Banff National Park? Just Google it. It’s spectacular. That’s just one example. The country is vast, diverse and a nature lover’s paradise. It’s also culturally diverse and the people are the most polite in the world.
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Which Canada visas are eligible?
Depending on the country, any of the below Canada visas can be used.
- Canada Visitor Visa (V-1)
- Canada Work Visa (W-1)
- Canada Student Visa (S-1 and SW-1)
- Canada Transit Visa (VH-1)
Refer to each country below for permitted Canada visa types. Some countries require the Canada visa to be multiple entries and have been used at least once to travel to Canada.
A Canadian PR card can also be to used for some of these countries. However, some countries only accept Canadian visas. Refer to my article on VISA-FREE countries for Canadian PR holders for more information.
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North America
01. Canada
- Of course!
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02. Mexico
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 180 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid for the entire stay in Mexico
- Original sources:
RELATED: 50 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with US visa in 2023
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Central America
03. Belize
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Original sources:
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04. Costa Rica
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: Valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas – visitor, work and study only
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visitor visa must be valid for at least 30 days from the day of arrival
- Canada student/work visas must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- Original sources:
Personal experience: I entered Costa Rica at San Jose airport with my India passport and Canada visa. The immigration procedure at the airport took about 10 minutes due to the long lines. I was given only a 15-day entry.
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05. El Salvador
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Benin
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Cape Verde
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- China
- Comoros
- Cote d’Ivoire
- Djibouti
- Dominica
- Egypt
- Equatorial Guinea
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Grenada
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Guyana
- India
- Jamaica
- Kazakhstan
- Kiribati
- Kyrgyzstan
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Maldives
- Mauritania
- Mauritius
- Micronesia
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- Myanmar
- Namibia
- Nauru
- Niger
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Philippines
- Rwanda
- Samoa
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- South Sudan
- Suriname
- Swaziland
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Togo
- Tonga
- Tunisia
- Turkmenistan
- Uganda
- Uzbekistan
- Zambia
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 90 days total in the entire CA-4 zone (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua)
- Entry rules:
- An entry fee of $10 USD will be charged if entering by air
- If you have already entered Guatemala or Honduras, you can enter El Salvador from Guatemala or Honduras by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement
- Original sources:
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06. Guatemala
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Benin
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Cape Verde
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- Comoros
- Cote d’Ivoire
- Djibouti
- Dominica
- Egypt
- Equatorial Guinea
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Grenada
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Guyana
- India
- Jamaica
- Kazakhstan
- Kiribati
- Kyrgyzstan
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Maldives
- Mauritania
- Mauritius
- Micronesia
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- Myanmar
- Namibia
- Nauru
- Niger
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Philippines
- Rwanda
- Samoa
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- South Sudan
- Suriname
- Swaziland
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Togo
- Tonga
- Tunisia
- Turkmenistan
- Uganda
- Uzbekistan
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 90 days total in the entire CA-4 zone (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua)
- Entry rules:
- If you have already entered Honduras or El Salvador, you can enter Guatemala from Honduras or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement.
- Original sources:
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07. Honduras
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Benin
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Cape Verde
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- China
- Comoros
- Cote d’Ivoire
- Djibouti
- Dominica
- Egypt
- Equatorial Guinea
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Grenada
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Guyana
- Hong Kong
- India
- Jamaica
- Kazakhstan
- Kiribati
- Kyrgyzstan
- Lesotho
- Macau
- Malawi
- Maldives
- Mauritania
- Mauritius
- Micronesia
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- Myanmar
- Namibia
- Nauru
- Niger
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Philippines
- Rwanda
- Samoa
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- South Sudan
- Suriname
- Swaziland
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Togo
- Tonga
- Tunisia
- Turkmenistan
- Uganda
- Uzbekistan
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 90 days total in the entire CA-4 zone (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua)
- Entry rules:
- Visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- If you have already entered Guatemala or El Salvador, you can enter Honduras from Guatemala or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement.
- Original sources:
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08. Nicaragua
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Afghanistan
- Albania
- Armenia
- Bangladesh
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Botswana
- Cameroon
- Congo, Dem Rep of
- Congo, Rep of
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- India
- Iraq
- Kenya
- Laos
- Liberia
- Libya
- Mali
- Mongolia
- Nepal
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- Sri Lanka
- Sudan
- Syria
- Timor-Leste
- Yemen
- Vietnam
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
- VOA fee is $50 USD, payable in USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
- Besides VOA fee, there is $10 USD entry fee, $2 USD land border migration fee (for land border only) and $1 USD municipality tax (for land border only) (payable in USD only)
- Original sources:
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09. Panama
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must have been used at least once to enter Canada before
- Canada visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- Passport must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
- Must show proof of economic solvency for a minimum of $500 USD
- Original sources:
RELATED: 40 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa in 2023
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Caribbean
10. Anguilla (British Territory)
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 90 days
- Original sources:
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11. Antigua and Barbuda
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
- VOA fee is $100 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
- Canada visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- Original sources:
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12. Aruba
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Bolivia
- China
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
- Haiti
- India
- Jamaica
- Venezuela
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Original sources:
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13. Bahamas
- Eligible nationalities: India passport holders only
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 90 days
- Original sources:
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14. Bermuda (British Territory)
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
- Original sources:
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15. Bonaire (Dutch Territory)
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Bolivia
- China
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
- Haiti
- India
- Jamaica
- Venezuela
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 90 days
- Original sources:
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16. British Virgin Islands (British Territory)
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 180 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- Original sources:
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17. Cayman Islands (British Territory)
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- China
- India
- Jamaica
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Must arrive directly from Canada
- Original sources:
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18. Cuba
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: Valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas – visitor, work and study visas only
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Must hold the Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista), which can be obtained from (a) Cuban Embassies and Consulates, (b) Authorized Airlines at the time of check-in or (c) Travel Agencies specializing in Cuba tours
- Original sources:
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19. Curaçao
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Bolivia
- China
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
- Haiti
- India
- Venezuela
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 90 days
- Original sources:
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20. Dominican Republic
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas, except VH-1 (transit)
- Entry granted: 90 days
- Entry rules:
- If arriving by land or sea, must purchase a Tourist Card on arrival for $20 USD. If arriving by air, the tourist card is included in the airfare.
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- Original sources:
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21. Haiti
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Colombia
- Dominican Republic
- Panama
- Cuba
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 90 days
- Entry rules:
- A tourist fee of $10 USD must be paid on arrival at the airport
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- Original sources:
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22. Jamaica
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Albania
- Belarus
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Dominican Republic
- Honduras
- Kazakhstan
- Macedonia
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- Romania
- Serbia
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid for at least 30 days from the day of arrival
- Original sources:
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23. Sint Maarten
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Bolivia
- China
- Colombia
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
- Guyana
- Haiti
- India
- Jamaica
- Peru
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid for at least 30 days from the day of arrival
- Original sources:
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24. Turks and Caicos (British Territory)
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas, except VH-1 (transit)
- Entry granted: 90 days
- Original sources:
RELATED: 51 non-Schengen countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Schengen visa in 2023
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South America
25. Peru
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- China
- India
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 180 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- Original sources:
RELATED: How to book flight tickets with 24 hour FREE cancellation on Expedia – A step-by-step guide
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Europe
26. Armenia
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Algeria
- Bahrain
- Belize
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Brunei
- Cambodia
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Cuba
- Egypt
- Fiji
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Haiti
- Honduras
- India
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jamaica
- Kiribati
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Marshall Islands
- Micronesia
- Mongolia
- Morocco
- Myanmar
- Nauru
- Nicaragua
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Philippines
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Samoa
- Saudi Arabia
- Solomon Islands
- Suriname
- Timor-Leste
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tunisia
- Turkmenistan
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 120 days
- Entry rules:
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
- VOA fee is 3,000 AMD, valid for 21 days, single-entry (OR) 15,000 AMD, valid for 120 days, single-entry
- Visa must be a sticker on the passport, E-visa prints are not accepted
- Passport must be valid during the entire stay in Armenia
- Original sources:
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27. Georgia
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 90 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid on the day of arrival in Georgia
- Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period
- Original sources:
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28. Montenegro
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid for the intended period of stay
- Original sources:
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29. North Macedonia
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 15 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid for at least 5 days beyond the intended period of stay
- Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 3 months in any 6 months period
- Original sources:
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30. United Kingdom
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 24 hours only (Transit Without Visa)
- Entry rules:
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to request a 24-hour entry at London’s Heathrow airport
- You must be traveling to or from Canada only
- Must arrive and depart by air only
- Must hold the boarding pass for the onward flight
- Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or the next day before midnight)
- Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
- Original sources:
RELATED: How to turn your weak passport into a strong passport (with examples)
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Middle East
31. Oman
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Albania
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Bhutan
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Costa Rica
- Cuba
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- India
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Maldives
- Mexico
- Morocco
- Nicaragua
- Panama
- Peru
- Tajikistan
- Turkmenistan
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Visa ON ARRIVAL at any airport, land border or seaport
- VOA fee is 20 OMR, valid for 30 days, single entry only
- Original sources:
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32. Qatar
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas, except VH-1 (transit)
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- You can enter Qatar VISA-FREE but are encouraged to apply for A3 Visa (ETA) on the Hayya portal or mobile app for E-gate usage at the airports
- ETA fee is QAR 100, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
- Canada visa must be valid on the day of arrival or day of application (if applying for ETA)
- Original sources:
RELATED: 5 ways to get proof of onward travel for your next trip
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Africa
33. Egypt
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT but is eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL at all international airports
- VOA fee is $25 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
- Canada visa must have been used to enter Canada at least once
- Original sources:
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Asia
34. Japan
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
- Permitted visas: All valid used multiple-entry Canada RESIDENT visas such as student, work, etc
- Entry granted: 90 days
- Entry rules:
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Japan eVisa
- EVisa fee is JPY 3,000 (about $20 USD), valid for 90 days, single-entry only
- Must show the visa issuance confirmation via the eVisa website on your phone at the immigration. Prints and PDFs are not accepted.
- Must enter Japan by flight only
- IMPORTANT: Canadian tourist visas are NOT accepted. You must provide proof of residence in Canada to apply for eVisa.
- Original sources:
35. Philippines
- Eligible nationalities: Following passport holders only
- China
- India
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 14 days
- Entry rules:
- Canada visa must be valid for the entire duration of the stay
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure
- Original sources:
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36. Singapore
- Eligible nationalities: Following passport holders only
- China
- India
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas, except VH-1 (transit)
- Entry granted: 96 hours (4 days)
- Entry rules:
- Must be traveling to or from the country of passport. Example: Must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore or traveling to India from a third country via Singapore. An example itinerary would be India-Singapore-Bali or Bali-Singapore-India.
- Both arriving and departing flights in Singapore must be on the same itinerary
- Original sources:
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37. South Korea
- Eligible nationalities: All nationalities (except these 23 nationalities – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameron, Cuba, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen)
- Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas, except VH-1 (transit)
- Entry granted: 30 days
- Entry rules:
- Must be traveling to Canada, US, Australia or New Zealand through South Korea (OR)
- Must be traveling from Canada, US, Australia, or New Zealand to a third country through South Korea
- Original sources:
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38. Taiwan
- Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only
- Cambodia
- India
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Myanmar
- Vietnam
- Permitted visas: All valid/expired used/unused multiple-entry Canada visas
- Entry granted: 14 days
- Entry rules:
- Visa is EXEMPT but must apply for ROC Travel Authorization Certificate online before arrival
- ROC Travel Authorization Certificate is free of charge, valid for 90 days, multiple-entry
- If using an EXPIRED visa, the visa must have expired within the last 10 years
- Original sources:
RELATED: What to pack for international travel
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Conclusion
There you have it! List of 38 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Canada visa. If you don’t have a Canada visa, it’s time to apply for one and add another 38 to your list of VISA-FREE countries.
Do you know any other country (I haven’t listed here) that offers visa exemption for Canada visa holders? Let me know in the comments below.
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Jean paul Saliba says
Hello, I have a Lebanese Passport and I have a Canadian multiple-entry V1 tourist visa. Can I enter Costa Rica with less than 6 months left on my Canadian visa?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Jean Paul! Yes, you can enter Costa Rica with your Canadian tourist visa. Your Canadian tourist visa must be valid for at least 30 days at the time of entering Costa Rica.
Alexus Gil says
Hi – I’m planning to travel from the UAE to the USA this coming February 2023, transiting via LHR using my PH passport holding the USA and a Canadian visa. Can I exit the country (UK) for a while without a Transit Visa?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Alexus! Yes, you can go to the immigration at LHR and request for a 24hr entry. This depends on the discretion of the immigration officer, but as long as you meet the requirements, they will grant you the 24hr entry.
Shallom kigbu says
Hello sir, I am a Nigerian with a Canadian student permit. I want to travel to Atlanta Georgia (USA) will I need a visa or can I make use of the student visa?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Shallom! You would need a US B1/B2 visa to travel to the US. You cannot use your Canada student visa.
James Francis S. Garcia says
Hi! I will be arriving in Canada by February and want to go somewhere like El Salvador or Peru before Christmas. What I don’t understand is if I want to go to the countries I mentioned above, do I only need to show them my SW1 Visa and other documents VOA, etc? Or do I need to have additional documents like “Permanent Resident Permits”? Thank you so much!
Thirumal Motati says
Hi James! You haven’t mentioned your nationality. Only certain nationalities are allowed to use Canada visas to enter certain countries. For example, El Salvador accepts Canadian visas only from 64 nationalities. Similarly, Peru accepts Canadian visas only from Indian and Chinese nationals. For most countries, you only need an “eligible passport” and a Canada visa. Some countries require you to obtain a Visa on Arrival which might require filling out some forms and some countries require an e-visa prior to your arrival. I have mentioned all such details for each country in the article.
Dilpreet says
I just got my study visa for Canada and before going there I want to spend a few days in South Korea. Is my flight ticket to Canada enough to get my stay in Korea granted or do I need something else?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Dilpreet! All you need is your flight ticket to Canada within 30 days of arrival. But keep in mind that South Korea may not open yet for tourism. They had plans to open on June 01 but I’m not sure. So please check if South Korea is open and honoring Canada/US visas.
Rochelle leonor says
I’m a Philippine passport holder with a Canada issued tourist visa (V-1) but I want to travel to Korea first before going to Canada. Do I still need a visa for Korea or do I only need my Canada one?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Rochelle! Technically, you only need your Canada visa to enter Korea while you are on your way to Canada. But I’m not sure if Korea is allowing entry based on US/Canada visas post-pandemic. I don’t have confirmation from them, so I suggest contacting the Korea ministry of foreign affairs or the Korean embassy in Manila for confirmation.
Dilpreet says
I just received my study permit for Canada and before going there I am planning to stay in South Korea for a few days. Is my flight ticket from Korea to Canada enough to get my stay granted in Korea?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Dilpreet! Yes, all you need is your flight ticket from Korea to Canada within 30 days of the date of arrival. Even though Korea is now open for tourism, it may not be open fully. So do your due diligence and confirm before booking your flight tickets.
Maya says
Hi, if you are from Trinidad, a country in the Caribbean and have a Canadian visa, can u go to the USA?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Maya! Unfortunately, no. For the USA, you would need a US B1/B2 visa.
Sukhvinder Kaur says
Can I go to Guyana without a visa if I am a work permit holder in Canada and nationality India?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Sukhvinder! No. Guyana does not allow Canadian visas. You must apply for a Guyana visa.
Abhishek says
Hi, could you please create such a list for all other countries’ visas, countries which are considered strong such as Australia, Japan and also on Schengen visa? Would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Abhishek! Absolutely! These are already in the works. I will publish them soon. For the Schengen visa, I already have an article on VISA-FREE travel with a Schengen visa. Check it out.
Rutuja says
Hi, I am an Indian passport holder with a valid Canada study permit. Can I travel to the Bahamas without a visa?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Rutuja! Yes, you can. But your student visa must be multiple-entry, valid and must be in your passport at the time of entering the Bahamas.
Biswajeet says
Hello, Mr. Thirumal Motati I want to ask you that I have Canada visa so can I go to South Korea? Why did I not go to any country before today and my visa to South Korea was rejected earlier. so now i can go to korea for turisim and this is my first time so help me a little. Thank you 😊
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Biswajeet! Yes, you can travel to South Korea using your Canada visa but you must be traveling to Canada from a third country via South Korea or from Canada to a third country via South Korea. That being said, please keep in mind that South Korea may not have started this visa exemption yet, please contact the authorities to confirm.
Vikesh says
I am Indian citizens with Canada PR card. Free with out visa United Kingdom(London)?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Vikesh! No. You CANNOT enter UK with your Canada PR. You would need a UK visitor visa.
Sourav says
Hey one of my friends who has a Canada study permit and Indian citizen can he travel to FRANCE?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Sourav! Unfortunately, France does not allow Canadian visas. Therefore, your friend needs a Schengen visa to travel to France.
Radha Bordia says
Hello, I have a Canadian PR and a Canadian 10-year tourist visa. But the holder of Indian Passport. Can I visit the Philippines under the current world scenario?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Radha! The Philippines is still under the COVID impact and opening its borders now slowly. Currently, only certain nationalities can enter the Philippines and unfortunately, India is not on that list.
Kunal Gandotra says
I’m a student in Canada. I want to visit Cancun is it ok to go there in between my studies? Do I get my entry easily? If they denied me where will they send me, India or Canada?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Kunal! Yes. You can visit Cancun using your Canada student visa. It’s quite easy to get entry into Mexico using a Canada visa. I’m very much certain that you’ll get entry, but if they send you back, they will send you back to where you came from, that would be Canada.
NAINA says
I am holding a Canadian student visa. I was planning to travel through an indirect route, Delhi-Frankfurt. and Frankfurt-Toronto on 2 different PNRs. Can I stay in Frankfurt for 1 day until I get my RTPCR report? And do I need a Schengen visa?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi Naina! If you have two different PNRs, then the final destination for your Delhi-Frankfurt ticket will be Frankfurt. The airline will ask for your Schengen visa otherwise they will not let you board your flight in Delhi. Therefore, with 2 PNRs, you will need a Schengen visa.
With your Canadian student visa, you can transit (airside only) via Frankfurt without needing a Schengen visa. The flights must be on the same (single) PNR and you must NOT leave the transit area.
JC says
I’m a Philippine passport holder with a valid Canada Student Visa. Can I travel to Croatia using this before my study starts next year?
Thirumal Motati says
Hi JC! Unfortunately, Croatia does not allow Canada visas. You must have a visa from Croatia or a Schengen visa.
Zohaib says
What if someone has an IM1 visa for Canada, which is a single entry visa to Canada to get permanent residence in Canada? Can we travel to these countries with this IM1 visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Zohaib! Almost all countries on this list require a multiple-entry visa. You can still try entering with your IM1 visa but there is a risk of being turned away.
Khuong Tran says
I already have a Canadian temporary visitor visa, and when travel is back with its normal condition as similar as it’s before the pandemic, then I am able to stay in London no more than 24 hours and the next destination must be Canada? Thank you!
Thirumal says
Hi Tran! Yes, if your final destination is Canada and your transit in London Heathrow is less than 24 hours, you can ask permission to leave the airport to visit the city. Keep in mind that granting permission to leave is at the discretion of the immigration officer. Many of the readers were able to get permission and leave the airport.
Anand says
Hello Mr Thirumal, this website is a goldmine in terms of info. Keep up the good work.
My question would be a bit rhetorical in nature. I intend to travel to Mexico to get married. I’m a holder of a multiple entry V-1 visa to Canada. I’m an Indian national. Hope this is straightforward and no issues as such.
Thirumal says
Hi Anand! Appreciate the kind words! Yes, you can enter Mexico using your Canada V-1 visa. Mexico is popular for destination weddings, so entering as a tourist is perfectly fine for getting married in Mexico. But if your partner is a Mexican citizen, you might want to check with the authorities on the procedure.
Rumela Chowdhury says
What did you mean by ‘ELIGIBLE NATIONALITIES’ and ‘PERMITTED RESIDENCE PERMIT’ tabs?
Thirumal says
Hi Rumela! It means that ONLY those passport holders having those residence permits can enter the country VISA-FREE.
Wale says
Please sir, can I use a Canada transit visa to transit through the U.K?
Thirumal says
Hi Wale! Yes, if your Canada transit visa is valid, then you can use it to transit through the UK.
Soheil Vagharfard says
Hi, I am holding an Iranian passport however, I’m holding a Canadian student visa too and Im a United Arab Emirates resident. Can I travel to Mexico or the Bahamas with this situation?
Thirumal says
Hi Soheil! Mexico – yes. But Bahamas – no. With your Iranian passport and Canadian student visa, you can visit Mexico. But you cannot enter the Bahamas. Visa exemption to the Bahamas with Canada visa is only for “Indian” nationals. Since you hold a Iranian passport, you are not eligible for visa exemption. You have to apply for the Bahamas visa at your nearest Bahamas embassy.
Jamil says
Hi brother, I am a Bangladeshi citizen from Canada. I am a student. So, can I get into the UK for 24 hours? I have a valid study visa but I need written information that Canadian valid visa has the right to get entry UK up to 24 hours. Because I have to show it at immigration control if they don’t let me get inside. Help me. Where did you get this information I did not find it on the UK website!
Thirumal says
Hi Jamil! There is no official documentation/website for the 24-hour entry. It’s the same as “transit without a visa”. If you qualify for transit without a visa, then you can request for 24-hour entry at the immigration at Heathrow airport. Keep in mind that issuing 24-hour entry is at the discretion of the immigration officer. The immigration officer must be convinced that you qualify for “transit without a visa”.
Many readers have obtained 24-hour entry at Heathrow airport without any issues. You can find their experiences in the comments of this article and also the below article and FB group.
– VISA-FREE travel with US visa
– Visa Traveler Support FB group
Miriam says
Hi there, we’re planning to go to Israel. My husband is Canadian PR but holds a Philippine passport. Does he need a visa to enter Israel? Thanks in advance!
Thirumal says
Hi Miriam! No. He does not need a visa to enter Israel. Philippines passport holders are visa exempted for Israel.
Navdeep Kaur says
Hey, currently I am living in Canada on my work permit. I came here as a student and have applied for my immigration, which is in process. I am an Indian originally. Which countries I can visit without visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Navdeep! Except for Chile, you will be able to enter all the countries listed in this article with your India passport and Canada work visa. Let me know the countries you would like to visit, I can research and confirm if you can use your Canada work visa.
Fahed Zakka says
I have a Canadian study permit. I do not need a visa to visit Mexico as a tourist?
Thirumal says
Hi Fahed! If your Canada study permit is a “visa sticker” in your passport, then you don’t need a visa for Mexico. When you arrive in Mexico, you just have to present your Canada visa.
Aditi says
Hello sir, I have an Indian passport and currently, I am in Canada for the semester exchange. I have Canadian multiple entry visitors visa of 9 years. What kind of Visa should I apply for to visit Canada for around 10-15 days to tour. I ain’t sure if a Canadian visa will help in any way.
Thirumal says
Hi Aditi! I am a bit confused. You said you have a Canada visa but you are asking what visa you need to visit Canada? Could you be more specific? Is it something you are asking for someone else or about some other country?
Nivia George says
Hi, I am having Canada V-1 visa and I am a resident of UAE. Can I get on arrival visa in South Korea for 30 days? I don’t have any plan for Canada visit on this trip.
Thirumal says
Hi Nivia! You can enter South Korea with your Canada visa only if
(a) you are traveling to Canada via South Korea (OR)
(b) you are traveling from Canada to another country via South Korea.
Therefore, Canada must be on your itinerary, Otherwise, you will not be allowed to enter.
Amruta says
Is it possible and legal for Indians holding a Canada work visa to travel to Gulf countries visa-free? If yes, then for how many days can I stay in that country legally? Also, is there any option to extend the visa in case I exceed the permissible limit of stay? Or do I need to apply for a separate visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Amruta! Yes. Oman and Qatar. You can get eVisas for these two countries using your Canada work visa. You can stay 30 days on eVisa and extensions are allowed. Please refer to the “more info” links I have provided for Oman and Qatar.
Stanley says
I have a Canadian B1 visa. I am traveling to Africa but I have a layover for about 10 hours in London. Can I use my visa to enter the country during my layover?
Thirumal says
Hi Stanley! Yes. You can request a “24-hour entry” at London’s Heathrow airport using your Canada visa. Keep in kind that granting you a “24-hour entry” is at the discretion of the immigration officer.
usa says
Hi! I have a Canadian student visa and I want to visit Mexico for 6 days. Do I need to apply for a Mexico visa.
Thirumal says
Hi Usa! You DO NOT NEED a Mexico visa. You can use your Canada student visa to visit Mexico.
Funnu says
Hello, I’m a student in a Canadian university with a study permit and I’m originally from Nigeria (I’ve Nigerian passport). Which countries can I visit without a visa since I have a Canadian student visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Funnu! You can travel to quite a few countries on this list. Look at the “Eligible nationalities” and “Permitted visas” for each of the countries on the list. I have clearly indicated which nationalities and what visas can be used.
Haris Khan says
Hi Thirumal, my Canada visit visa is for 2 years and getting expired on June 2020. If I apply for new passport 4 months earlier before expiry, can I travel to Canada with visa on old passport and with the new passport? Please guide.
Thirumal says
Hi Haris! Yes, you can. Your Canada visa in your old passport will still be valid until it’s expiry. Carry your old and new passport whenever you travel.
Raa says
Hi sir! I have a Canadian tourist Visa. I am from Iran. Based on this article I am eligible to go to Costa Rica. So should I first be landed in Canada or I can travel directly from my country to costa rica?
Since I don’t have a US visa, is it possible to fly with USA airlines (from Vancouver to Costa rica)
Thanks
Raa
Thirumal says
Hi Raa! Yes, you can travel directly to Costa Rica from your country. Keep in mind that your Canada tourist visa must be multiple-entry.
No. You cannot transit through the US without a US visa. If you are in Vancouver, I suggest flights Canada-Mexico-CostaRica or Canada-Panama-CostaRica. That way, you don’t have to transit through the US. You can use your Canada visa to transit through Mexico and Panama.
ash says
Hi, I have India passport and Canada study visa. Can I travel to Belize?
Thirumal says
Hi Ash! The Canadian consulate in Alberta updated it’s website that anyone with multiple-entry Canada visa can enter Belize without a visa. This information is not updated on all sites, so it’s difficult to confirm. I suggest contacting your nearest Belize embassy/consulate.
BANA MBUDZA says
Hi! I have a Congolese passport with a Canadian pr visa multiple-entry. Can I go to Mexico?
Thirumal says
Hi Bana! Yes, you can travel to Mexico using your Congolese passport and Canada multiple entry visa. You do not need a separate Mexico visa.
Saeid says
Hi Thirumal!
Thanks for starting such an awesome discussion! I hold an Iranian passport and am studying in Canada as an international student (I hold study permit). I was wondering if I need a visa to visit Colombia as a tourist?
Thanks!
Saeid
Thirumal says
Hi Saeid! Iranian passport holders REQUIRE visa to enter Colombia. You cannot use your Canada visa. More information here -> https://www.cancilleria.gov.co/en/procedures_services/visa/requirements
Juliet Seda says
Hi, I am from Kenya and I have a valid Canadian student visa. Which countries can I visit visa free?
Thirumal says
Hi Juliet! You can visit all the countries in this article that says “applicable to all nationalities”.
Rudy Golchha says
Hi Thirumal, I hold Student Visa for Canada. I am planning to take flight from Toronto to Mumbai via the USA. Do I need USA transit visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Rudy! YES, you REQUIRE a US transit visa in order to transit via the US. Your Canada student visa will not work for transiting via the US.
Ivan Haso says
Hi sir, Can I travel to Cuba and Qatar or any Countries in Europian union with my Canadian PR card and I am a holder of Iraqi passport?
Many thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Ivan! Yes, with your Iraqi passport and Canada PR, you can travel to Cuba and Qatar. For the countries in the EU, refer to the countries list in “Europe” that says “applies to all nationalities”.
Effie says
Can I go to Punta Cana with a Canadian Student Visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Effie! Yes, you can travel to the Dominican Republic with your valid Canada student visa. You don’t need a separate visa for the Dominican Republic.
Pushkar Inamdar says
I am currently studying in Singapore on a student visa and I hold an Indian passport. And I want to travel to Italy what should I do?
Can I apply for Italy visa while studying in Singapore or do I have to go back to India to apply and complete the visa procedure?
Thirumal says
Hi Pushkar! You can apply for your Schengen visa from Singapore since you live/study in Singapore. You don’t need to apply from India. Refer to my Schengen visa guide for the procedure.
Salma says
Hi, I hold a valid Canadian tourist visa and I am in Canada at present. That being said, can I visit Mexico without a visa? I hold an Indian passport. Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Salma! Yes, you can visit Mexico with your India passport and Canada visa. You don’t need a separate visa for Mexico.
Gigi says
Hi! I have a Nigerian Passport but I’m a US legal resident, am I able to go to Canada without a visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Gigi! If you hold a US Green card, then YES, you can travel to Canada without a visa. But you must apply for Canada eTA if arriving by air.
Please refer to my Canada visa guide on the procedure to apply for Canada eTA.
Bala says
Hi! This is a very good article. One of my friend, who is a Canadian PR, Indian Passport Holder, wants to travel through HKG. I guess HKG requires no visa, (you have to have an eVisa). Is this correct?
Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Bala! That’s correct! India passport holders need to have just a “Pre-arrival Registration (PAR)” to enter Hong Kong. PAR is an online form and the confirmation is immediate. You can refer to my Hong Kong Visa Guide on the steps to complete PAR.
Khan says
Hi sir! I have Pakistani passport valid Canada and USA visa. So, how many countries can I enter without a visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Khan! Please refer to my VISA-FREE travel with US visa and VISA-FREE travel with Canada visa (this article) articles.
Hafiz Zahid Javaid says
Dear,
I just got my Canada Multiple Visit Visa which will expire in 2026. In the application form, I entered the planned travel date in July 2019 but due to some family issues, I can’t travel in this year. I just want to know that, is there any limitation with the travel dates/period or I can visit any time before the expiry date of my visa?
Thanks & Regards
Thirumal says
Hi Hafiz! It is not mandatory to travel on the dates specified in your application. You can visit Canada anytime till the last day of your visa expiry in 2026.
Linka says
Hi Thirumal!
Your post is so useful, but I just want to make sure to myself: I just got my student visa to Canada and my flight destinations will be Vietnam -> Korea -> Canada.
I have like 11h layover in Incheon Airport Korea, so based on your information, I can legally go outside the airport and get some fresh air without having Korea Visa or any extra papers to be done?
Thank you so much.
Thirumal says
Hi Linka! Yes, that’s correct! Your itinerary and Canada visa makes you eligible to enter Korea without a visa for up to 30 days. Therefore, yes, you can go outside the airport for those 11 hours layover. Enjoy!
Rakesh says
I have multiple-entry visa of Canada. Can I take a flight from Delhi with a stop at New York without US visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Rakesh! Unfortunately, no. To transit through the US, you must have a US visa (B1/B2 or C1/D visa).
Jagdish Singh Grewal says
Hi sir. I’m flying to LA USA from Delhi. I have Canada tourist and USA K visa. I was looking for a Russian airline “AEROFLOT”. So my layover is in Moscow for almost 3 hours so do I need a Russian visa or not? I’m not going outside of the airport.
Thirumal says
Hi Jagdish! You DO NOT need a transit visa. If you are transiting through Moscow and not leaving the airport, you do not need a transit visa. Quite a few of my readers have flown this route (Delhi-LA via Moscow with Aeroflot) and none of them needed a transit visa.
rajiv says
Hi,
I am Indian citizen holding Canada visitor visa expired in 2028. I have a layover at LHR in the UK for 23 hours 50 min while going to canada.
Do I need a transit visa for UK?
Thirumal says
Hi Rajiv! No. You don’t need a transit visa. If you hold a valid Canada visa, you don’t need a transit visa for the UK.
If you want to leave the airport during the layover, you can request a 24-hour entry at the LHR immigration. The entry depends on the discretion of the immigration officers but quite a few of my readers were able to avail it successfully. So, give it a try.
Eli says
Hi, I have an Iranian Passport, and also have Canada Visitor Visa. Can I go to Mexico without any Visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Eli! Yes, you can enter Mexico with your Iranian passport and Canada visitor visa. You don’t need a separate Mexico visa.
Hafiz Zahid Javaid says
Dear,
I am a Pakistani passport holder and just got Canada visit visa (for tourism). I would like to visit the UK as well as a stop over (more than 5 days) so for this case do I need a UK visa?
If yes then what type?
Please note, before one month I applied for UK visa (before Canada visa) but it was refused. Can I apply again now (with Canada visa on my passport) or I need to wait for some time.
Several questions but sorry.
Thanks
Thirumal says
Hi Hafiz! You would need a “UK standard visitor visa” to enter and spend 5 days in the UK.
You can reapply for a UK visa anytime. There is no waiting required. But if you don’t fix the issues from your previous application, your current application will likely be refused again. You must read your refusal letter and fix any issues with your application.
Husnul Amin says
I have a Pakistani Passport with a Canadian 10 Years Visa with Multiple Entries. Can I get a Turkish visa on Arrival at Istanbul Airport? or an E-Visa.
Thirumal says
Hi Husnul! You would need a UK, US or Schengen visa to get a Turkish eVisa. Unfortunately, you cannot use your Canada visa to apply for a Turkish eVisa. You cannot get a Visa on Arrival either.
Megan says
Hello, I’m a Philippine passport holder with a permanent residency card from Canada. I’m planning on going home to the Philippines with a 14hour layover in Korea and on my way back to Canada, I have a 13day layover/stay in Korea. I’ve already asked the Embassy of Korea in Toronto and Manila and they said I don’t need a visa, but I’m trying to look for sources of the visa-free entry to Korea to print off just in case I get questioned by immigration. Would you please link me to Timatic’s info regarding my situation? I can’t seem to find it. Thank you so much.
Thirumal says
Hi Megan! You can print a copy of requirements from TIMATIC and Korea Visa Portal. Details below.
TIMATIC
1. Go to United Airline’s TIMATIC link
2. Input the details and click on “Check”
3. Print the entire page
Korea Visa Portal
1. Go to Korea Visa Portal
2. Change the language to English
3. Click on “Short Term Visit”
4. Select “Tourist/Transit (General) B-2-1”
5. Print the information shown under “Tourists in transit to Third Countries”
Solo says
I hold a Ghanaian passport with a Canadian visa of 5 years. Which countries can I visit?
Thirumal says
Hi Solo! Using your Ghanaian passport and Canada visa, you can travel to all the countries in this article that says “applies to all nationalities”.
Rylan says
Hi Thirumal,
Nice article.
Can one travel to/out of Canada with Student visa? I will be traveling to America on a holiday and would like to enter Canada (for one week) with a student visa. I want to defer my September 2019 admission till next year and also open a student account within that one week.
Then return fully in September 2020 for my studies. I recently obtained a student visa, but I can’t start my studies this year. The school allows deferment of admission by the way.
Thank you.
Rylan
Thirumal says
Hi Rylan! My knowledge and experience are only in tourist visas. I don’t know much about student visas. But I will try to answer your question with the limited knowledge I have in student visas.
Student visas are only valid if you are an active student. If not, then the visa is not valid. You are supposed to defer your admission before you obtained your visa. That way, your visa will be issued for the correct dates. If you need a definitive answer, I suggest asking CIC or the university itself.
Emrann says
Hi Thirimul, thanks for such an informative post! I’m a Pakistani passport holder but has multi-entry 5 years US visa. I’m visiting the US on June 19 so can I visit Puerto Rico as well on the same visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Emrann! Yes, you can visit Puerto Rico with your US visa. Puerto Rico is part of the US and you can enter using your valid US visa.
Igho says
Hi Thirumal,
I am a Nigerian, hold a Nigerian passport, studying in the UK, also hold a valid multiple-entry Canadian visa (Not TRV btw). Will I be allowed entry into Mexico as well as the other countries listed in this post?
Will very much appreciate your response to this post as I’m in an urgent need of the information.
Thank you kindly,
Igho.
Thirumal says
Hi Igho! Yes, you can use your valid Canada multiple-entry visa to enter Mexico. You can also enter other countries listed in this article that says “applies to all nationalities”.
omade okwor says
Hi, Can I go to Mexico with my Canadian student visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Omade! Yes, you can use your Canada student visa to enter Mexico.
Hadi says
Hi,
UK refused my VISA application but they did not stamp my passport. I am applying for a Canadian student VISA and I would like to know that I should mention that the UK has not approved my application while they did not stamp it?
Best,
Hadi
Thirumal says
Hi Hadi! Most countries in the world (including the UK) DO NOT stamp or add a visa sticker to your passport if your visa application is REFUSED. You will only receive a refusal letter mentioning the reasons for your visa refusal.
Yes, you have to disclose your UK visa refusal in your Canada visa application.
Mandeep saini says
Hi there! I have a Canadian tourist visa and I have recently visited for 40 days. Now I’m back in India and I would like to go to the United Kingdom for the cricket World Cup. I have checked on the website it says who have the Canadian tourist visa can go to the UK for only 24-hour time limit. What’s that supposed to mean? Do I have to apply for any other visa for a longer stay than 24 hours? Could you please tell me any other options?
Thirumal says
Hi Mandeep! The 24-hour entry at London’s Heathrow airport is issued only when you are flying to Canada but transiting through London. If your layover is long (say 16 hours), you can request the immigration office to issue you a 24-hour entry. That way, instead of waiting 16 hours at the airport, you can go to London city center for sightseeing, shopping, eating or meeting friends.
Keep in mind that this 24-hour entry is dependent on the discretion of the immigration officers in London’s Heathrow airport. They can deny you the entry if they feel that you are not eligible.
To watch cricket matches in the UK, you must hold a UK visitor visa. You can refer to my UK visa guide for details on visa requirements, fee, processing time, etc
Roohafza Zarabi says
Hi Sir,
I have B1 Visa to travel to Canada and attend a conference. Which countries of the above I can travel as well? I have Afghanistan Passport?
Thirumal says
Hi Roohafza! Are you referring to a US B1 visa or a Canada visa? You cannot enter Canada with a US B1 visa.
Kirti says
Hi Thirumal,
I have a single entry Canadian visa and would like to know, do I need a US transit visa, as the flight I am considering for my visit from Mumbai to Toronto is via Boston. I have a valid B1 visa, will that work or is a transit visa mandatory? I checked with the Airlines and I am advised to check with the US embassy for this. If you could throw some light based on your experience would help.
Thirumal says
Hi Kirti! You can use your valid US B1 visa to transit through the US. No additional transit visa is required for the US.
Tsenguun Enkhbaatar says
Hello!
I have a study permit and temporary resident visa for Canada! Can I travel to the Dominican Republic?
Thanks,
Tsenguun
Thirumal says
Hi Tsenguun! If you hold a valid Canada TRV, you can enter the Dominican Republic without a visa.
David says
Hi Thiru, My question is, I am Indian passport holder and a Canadian PR holder for 7 years. Can I book a flight to Singapore and a different flight from Singapore to India. Can I go out from Singapore airport?
Thirumal says
Hi David! Yes, Singapore grants visa exemption to Indian nationals with Canada visa or PR to leave the airport for up to 96 hours (4 days). You must be traveling to India from a third country or traveling to a third country from India via Singapore.
There have been incidents where the airlines did not allow the passengers to board if they had two separate bookings. It’s because of the airlines staff not knowing the requirements very well. If you hold two different bookings, I suggest carrying a print of the VFTF (Visa Free Transit Facility) requirements from the Singapore ICA (Immigration and Checkpoints Authority) website. If the airline denies boarding saying that you need a Singapore visa, you can show the print of the requirements.
Rajesh says
Hello Sir
I am having an Indian Passport with a Canadian visitor visa. Can I travel visa-free to Egypt?
My flight is Dubai – Cairo – Toronto
Egypt – layover time is 12+
Do I need Dubai Visa also?
Please guide
Thanks
Rajesh
Thirumal says
Hi Rajesh! No. You CANNOT enter Egypt with your Canada visa. You NEED an Egypt tourist visa to travel to Egypt.
Yes, you also need a visa for UAE.
Davi says
Dear sir, I am Vietnamese. I will get my Canada visa (TRV) by next week, planning to visit Canada in July. Can I go to France (Eupore) for 3 days trip then fly to Canada?
Thirumal says
Hi Davi! You CANNOT enter France with your Canada visa. You would need a Schengen visa to travel to France.
SARDAR LAK says
Dear Sir, I hope you are fine. I am having a Canada visa for 2 years and 6 Months. How many countries I can travel without a visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Sardar! There are up to 25 countries you can travel without a visa with your Canada visa. Go through this article for the list of countries for your passport.
Tamanna says
Hi! We are Indian passport holders having Canadian PR. Do we require US Visa to book a flight via the US for traveling to Canada?
Thirumal says
Hi Tamanna! YES, you REQUIRE a US visa to transit through the US. You cannot use your Canada PR to transit through the US.
Ali says
Hi, I have an Iraqi passport and Canada study visa. I want to fly to Canada but my transit is in Washington DC. Do I need a transit visa to America? Or If I would change the transit to Europe, will I need a transit visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Ali! Yes, you would need a transit visa for the US. The US also has travel restrictions on Iraqi passport holders, so please check with the airline for accurate information.
You can transit through Europe if you hold a Canada visa. Check this article on Schengen Visa Info for more information or contact the airline.
Jay says
Hi,
Do you think any problems ??
If I go back to Canada 2 days before my student Visa Expires..?
But I already applied for new Visa already.. it is on processing times.
Thirumal says
Hi Jay! I don’t have expertise in student visas, so I don’t know the entry rules for student visas. But for tourist visas, yes you can enter 2 days before the expiry and can still get an entry for whichever days Canada allows (about 90 days I think).
Myca Campbell says
Nice post. This is very informative. I’m holding a student visa from Canada and I’m a Filipino. And I would like to travel before my visa will expire. Is there any possibility to travel in Mexico?
Thirumal says
Hi Myca! Yes, you can use your Canada student visa to travel to Mexico. Mexico honors all kinds of Canada and US visas.
Stephen Masih says
Hi, I have a student visa in Canada and I want to travel to the Philippines. Can I travel just for 20 days?
Thirumal says
Hi Stephen! The Philippines accepts Canada visas but only for India and China passport holders. If you do not have an India or China passport, you cannot use your Canada visa to enter the Philippines.
Geetika says
Hi
I have a Canada study visa but I had to return to my country India due to personal reasons without completing the course. Can I still visit Canada while the study visa is valid or do I have to apply for a separate tourist visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Geetika! A study visa is only for study. If your purpose of visit in the future is “not to study”, then you must get a tourist visa.
Adedamola Azeez says
Hello. Great post. Thank you for taking your time to reply questions. I hope you answer mine as well.
I have a Nigerian passport. I would like to know which European student visa can be allowed to enter Canada/US with/without visa. Thank you in advance.
Thirumal says
Hi Adedomola! Canada and the US do not honor other country visas. You must hold a Canada visa for Canada and a US visa for the US.
Sandeep says
Hiii Tirumal ji…
Thank You Tirumal Ji for your reply,
I have one more Doubt if you do not hesitate.
My cousin have Georgian(europe) Student visa, can he travel to Canada with Georgian Visa, Or does he need to take Canadian Visa. Plz help, I will visit canada late Aug 2019, will he able to come Canada this May Or June with georgian Visa
Thank You
Thirumal says
Hi Sandeep! No, your cousin cannot use his Georgian student visa to enter Canada. He needs a Canada tourist visa to travel to Canada.
sandeep rao 679 says
Hi! I’m of Indian nationality and I have Canada work visa. Can I go to GEORGIA (EUROPE) for visiting for a week without Georgian tourist visa? If any documents required what are they? if no documents required, can I directly book flight tickets and go Georgia directly? Please help.
Thirumal says
Hi Sandeep! Yes, you can visit Georgia with your India passport and Canada visa. You do not need a separate Georgia visa. All you need is return flight tickets and hotel bookings to show at the port of entry.
Reetika says
Hi,
I am travelling to UK on 6 months VISA and wish to visit canada at the end of my trip, in 4 months time. I dont have much time left to be able to apply VISA from India (10 days left). Please could you advise if there is a chance for me to apply for Canada Visa from London, to be able to travel in last 9 days of my visit. I have business visitor VIsa for UK, and B1/B2 visa for US.
Thirumal says
Hi Reetika! Yes, you can apply for Canada visa from the UK. Biometrics is now mandatory for all nationalities. Therefore, your Canada online visa application will ask for your preferred location for biometrics. You can select your preferred location/city in the UK for your biometrics and passport submission.
Mama says
Hi I have a Canadian work visa with a Nigerian Passport. Can you please email me the list of countries I can enter with a Canadian work visa ?
Thank you
Thirumal says
Hi Mama! With your Nigeria passport and Canada work visa, you can travel VISA-FREE to all the countries listed out in this article that says “applies to all passport holders”.
Jagdish Singh Grewal says
okay sir so i finally bought my ticket of Lufthansa airline from delhi to mexico city so firstly i have my layover at frankfut 5h55mins
And on return i have my layover 6h55 at munich franz josef strauss airport.
So i have canadian TRV visa valid for 10 years nd i have gone once to canada last year..don’t i need a mexican visa for traveling ??? And also transit visa for germany??
Thirumal says
Good! You don’t need a Mexico visa since you have a Canada visa. You can use your Canada visa to enter Mexico.
You don’t need a transit visa for Germany since you have a valid Canada visa. Good luck and enjoy your trip.
Jagdish singh says
It’s literally so meaningful for me. Thanks, sir!
One last thing. I’m still looking for my flight to Mexico but all flights have very long layover time around 20 hours. So I wanna ask, would they let me stay at the airport? I mean transit visa? I’m not going outside of the airport but the layover is around 20 hours in Rome.
So I can choose that flight?
Thirumal says
A layover of up to 8 hours within the same day is considered as an airside transit. But over 8 hours or departure flight on the next day will have different rules. Airside transit areas in some airports are closed after midnight. I suggest checking with the airline or the airport for specific information.
A quick Google search says that for Frankfurt airport it should be less than 12 hours. I couldn’t find exact info for Rome airport.
Deepak says
Hello
You seem to be very knowledgeable.
Iam Indian citizen working in US on EAD/AP( have been in green card line for a while).
I also have a Canadian visitor visa. If I want to got o Costa Rica–Would I need their visa?
Thanks for your reply.
Thirumal says
Hi Deepak! You can use your US EAD or Canada visa to travel to Costa Rica. You don’t need to secure a separate visa for Costa Rica.
I have traveled to Costa Rica myself once on US H1B visa and once on Canada visa. At the immigration in Costa Rica, you just present your passport and tell which visa you’ll be using. Probably Canada visa is better in your case as your US EAD will not be in the passport. Good luck and have a great time in Costa Rica!
Jay says
Hi, I’m a Thai citizen. And I hold a Canadian study permit visa. Can I travel to Mexico?
Thirumal says
Hi Jay! Yes, you can use your Canadian student visa to travel to Mexico.
Lee says
Hey
I have a Chinese passport with a Canadian student visa. Can I go to Cancun, Mexico?
Thirumal says
Hi Lee! Yes, you can use your Canadian student visa to travel to Mexico.
Emy says
Hi, I have a Sri Lankan passport and Canadian student visa. Can I go to Mexico without a visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Emy! Yes, you can use your Sri Lankan passport and Canadian student visa to enter Mexico. You don’t need a separate Mexico visa.
Jagdish singh says
I have a flight from Delhi to Mexico, but my layover at Frankfurt airport in Germany is 4 hours. I’m not going outside the airport so do I need a transit visa? If yes, then can I get at the Frankfurt airport or do I need to get it from India?
Thirumal says
No, you don’t need a transit visa for Germany since you are holding a Canada visa already.
Jagdish singh says
Sir, I have a Canadian TRV visa valid for 10 years. So my question is do I need a transit visa of Germany, Paris or Italy while I’m traveling to Mexico from India??
Thirumal says
Hi Jagdish! No, you don’t need a transit visa for Germany, France or Italy.
EXPLANATION: India passport holders DO NOT REQUIRE a transit visa for France and Italy. India passport holders DO REQUIRE a transit visa for Germany but are EXEMPTED if holding a US/Canada visa.
Jagdish Singh Grewal says
Thank you, sir! As you said we don’t need to get a Mexican visa for traveling while I have Canadian TRV visa valid for 10 years. So my question is do I need any Mexican visa stamp on my passport and how Delhi immigration would know I’m traveling to Mexico because I have just a Canadian visa on my passport.
Thirumal says
The immigration officers at Delhi will know that you are going to Mexico by looking at your flight boarding pass. If you have a layover in Frankfurt, then you will have 2 boarding passes. One Delhi-Frankfurt and another Frankfurt-Mexico city. You have to present both of those boarding passes at the passport control in Delhi airport. They will ask you why are you going to Mexico and what is your purpose.
If they ask whether you have a Mexico visa, you can tell them that you don’t need a separate Mexico visa since you already have a Canada TRV.
Jagdish Singh Grewal says
Do we need visa of ecuador for traveling or evisa??
Thirumal says
India passport holders do not need a visa for Ecuador.
ALAM says
Hi,
I have a Bangladesh Passport and i currently hold a valid Canadian Student Visa. I have a flight from Vancouver to Heathrow to Brussels to Entebbe. My layover at Heathrow airport is 19hours. So do I need any visa to get out of the airport and meet family and tour UK in the 19hours that i have?
Kind Regards.
Thirumal says
Hi Alam! YES, you REQUIRE a UK tourist visa to leave the Heathrow airport in order to meet friends or tour London.
That being said, with your Canadian visa, you can request a 24-hour visa/entry at Heathrow airport. All my readers who tried have been issued the 24-hour visa/entry at London’s Heathrow airport without any issues.
Remember that the issuance of this 24-hour visa/entry is completely dependent on the discretion of the immigration officers at Heathrow airport. There is no harm in trying. You may also be denied. So be prepared for both scenarios. If you were given entry, then meet your friends or tour London. If not, be prepared to spend those 19 hours in the airport itself.
ALAM says
Hi, Thanks for your reply. Just to be on the safe side, which type of visa should i apply for to get out of the Heathrow airport to tour UK? Is it the Visitor in Transit visa or some other visa? Keeping in mind that i have only 19hrs only.
Thirumal says
If you want to leave the airport, then you would need a proper “Tourist” visa. “Visitor in Transit” visa is only if you have to go through the immigration in order to transit, but I’m not sure if you can leave the airport on that visa.
Vasanth says
Hi Thirumal, My mother has come to Canada using Visitor visa, it is getting expired in couple of months. I’m not in a situation to take her India back soon.
Is it advisable to visit Mexico and re-enter Canada to obtain another six months of visa extension?
Thirumal says
Hi Vasanth! There is a proper way to extend one’s stay in Canada. But it would cost a bit and takes about 30-50 days. I believe the extension is for 2 months max. I suggest exploring this option as well.
Leaving and re-entering can be tricky. Sometimes it’s overlooked as a genuine side trip. But sometimes you may be questioned.
Blue says
Hi Thirumal,
I want to travel in Central America, I have my PR card and my Philippine passport has a US visa in it, do I still need to get visa for the country I want to travel? I’m so confused.
Thanks!
Thirumal says
Hi Blue! You can “probably” use your US visa to enter Guatemala and other Central American countries. Lack of official websites and documents from these countries make it harder to research or confirm visa requirements.
But, according to TIMATIC, Philippines passport holders with a visa from Canada, US or Schengen can enter Guatemala for 90 days. Therefore, the airlines will not object you from boarding the flight to Guatemala. Guatemala is not too strict with their visa requirements. Once you land there, they will most probably grant you entry. From there, you can enter the other Central American countries by land.
Blue says
Oh nice…
This means a lot.
Thank you Thirumal!
Forough says
Hi,
I am from Iran and have Canada visitor visa..
Would you please advise me if I can enter UK with CA visitor visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Forough! If you traveling to Canada via the UK, then yes, you can enter the UK for up to 24 hours using your CA visitor visa. The entry will be granted for 24 hours only. You must have the boarding pass to your flight to Canada within 24 hours. This provision is available only at London’s Heathrow airport. The issuance of the entry depends on the discretion of the immigration officers at Heathrow airport.
If you would need to travel to the UK directly or stay in the UK for more than 24 hours, then you would need to secure a UK visa.
Basil says
Hi,
My parents have Canadian PR Card with Pakistani passport. I live in UK. Do my parents need UK visa to visit me in UK or would they benefit from same on arrival 90 day visa as applicable on Canadian citizens.
Thirumal says
Hi Basil! Your parents would still REQUIRE a UK visa to visit you. Canadain PR holders are required to obtain a UK visa prior to their arrival in the UK
Note: With their Canada PR, your parents may request for a 24 hr entry at London’s Heathrow airport if en route Canada via the UK. Granting of 24 hours entry in London depends on the discretion of the immigration officers in Heathrow airport.
Sameer says
Dear Sir,
I am an Indian citizen and I have a Canadian TRV visa for 10 years. Can you please list countries where I can travel absolutely without Visa.
Best regards.
Thirumal says
All the countries mentioned in this article EXEMPT visa for Canadian TRV holders, except Qatar, Oman and Taiwan. You would need to apply for eTA for Qatar and Taiwan and eVisa for Oman.
Applying for eTA (Qatar and Taiwan) is quite simple and the approval is immediate. You just have to enter your flight details, hotel details and your Canada visa details.
Leili says
Dear Manish,,
Could you please tell me if I have a Canadian PR am I eligible for the travel to US without any American visa?
Thank you,
Thirumal says
Hi Leili! Unfortunately, the answer is “no”. You would still need a US visa to visit the US. Only, Canada passport holders are visa exempt for the US.
Manish says
Sir, I am having a Canada visa for 10 years. How many countries I can travel without a visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Manish! You can travel to most of the countries listed in this article. If you let me know your passport, I can provide you with the exact list.
c.a.r.l says
hello i have an Haitian pasport but i have the canadian Visa how many countries i can travel?
Thirumal says
Hi Carl! You can travel to all the countries listed in this article that says “applies to all passport holders” or “Haiti”.
Souffrant jeanet Carly says
Why Haiti is not in this list?
Thirumal says
Hi Souffrant! I skipped Haiti as the VISA-FREE travel applies to only Colombia, Dominican Republic and Panama passport holders. I don’t have many readers from these 3 countries so it wouldn’t be of much use anyway. Are you from any of these 3 countries?
john says
I am a Nigerian and I have a Canadian student visa. What is the list of countries I am allowed to travel visa-free?
Thirumal says
Hi John! You can travel to all the countries mentioned in this article that says “applies to all nationalities”.
Azhar says
I have a Canadian student visa. Can I travel to any country using my student visa? Btw I’m from India.
Thirumal says
Hi Azhar! Most countries in this list accept Canadian student visas. Do you know which country you are planning to travel? I can give you specific information for that country.
Azhar Mushtaq Rather says
I want to go o cuba, give me details what ineed
Thirumal says
Hi Azhar! If you hold a valid Canada visa, you can enter Cuba with just a Tourist Card. You can obtain a tourist card from any Cuban consulate or airline.
May says
Can i travel to Qatar with SW1 Canada Visa? and come back after a week?
Thirumal says
Hi May! You would need Canada “visitor” visa in order to obtain eTA for Qatar. You CANNOT use your Canada student visa.
That beig said, only a handful of countries require eTA as Qatar exempts or offers VOA for many nationalities. Check if your passport is exempted from visa here
May says
HiThirumal,
By the i hold Philippine passport… so meaning, i need to obtain a visit visa or tourist visa to Qatar? Can i come back from Qatar to Canada after?
Virge says
Good evening I’m a filipino, recently studying here in south korea. I wanna travel in vancouver for just 5 days.. is it possible for me to travel to canada directly here from korea without getting visa from Philippines? Thank you
Thirumal says
Hi Virge! Unfortunately, Filipino passport holders REQUIRE a visa for Canada. You cannot use your South Korea study visa to enter Canada. You need a Canada tourist visa.
Saiful says
Hi Thirumal, thank you very much for your important information sharing since long. Brother, my family mean wife and only son holding US B1/B2 Visa and Canada TRV visa. We are Bangladesh Citizen. Which countries actually we can travel without any hassle. One of my friend traveled to Mexico advantage of B1/B2 Visa. He experienced bad at the immigration he said. What your advise for please share?
Thirumal says
Hi Saiful! You can travel to all the countries in this article that says “applicable to all nationalities” or “Bangladesh”. For B1/B2, refer to my article on VISA-FREE travel with US visa.
Many Bangladeshi readers have traveled to Mexico and many other countries in this list using US or Canada visas. None of them had any issues. But keep in mind that a visa will only let you “seek permission to enter”. But your eligibility to enter will be determined at the first point of entry. At the point of entry, you will be asked whether it’s your first time, your purpose of travel, how many days, whether you have a return ticket, etc. If you fail to answer any of those questions, you may be questioned further or refused entry.
Mohit Tater says
Great post again Thirumal. I hold a US B1/B2 visa as well as a Canadian PR. Are there any countries which I can access with my Canadian PR that are not accessible by just a US B1/B2 visa?
Thirumal says
Unfortunately, the answer is no. You can access all countries with your US B1/B2 that you can access with your Canadian PR.
SHAMSHER Singh says
Hi sir, I like to know I have a UK visa and Canada visa and I want to go to South Korea. I can go there without a visa or I need South Korea visa?
Thirumal says
Hi Shamsher! Yes, but you must be in transit (a) to reach the UK or Canada as your final destination or (b) to reach your home country as the final destination from the UK or Canada.