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Canada Visa for China Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Chinese citizens need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) obtained in advance from IRCC, since Chinese passport holders are not eligible for an eTA; the fee is CAD 100 and processing typically takes 4-8 weeks.

Guide last updated October 3, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for the duration of the intended stay, with at least 1 blank page
  • Completed online application via the IRCC portal (paper form available at a Visa Application Centre for those without online access)
  • Digital photo, 35x50mm, meeting IRCC specifications
  • Proof of financial support (bank statements, pay slips) covering the trip
  • Proof of ties to China (employment letter, property, family) showing intent to return
  • Invitation letter or itinerary/accommodation booking
  • Biometrics: fingerprints and photo required, submitted at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in China
  • Travel health/medical insurance: not mandatory for a visit, but strongly recommended

Visa types

  • Single-entry Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): valid for the specific trip, fee CAD 100
  • Multiple-entry TRV: valid up to 10 years or passport expiry, same CAD 100 fee, often issued by default to low-risk applicants
  • Super Visa (for parents/grandparents of Canadian residents): valid up to 10 years, stays up to 5 years per entry, fee CAD 100
  • Student/work visas: separate permit categories requiring additional study/work permit applications

How to apply

  • Apply online through the IRCC portal, or submit paper forms at a VFS Global-operated Visa Application Centre in China
  • Steps: create an IRCC account, complete the application, upload documents, pay the fee, book a biometrics appointment at the VAC, attend biometrics
  • Fee: CAD 100 visa fee plus CAD 85 biometrics fee, plus a VAC service fee of roughly CNY 200-250
  • Standard processing time: approximately 4-8 weeks, longer during peak periods
  • Interview: not routinely required but may be requested by the visa office

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: CAD 100 (~USD 73)
  • Biometrics fee: CAD 85 (~USD 62)
  • VFS/VAC service fee: approximately CNY 200-250 (~USD 28-35)
  • Total cost estimate: roughly USD 160-180
  • Standard processing time: 4-8 weeks; no official express/priority service

Tips for China travelers

  • Apply at least 2-3 months before your planned travel date given variable processing times
  • Common rejection reasons: insufficient proof of funds, weak ties to China, or an unclear itinerary
  • Use an authorized VAC (operated by VFS Global) rather than unofficial agents
  • A strong travel history can support a request for a multiple-entry visa
  • Extensions of stay inside Canada can be applied for online, before the current authorization expires, as a "visitor record" extension

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for China passport holders

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.