Canada
Canada visa — Togo passport
Visa required
This information applies to a short tourist stay with an ordinary passport. To work, study or stay longer, the rules are different.
Good to know
Visitor visa (temporary resident visa) required. IRCC list "What you need to enter Canada", amended on 31/07/2026.
Official source: IRCC (Canada.ca) — What you need to enter Canada: entry requirements by country or territoryIRCC (Canada.ca) — What you need to enter Canada : exigences d’entrée par pays ou territoire (new tab) Verified on 13 October 2026
VisaGuideline helps you prepare your application. The decision belongs to the country’s authority: check the official page before paying or applying.
Which procedure for your trip?
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Visitor visa
Visitor visa: documents, fees and steps -
Student visa
Student visa: documents, fees and steps -
Work visa
Work visa: documents, fees and steps
Document names stay visible. Open the details to read the conditions.
Documents requested
Visitor visa
Digital copy of the valid passport or travel documentConditions and details
Document required from all applicants: a clear, colour copy of the passport or travel document used to come to Canada, with the page showing the date of birth and the country or territory of origin, and all pages bearing stamps, visas or annotations. The page recommends a passport valid for at least 6 months from the planned date of travel and recommends renewing it before the application if necessary. A travel document must be issued by a government and indicate name, date of birth, number, citizenship or residence status, photograph and expiry date where applicable.Visitor visa application completed online in the IRCC portalConditions and details
The page requires online submission ("You must apply online"). Paper submission is possible only if the applicant cannot apply online (including because of a disability) or travels with an identity or travel document issued to a refugee, a stateless person or a non-citizen. A scanner or camera is required for the electronic copies, and the instruction guide must be read before completing the application.Documents from the personalised list provided by the portalConditions and details
When applying online, the portal produces a personalised list of documents; the page asks for all the documents listed in it to be provided. Its content depends on the situation and is not reproduced here.
Depending on your situation
Biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) provided in personConditions and details
Unless an exemption applies, an application for temporary residence requires fingerprints and a photograph (US nationals are exempt). Exemptions cited by the page: notably applicants over 79 years of age, children under 14 years of age, and visitor visa applicants who have already provided their data for a permanent residence application that is being processed.Letter authorizing a minor child to travel to Canada, if applicableConditions and details
Requested "if applicable" when a child under 18 years of age is concerned; other documents may be required depending on whether or not the child travels alone (see the "Accompanied minors" recommendation). The questionnaire does not contain a field on accompanied children: the condition is not automated.Additional documents required by the visa office of the country of submissionConditions and details
The visa office may require additional documents depending on the country or territory from which the application is made; the page displays them after that country has been selected. They have not been read here.- "Use of a representative" form (IMM 5476), if an authorized representative is usedDocument listed among those that the portal list may include, only if the applicant uses an authorized representative (see the "Authorized representative" recommendation).
- Form IMM 5475 authorizing the disclosure of information to a designated person, if applicableOnly if the applicant authorises the disclosure of information from their file to a person other than themselves.
- Medical examination, if IRCC requests itAfter submission, IRCC may request a medical examination and then indicates the procedure to follow.
- Police certificate, if IRCC requests itAfter submission, IRCC may request a police certificate, an interview or additional information.
Letter of invitation, if a person or a business in Canada has invited the travellerConditions and details
The page states that a letter of invitation from a person living in Canada may be required, without specifying in which cases for a tourist. The questionnaire does not allow the condition to be automated.
Student visa
Copy of the information page of a valid passport or travel documentConditions and details
Proof of identity requires, for the applicant and for each accompanying family member, a copy of a valid passport or travel document, uploaded with the online application; if the application is approved, you must then send the original passport to IRCC. A United States citizen has several options for proving their identity. A United States permanent resident travels with their green card (or equivalent official proof of their status) and a valid passport from their country of nationality.Two recent passport-format photos, with the name and date of birth written on the back of eachConditions and details
For proof of identity, IRCC also requires two recent passport-format photos for the applicant and for each accompanying family member; the person's name and date of birth are written on the back of each photo.Proof of sufficient funds for tuition fees, living expenses and round-trip transportation, for yourself and accompanying family membersConditions and details
Without working in Canada, you must prove that you have the money needed for the first year of studies and, for a program of more than one year, indicate how you will pay for the entire duration of studies (for example a scholarship of more than one year or the parents' employment). IRCC cites, without a complete list, examples of proof: receipt of payment for the first year of tuition and housing, bank student loan, proof of scholarship, pay stubs, letter from the person providing support with proof of their relationship and the amount, Canadian bank account, guaranteed investment certificate, bank statements for the last 6 months showing the origin of the funds. For first-year living expenses (excluding tuition and transportation), the amounts for an application submitted from September 1, 2026, outside Quebec, are CAD 23 448 for one person, CAD 29 192 for two, CAD 35 888 for three, CAD 43 572 for four, CAD 49 419 for five, CAD 55 736 for six, CAD 62 054 for seven, then CAD 6 318 per additional person. For Quebec, the amounts are those of the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration. If the country applies exchange controls, you must prove that you will be able to export the funds.Documents from the personalized list provided by the IRCC portal after the questionnaireConditions and details
Before uploading the forms, the applicant answers a few questions; IRCC then creates a personalized document list. You must provide all the documents listed there and submit a complete application: IRCC cannot finalize the permit without it, and documents sent later delay processing.
Depending on your situation
Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI), unless an exemption applies, to be uploaded in the space providedConditions and details
The institution issues the letter of acceptance. It is always required, except for a family member of a person whose study permit or work permit application was approved in writing before arrival in Canada. For post-secondary studies, IRCC asks the institution to confirm that the letter is valid: if it does not respond before the deadline, the application is returned and the processing fees are refunded. You must therefore confirm with the institution that it will validate the letter before resubmitting the application. The letter is attached only in the space provided for this purpose: any other document placed there is shared with the institution, with the applicant's consent.Provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL), provided by the institution in most casesConditions and details
The PAL/TAL is a letter from the province or territory where you intend to study: it confirms that a place has been allocated to the applicant. It is required in most cases. IRCC lists exceptions (for example preschool, primary, secondary, master's or doctoral degree-leading programs at a public designated learning institution from January 1, 2026, exchanges with no tuition fees, Global Affairs Canada scholarships); in that case you must provide proof of this with the application. You request it from the institution, usually after accepting the offer and paying tuition fees in whole or in part. It is tied to the institution and must be valid at the time the application is submitted, not at the start of studies: issued in 2026, it is valid until December 31, 2026, unless an earlier expiry date is written on the letter. An expired PAL/TAL cannot be used; after an approved or refused application, or in the event of a change of institution, you must obtain a new one before resubmitting.Attestation of issuance of the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ), to study in QuebecConditions and details
To study at an institution in Quebec, you need the attestation of issuance of the CAQ, issued by the Government of Quebec, instead of the PAL/TAL; you must ask the institution how to obtain it. Almost all students who want to study in Quebec must have one. The CAQ must be valid when IRCC receives the application and must include the statement indicating that the applicant has a place in Quebec's quota or is exempt from it. The same valid CAQ can be used to resubmit an application, except in the event of a change in level of study. If you change institution, it can be reused only if it was issued before December 6, 2024 and the level of study remains the same, or for a minor child in primary or secondary school whose CAQ is not tied to a specific institution. To obtain it, you must prove that you can cover the costs set by the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration.Immigration medical examination with a designated physician, if IRCC requires itConditions and details
A medical examination is to be expected if you plan to stay more than 6 months and you have lived or travelled for 6 consecutive months or more, in the year before arrival, in certain countries or territories, or if you want to work in a job where public health must be protected. For a stay of 6 months or less, it is generally required only for those jobs. It is done with a physician from the list of designated physicians, not with your own physician, preferably before the application (upfront examination). The fees are paid at the appointment and are not refunded if the application is refused. The results are valid for 12 months from the examination and must be valid on the day of entry to Canada.- Police certificate, if IRCC requests itIn some cases, IRCC requests a police certificate; it is better to request it as early as possible. The student must obey the law and have no criminal record.
Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) given in person after the application is submittedConditions and details
IRCC collects biometrics for most applications; from 14 to 79 years of age, you generally must provide them. United States nationals are exempt from them for a temporary residence application, as are other persons, for example applicants over 79 years of age and children under 14 years of age. The fees are paid at the same time as the application, failing which processing may be delayed. You must provide the biometrics within 30 days of the date of the biometric instruction letter. They are given only once every 10 years to facilitate repeated travel.Proof of immigration status in the country of submission, if the applicant is not in their country of originConditions and details
When you are not in your country of origin, you may need to prove your immigration status in the country from which you are submitting the application. If the government that issued the passport or travel document requires a re-entry permit, you must obtain it before applying for a Canadian visa.Documents specific to the visa office of the country of submission, displayed by selecting the country on the application pageConditions and details
Depending on the country or territory from which you submit the application, the local visa office may require additional documents. They are displayed on the "How to apply" page: select "Outside Canada", then "Apply online", then your country or territory from the list.Port of entry introduction letter after approval of an application made outside Canada, to be presented on arrivalConditions and details
If the application is made from outside Canada and approved, IRCC sends a port of entry introduction letter indicating that you are authorized to study in Canada. It does not take the place of a study permit: you must bring it and show it to the border services officer on arrival. It bears the permit reference number, which is used to issue it. For an eligible application submitted from Canada, IRCC sends the permit by mail to the Canadian address provided.Visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA), issued upon approval of the study application if necessaryConditions and details
When an eTA or a visitor visa is necessary, IRCC issues it automatically upon approval of the study permit application: there is no separate application and no additional fees. The eTA is tied to the passport used for the application and is valid for 5 years or until the passport expires if that occurs earlier: you must travel with that passport. The visa is placed in the passport and indicates whether you may enter once or multiple times; you must enter Canada before it expires.
Work visa
Form IMM 1295 for a work permit application made from outside CanadaConditions and details
All applicants for a permit from outside Canada attach form IMM 1295. IRCC provides a guide to complete it. For an online application, the portal produces a personalized document checklist to be followed; certain situations provided for by IRCC allow a paper application.- Photocopy of a valid (unexpired) passport or travel documentAll applicants attach a photocopy of their valid passport or travel document. On arrival in Canada, the passport must remain valid longer than the intended duration of stay.
- A photo that meets visa photo specificationsAll applicants include a photo that meets IRCC specifications for visa photos.
Documents from the personalized list provided by the IRCC portalConditions and details
By answering the portal questionnaire, the applicant obtains a personalized document list: all documents listed there must be provided. An incomplete application may be refused without processing.Proof of sufficient funds to support oneself and one’s family during the stay and for the returnConditions and details
To apply for a work permit from outside Canada, one must show that one has enough money to take care of oneself and one’s family during the stay and to return. The amount depends on the size of the family, the community where one settles and the permit program; IRCC refers to the low income cut-offs, given as a general reference (2023 data), to estimate a minimum.Port of Entry introduction letter given by IRCC after approval, to be presented on arrivalConditions and details
If the application is approved, IRCC sends a letter stating that one is authorized to work in Canada: the port of entry introduction letter. It is not the work permit. One must bring it, on paper or in electronic version, and present it at the port of entry; the permit is issued only on arrival in Canada. It is received if one submitted the application online or provided an email address in the form.
Depending on your situation
For an employer-specific permit: job offer from an eligible Canadian employerConditions and details
To apply for an employer-specific work permit, a job offer from an employer that is not on the list of non-compliant employers is required. The application may be refused if one plans to work for an employer listed as ineligible or for an employer that typically offers striptease, erotic dance, escort or erotic massage services, or if the job offer is not genuine. If a permit is required and one does not yet have it, it is not legal to work in Canada or to state that one is authorized to work there. A job offer is not required for an open work permit, which is reserved for eligible persons.For an employer-specific permit: employment contract provided by the employerConditions and details
For an employer-specific work permit, whether the job requires an LMIA or is exempt from one, the employer provides the employment contract to be included with the application. If an open work permit applicant is asked to provide employment documents, IRCC asks to upload a document bearing “Not applicable”.Copy of the positive LMIA (decision letter with Annex A) and the LMIA file number, provided by the employer, if the job requires an LMIAConditions and details
A positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), sometimes called a confirmation letter, shows that a foreign worker is needed to fill the job and that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available. If the LMIA is required, the employer gives the worker a copy of the decision letter, its Annex A (job details) and the file number; the worker then submits their permit application. Some jobs are exempt from it.Job offer letter specifying pay, deductions, duties and working conditions, if the job requires an LMIAConditions and details
For a job that requires an LMIA, the employer also provides a job offer letter, usually less detailed than a contract. It states the pay and deductions, the duties and the employment conditions, for example working hours.Job offer number (letter A followed by 7 digits), obtained by the employer in the employer portal, if the job is exempt from an LMIAConditions and details
For a job exempt from an LMIA, the employer submits the job offer in IRCC’s employer portal, which generates the job offer number required for the permit application. This number is used only once: the employer provides a new one for any subsequent application. Some exempt employers, such as foreign missions or international organizations, do not have to submit a job offer and therefore do not provide a number.Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ), for paid employment of more than 30 days in Québec when the job requires an LMIAConditions and details
When the job requires an LMIA and the worker plans to hold paid employment in Québec for more than 30 days, the employer obtains a CAQ from the Québec Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration and gives a copy to the worker, who includes it with the application along with the positive LMIA decision letter. A worker hired without an LMIA, under the International Mobility Program, does not need a CAQ.- For an employer-specific permit: letter from the current employer and references from former employersFor an employer-specific work permit, IRCC always asks for a letter from the applicant’s current employer and a reference letter from former employers.
For an employer-specific permit: work experience and proof that you meet the job requirementsConditions and details
For an employer-specific permit, IRCC asks for proof of past experience, for example pay stubs, and proof that you meet the job requirements, including the licence or certification if the trade is regulated. If the job requires neither a licence nor certification, upload a sheet bearing “Not applicable” in the corresponding location. For an open permit, if employment documents are requested, upload a document bearing “Not applicable”.- For an employer-specific permit: curriculum vitaeIRCC always asks for a curriculum vitae with an employer-specific work permit application.
Immigration medical examination with a designated physician, if IRCC requires itConditions and details
IRCC may request a medical examination depending on the type of work and the country of residence. For a stay of more than 6 months, it is required in particular if one has lived or travelled for 6 consecutive months or more in certain countries in the year before arrival, or if one will work in a job where public health must be protected; for a stay of 6 months or less, it is generally required only for those jobs. It is done by a doctor from the list of designated doctors, preferably before the application; if proof of it is brought to the border, the permit does not include a medical condition. The results must be valid on the day of entry to Canada.- Police certificate, if IRCC requests itThe application may be refused if the applicant has a history of criminal activity; IRCC may then request a police certificate.
Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) given in person after submitting the application, if applicableConditions and details
After submitting, one must wait for the biometrics instruction letter, then make an appointment as soon as possible to avoid delays. United States nationals are exempt from it for a temporary residence application, as are other persons, for example applicants over 79 years of age and children under 14 years of age. They may need to be given again even if they are still valid, for example if they expire soon: IRCC cannot issue a work permit longer than the validity of the biometrics.- Certified translations of documents that are neither in English nor in FrenchThe document list may include certified translations when the documents are not written in English or French.
Proof of current immigration status in the country of submission, if the applicant is not a citizen of itConditions and details
An applicant who is not a citizen of the country or territory from which they are submitting their application must send proof of their current immigration status in that country or territory.Family Information form (IMM 5707), marriage certificate or common-law union declaration (IMM 5409), depending on the situationConditions and details
The document list may include the IMM 5707 Family Information form, a marriage certificate or the solemn declaration of common-law union (IMM 5409). The spouse, common-law partner and dependent children may be authorized to visit, study or work in Canada with the worker; IRCC suggests checking whether they need a visa or an eTA, a study permit or an open work permit.Forms IMM 5476 (use of a representative) and IMM 5475 (authorization to disclose information), if applicableConditions and details
Form IMM 5476 is added only if the applicant uses an authorized representative. Form IMM 5475 is added only if the applicant authorizes the disclosure of information from their file to a person other than themselves.Documents specific to the visa office of the country of submission, displayed by indicating the country from which one is submitting the applicationConditions and details
Depending on the country or territory from which one is submitting the application, the local visa office may require additional documents; the application page displays them after the country is selected, and some offices do not require any.Valid visitor visa, if a visa is required to travel to CanadaConditions and details
Even when the work permit is approved, the worker who requires a visitor visa to travel must have it with them on arrival. A work permit exemption does not exempt from the visitor visa or, depending on nationality, from the electronic travel authorization.
Official fees
Visitor visa
- Visitor visa processing fee, per person 100 CAD
- Visitor visa processing fee, family of 5 persons or more (total) 500 CAD
- Biometrics fee, per person 85 CAD
- Biometrics fee, family applying at the same time (total cap) 170 CAD
Student visa
- Study permit application, processing fee 150 CAD
- Biometrics fee, per person 85 CAD
- Biometrics fee, family submitting at the same time (total cap) 170 CAD
Work visa
- Processing of the work permit application, for all applicants (unless exempt) 155 CAD
- Biometrics fee, per person 85 CAD
- Biometrics fee, family submitting at the same time (total cap) 170 CAD
- Additional open work permit holder fee, if applicable and unless exempt 100 CAD
Steps
Visitor visa
- Verify that a visitor visa (and not an eTA) is required: this depends on the travel document, the country that issued it, the nationality and the mode of transport.
- Gather the documents required of everyone (copy of the passport, letter for a minor where applicable) and check the requirements of the visa office of the country of submission.
- Choose the reason « To visit as a tourist » and gather the other possible documents (any forms, recommended documents).
- Pay the fees at the end of the online application by credit or debit card, in principle with the biometrics fees.
- Submit the application in the IRCC portal (current version or new version).
- Wait for the biometric instruction letter (BIL), make an appointment without delay and give fingerprints and photo in person, with the BIL and the passport.
- Respond to any IRCC requests: interview, additional information, medical examination or police certificate.
- If an online application is approved, follow the letter received in the IRCC account to submit the passport, in which the visa is affixed.
- On arrival, submit to the identity check and convince the border officer, who sets the duration of stay (normally up to 6 months).
Student visa
- Choose a program at a designated learning institution (DLI) and obtain the letter of acceptance unless exempt; the institution validates it for post-secondary studies.
- Obtain the PAL/TAL if required, or the CAQ attestation for Quebec; check exemptions and include proof of the applicable exception.
- Gather the other documents: passport, two photos, proof of funds, recommended letter of explanation, and, if required, medical examination and police certificate.
- Submit the application online in the IRCC account: answer the questionnaire to obtain the personalized document checklist, then upload the documents.
- Pay the applicable fees at the end of the online application by credit or debit card: permit processing and biometrics if required, subject to exemptions.
- Provide fingerprints and photo upon receipt of the biometric instruction letter, within 30 days of the date of the letter.
- Respond to IRCC requests during processing: interview, missing information or documents, medical examination, police certificate.
- If the application is approved from abroad: receive the letter of introduction for the point of entry, with the eTA or visitor visa if necessary; the permit is not yet issued.
- Prepare for arrival: passport, letter of introduction, copy of the letter of acceptance, sufficient funds, valid medical examination results if one took place.
- On arrival, respond to the border services officer, who verifies identity and eligibility; the study permit is issued at the point of entry.
- During studies, follow the permit conditions and applicable exemptions: enrolment, progress, extension before expiry and departure when the permit expires.
Work visa
- Determine the applicable type of permit. For an employer-specific permit, obtain a job offer from an eligible employer; an open permit requires particular eligibility.
- For an employer-specific permit, the employer determines whether the job requires an LMIA or is exempt from it and whether the worker needs a permit.
- If an LMIA is required, the employer applies for it from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), which processes the application and issues the decision letter.
- For an employer-specific permit, gather the contract and the documents corresponding to the LMIA or its exemption. For an open permit, follow the instructions of the personalized list.
- Gather form IMM 1295, the passport, the photo and proof of funds; add the employment supporting documents and the curriculum vitae when the type of permit requires them.
- Open one's IRCC account, answer the questionnaire to obtain the personalized document list and upload the documents.
- Pay the fees at the end of the application by credit or debit card, then submit a complete application.
- Provide one's biometrics after receiving the instruction letter, if they are requested.
- Respond to IRCC requests: interview, medical examination or additional documents. For an employer-specific permit, the officer also checks that the employer is allowed to hire.
- If the application is approved, receive the letter of introduction for the port of entry; the work permit is only issued on arrival in Canada.
- Travel with your passport, visitor visa if needed, letter of introduction and applicable supporting documents: employment, LMIA, CAQ or offer of employment number, depending on the pathway.
- On arrival, tell the border services officer that one is coming to work: they verify eligibility, then print the work permit.
Where to apply
Visitor visa
- IRCC portal ("IRCC Portal", option 1 of 2) for the online application.
- New version of the IRCC portal (option 2 of 2): 18 years or older, application alone, first application with IRCC, without a representative.
- Paper application, only if applying online is impossible (including disability) or with a document issued to a refugee, a stateless person or a non-citizen.
- Official biometric collection site by appointment: visa application reception centre, Service Canada (in Canada) or Application Support Center (in the United States).
Student visa
- IRCC account and online portal to submit the study permit application, from outside or inside Canada
- Paper application, only in case of a disability preventing the online application or with an identity or travel document of a non-national resident, refugee or stateless person
- Designated learning institution and province or territory: letter of acceptance and PAL/TAL; government of Quebec for the CAQ
- Physician appearing on the list of designated physicians (panel physicians), for the immigration medical examination, preferably before the application
- Biometrics collection point indicated by IRCC, by appointment after receiving the instruction letter
- Canada Border Services Agency officer at a point of entry: control on arrival and issuance of the study permit
Work visa
- IRCC account and online portal to submit the work permit application from outside Canada
- Paper application, only in case of disability, for the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, or with an identity or travel document of a non-national resident, refugee or stateless person
- ESDC online LMIA portal (Job Bank account required), through which the employer applies for the LMIA
- IRCC employer portal, through which the employer of an LMIA-exempt job submits the job offer and obtains the job offer number
- Biometrics collection point indicated by IRCC, by appointment after receiving the instruction letter
- Canada Border Services Agency officer at a port of entry: inspection on arrival and printing of the work permit
Good to know
Visitor visa
Travel history: copies of old passports or visas, entry and exit stampsConditions and details
Recommended document: a clear copy of one or more of the old passports or visas used in the last 10 years to travel outside the country, entry and exit stamps, study or work permits showing the time spent outside the country, expired or valid visas.Itinerary: flight details, proof of accommodation or event registrationConditions and details
Recommended document showing the planned duration of the stay and the activities in Canada: copies of one of the following, flight details, proof of accommodation, event registration.Bank statements covering at least 6 monthsConditions and details
Recommended document to show sufficient means during the stay: the name and contact details of the bank, the name and address of the account holder proving that the account is theirs, and at least 6 months of transactions with the balances (see also the "Basic conditions" recommendation).Basic conditionsConditions and details
The applicant must have a valid travel document, be in good health, have no criminal or immigration-related conviction, convince the officer of their ties (employment, housing, property, family) and of their departure at the end of the visit, and have sufficient funds; the amount depends on the duration and the type of accommodation.- InadmissibilityCertain people are inadmissible (criminal activities, human rights violations, organized crime, or security, health or financial grounds).
Visa validityConditions and details
The visa officer decides on a single- or multiple-entry visa and on its validity: 10 years at most, or until the expiry of the passport or biometric data if that occurs earlier. The validity of the visa is not the duration of stay.Duration of stay set at the borderConditions and details
The border services officer may grant less or more than 6 months; they then write the departure date in the passport or hand over a visitor record. Without a stamp, the stay runs 6 months from entry, or until the expiry of the passport or biometric data if that occurs earlier.- ExtensionTo stay beyond the authorized duration, the extension application must be made at least 30 days before the end of the authorized stay.
The visa does not guarantee entryConditions and details
A valid visa and travel document do not guarantee entry: the officer must be satisfied of admissibility and of departure at the end of the stay. False or incomplete information leads to a refusal of entry.Processing times and incomplete applicationConditions and details
Processing time depends on the visa office and on any additional steps. An incomplete application may be refused. If an application submitted online is refused, the reasoned decision arrives in the IRCC account.- Validity of biometric dataA temporary resident applicant provides their biometric data only once every 10 years; no visa may be issued more than 10 years after the collection of the data.
- Authorized representativeA consultant, lawyer or notary in Quebec consulted for the application must be authorized to represent or advise; the page offers to verify this.
Accompanied minorsConditions and details
A child under 18 years of age is a minor in Canada. Depending on whether they travel alone, with only one parent or with another adult, they notably need their passport, a copy of the birth certificate and a signed authorization letter, preferably in English or French.Legal basis of the durationConditions and details
The Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations set the authorized period of stay of a temporary resident at six months or at any other period fixed by an officer, starting from the day of entry.
Student visa
- Letter of explanation: why study in Canada and understanding of the responsibilities of an international studentIRCC recommends attaching a letter explaining why you want to study in Canada and that you understand your responsibilities as an international student in Canada.
Program of six months or less: no study permitConditions and details
A program of 6 months or less can be taken without a study permit. A worker holding a valid work permit may study for up to 6 months or until their permit expires, whichever comes first. The study permit exemption does not authorize work: an applicable work authorization is required. Other exceptions depend on the personal situation and are listed on the IRCC page. This list is intended for programs of more than six months. Its display from 181 days in VisaGuideline is a current limitation of the service, not an official conversion of six months; verify the exact program dates with IRCC.Submit the application before travelling, onlineConditions and details
As a general rule, the study permit application is submitted before coming to Canada, online. Some people may submit it from Canada, for example if they already have a study or work permit, or, in certain cases, on arrival at the port of entry: the page cites for this purpose United States citizens, United States permanent residents, residents of Greenland and those of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon. Processing time varies by country.Validity of the PAL/TAL and change of institutionConditions and details
The PAL/TAL is tied to the institution and, in general, must be used in the year it was issued. Since January 22, 2025, a change of institution requires a new PAL/TAL before submitting a new application. Before arrival, changing institution after approval requires submitting a new application with a new letter of acceptance and paying all fees again.First-year funds and amounts updated each yearConditions and details
IRCC updates the living expense amounts each year. For an application submitted between January 1, 2025 and August 31, 2026, the amount outside Quebec for one person was CAD 22 895, compared with CAD 23 448 from September 1, 2026, excluding tuition and transportation fees. You must verify the table in effect on the date of submission.Validation of the letter of acceptance by the institutionConditions and details
For post-secondary studies, IRCC asks the institution to verify the validity of the letter of acceptance. If the institution does not respond before the deadline, IRCC returns the application and refunds the processing fees: it is better to confirm with the institution that it will validate the letter before reapplying.Deferring enrolmentConditions and details
To start later than planned at the institution that issued the letter of acceptance, the student has the deferral approved by the institution and obtains an updated letter of acceptance, which the student sends to IRCC through the online account or through the web form. After approval of the application, the student must also have a valid letter of introduction and present these documents at the point of entry.Arriving and working: dates and limitsConditions and details
No fixed period is imposed between arrival in Canada and the start of studies: it is enough to allow a reasonable amount of time for preparation. One cannot work, on campus or off campus, before having started one's studies in Canada.Working during studiesConditions and details
A student holding a study permit and enrolled full-time at a designated institution may sometimes work on campus or off campus: in that case, the permit includes a condition authorizing the student to work. The student cannot work during an authorized leave from studies, even if the permit allows it. Exception indicated by IRCC: if the institution temporarily closes because of a strike, the student already authorized to work on campus or off campus keeps this authorization for a maximum of 150 days.Study permit conditions and consequencesConditions and details
Unless an exemption applies, one must be enrolled at a designated institution and actively pursue studies full-time or part-time in each session, excluding regular holidays, while progressing in one's program. An extension of the permit is required to change post-secondary institution. One must stop studies if one no longer meets the student conditions and leave Canada upon expiry of the permit. An authorized leave cannot exceed 150 days. Some persons are exempt from proving enrolment or active pursuit of studies; the other conditions of their permit remain applicable. In case of non-compliance, IRCC may request that the person leave Canada and impose a wait of 6 months before a new application for a study permit, a visitor visa or a work permit in Canada.Post-graduation work permitConditions and details
After graduation, a post-graduation work permit may allow one to stay and work in Canada. Eligibility depends on several conditions, including the time when the study permit application is submitted: they must be verified before submitting and one must ensure that the chosen institution offers eligible programs.Frequent grounds for refusalConditions and details
IRCC may refuse the application if the letter of acceptance is not valid, if proof of sufficient funds is missing, if the required medical examination is not passed, if the officer is not convinced that the main purpose of the stay is to study or that the applicant will leave Canada at the end of studies. A letter explains the grounds for refusal.Temporary measures related to Ebola virus diseaseConditions and details
IRCC pages indicate temporary measures taken in response to Ebola virus disease, extended until 27 November 2026. Their content is not detailed here: consult the IRCC page dedicated to these measures before submitting the application.
Work visa
What the permit authorizesConditions and details
This list concerns an application submitted from outside Canada; procedures from within Canada or at a port of entry have their own instructions. The employer-specific work permit authorizes working in Canada according to its conditions, until its expiry date. It indicates the employer, the place of work and the occupation, as well as a numbered list of conditions and any remarks. All information on it must be respected.Two types of permits: you do not chooseConditions and details
There are two types of work permits: the employer-specific permit, the most common, which requires a job offer, and the open permit, reserved for particular situations and without a job offer. You cannot choose the type of permit: IRCC offers a question tool to find out which one applies. The employment-related documents in this list concern the employer-specific permit. For an open permit, follow the personalized list; if employment documents are requested there, upload a document bearing "Not applicable".The LMIA: to whom does it apply?Conditions and details
A labour market impact assessment (LMIA) determines whether hiring a temporary foreign worker will have a positive or negative effect on the Canadian labour market. Most employers need one before hiring. It is not required if the worker already holds an open permit, nor if an exemption applies (International Mobility Program): the employer then indicates the exemption code in their job offer.Working without a work permitConditions and details
Most foreign nationals need a work permit to work in Canada. Some people are exempt from it depending on their occupation or their situation, for example business visitors, foreign representatives or military personnel; even without a permit, a visitor visa or an eTA will probably be required to enter Canada.- Validity period of the permitMost work permits are valid from 1 to 2 years, but the duration varies. The permit cannot exceed the expiry date of the passport or that of the biometrics.
Upfront medical examinationConditions and details
When one has not yet left one's country of residence, one can have an immigration medical examination before leaving. If one brings proof of it to the Canadian border, the permit will not include a medical condition; a permit already issued with these conditions may sometimes have them removed.To do upon arrival: social insurance number and health insuranceConditions and details
One must apply for a social insurance number upon arrival in Canada. The worker and their dependants must either have provincial or territorial health insurance, or have the money necessary if medical care is needed; the eligibility rules for public insurance vary by province or territory.- Extend, change status or studyDepending on their situation, the holder of a work permit can extend or amend it, study while working or apply for permanent residence.
Grounds for refusal of a work permit applicationConditions and details
The application may be refused in particular if the applicant does not meet the conditions of the type of permit applied for, if the officer doubts that they will leave Canada at the end of their stay, if the applicant or their family is inadmissible, if the file is incomplete, if the funds are insufficient, if the job offer is not genuine or if the proof of skills or studies is insufficient. It is possible to resubmit an application, unless the decision letter prohibits it, but only with new information.Documents to have at the border and identity checkConditions and details
The passport must be valid longer than the intended duration of stay. At some Canadian airports, fingerprints are verified automatically at a primary inspection kiosk; elsewhere, an officer may collect them at secondary inspection. The border services officer makes the final decision to issue the permit and authorize entry, and they must be given accurate and complete information.Temporary measures related to Ebola virus diseaseConditions and details
IRCC pages indicate temporary measures taken in response to Ebola virus disease, extended until 27 November 2026. Their content is not detailed here: consult the IRCC page dedicated to these measures before submitting the application.
Frequently asked questions
Canada, Togo passport: is a visa required?
Visa required for a short tourist stay with an ordinary passport.
Visitor visa: which documents are requested?
Digital copy of the valid passport or travel document ; Visitor visa application completed online in the IRCC portal ; Documents from the personalised list provided by the portal.
Visitor visa: what are the official fees?
Visitor visa processing fee, per person : 100 CAD ; Visitor visa processing fee, family of 5 persons or more (total) : 500 CAD ; Biometrics fee, per person : 85 CAD ; Biometrics fee, family applying at the same time (total cap) : 170 CAD.
Visitor visa: where do I apply?
IRCC portal ("IRCC Portal", option 1 of 2) for the online application. ; New version of the IRCC portal (option 2 of 2): 18 years or older, application alone, first application with IRCC, without a representative. ; Paper application, only if applying online is impossible (including disability) or with a document issued to a refugee, a stateless person or a non-citizen. ; Official biometric collection site by appointment: visa application reception centre, Service Canada (in Canada) or Application Support Center (in the United States)..
Visitor visa: how long can I stay?
Stay of up to 181 days.
Student visa: which documents are requested?
Copy of the information page of a valid passport or travel document ; Two recent passport-format photos, with the name and date of birth written on the back of each ; Proof of sufficient funds for tuition fees, living expenses and round-trip transportation, for yourself and accompanying family members ; Documents from the personalized list provided by the IRCC portal after the questionnaire.
Student visa: what are the official fees?
Study permit application, processing fee : 150 CAD ; Biometrics fee, per person : 85 CAD ; Biometrics fee, family submitting at the same time (total cap) : 170 CAD.
Student visa: where do I apply?
IRCC account and online portal to submit the study permit application, from outside or inside Canada ; Paper application, only in case of a disability preventing the online application or with an identity or travel document of a non-national resident, refugee or stateless person ; Designated learning institution and province or territory: letter of acceptance and PAL/TAL; government of Quebec for the CAQ ; Physician appearing on the list of designated physicians (panel physicians), for the immigration medical examination, preferably before the application ; Biometrics collection point indicated by IRCC, by appointment after receiving the instruction letter ; Canada Border Services Agency officer at a point of entry: control on arrival and issuance of the study permit.
Work visa: which documents are requested?
Form IMM 1295 for a work permit application made from outside Canada ; Photocopy of a valid (unexpired) passport or travel document ; A photo that meets visa photo specifications ; Documents from the personalized list provided by the IRCC portal ; Proof of sufficient funds to support oneself and one’s family during the stay and for the return ; Port of Entry introduction letter given by IRCC after approval, to be presented on arrival.
Work visa: what are the official fees?
Processing of the work permit application, for all applicants (unless exempt) : 155 CAD ; Biometrics fee, per person : 85 CAD ; Biometrics fee, family submitting at the same time (total cap) : 170 CAD ; Additional open work permit holder fee, if applicable and unless exempt : 100 CAD.
Work visa: where do I apply?
IRCC account and online portal to submit the work permit application from outside Canada ; Paper application, only in case of disability, for the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, or with an identity or travel document of a non-national resident, refugee or stateless person ; ESDC online LMIA portal (Job Bank account required), through which the employer applies for the LMIA ; IRCC employer portal, through which the employer of an LMIA-exempt job submits the job offer and obtains the job offer number ; Biometrics collection point indicated by IRCC, by appointment after receiving the instruction letter ; Canada Border Services Agency officer at a port of entry: inspection on arrival and printing of the work permit.
Official links
- How to apply for a visitor visa - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Biometrics - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- After you apply for a visitor visa - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Eligibility to apply for a visitor visa - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Visitor visa: About the document - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Visitor Visa: Prepare for your arrival - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Biometrics: When to give your fingerprints and photo - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Visitor visa (temporary resident visa) - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Minor children travelling to Canada - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (new tab) laws-lois.justice.gc.ca
- IRCC (Canada.ca) — What you need to enter Canada: entry requirements by country or territoryIRCC (Canada.ca) — What you need to enter Canada : exigences d’entrée par pays ou territoire (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Biometrics: How to give your fingerprints and photo - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Study permit: Get the right documents - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Study permit: Get the right documents — Provincial attestation letter or territorial attestation letter - Canada.caStudy permit: Get the right documents Provincial attestation letter or territorial attestation letter - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Study permit: Get the right documents - Proof of financial support - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Medical exams for visitors, students and workers - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Study permit: How to apply - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Study permit: After you apply - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Study permit: Who can study without a permit - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Study permit: Prepare for arrival - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Your conditions as a study permit holder in Canada - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Study permit: Who can apply - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Study permit - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Work permit: Forms and document requirements for applications outside Canada - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Work permit: Submit your application from outside Canada – Steps and priority processing - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Work permit: Apply from outside Canada – Eligibility and requirements - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Employer-specific work permits: eligibility, LMIA, and application steps - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Work permit: Wait for a decision after applying outside Canada – Status and next steps - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Work permit: Arrive in Canada – Documents and entry process at the border - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Work permit: After applying from outside Canada – Conditions and next steps - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Who needs a labour market impact assessment - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Who can work in Canada without a work permit – exemptions and eligibility - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
- Hire a temporary foreign worker with a Labour Market Impact Assessment - Canada.ca (new tab) www.canada.ca
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