Types of Canada Visa 2027: Study, Work and Visitor Guide

Types of Canada Visa 2027: Study, Work, Visitor and Immigration Options Explained Every year, millions of people travel to Canada to study, work, visit family, or settle permanently. Each of them needs the correct document, and the types of Canada visas available depend on three things: why you are travelling, how long you plan to stay, and whether you hope to build a long-term life in the country. Choosing the wrong category is one of the most common reasons applications are delayed or refused. A student who applies as a visitor, or a visitor who tries to work on a visitor document, can face problems at the border and in future applications. Understanding the Canada visa category system before you start will save time, money, and stress. This guide explains each category in plain language. It covers temporary and permanent options, distinguishes a visa from a permit and an electronic travel authorization, and answers the questions Indian applicants ask most often. The information reflects official Government of Canada guidance, last reviewed in 2026. Because rules and processing times change, always confirm the current position on the official IRCC website before you apply in 2027. Visa, Permit or eTA: Know the Difference Many applicants confuse three documents that serve different purposes. Knowing which one you need is the first step. Document What it does Who usually needs it Visitor visa (TRV) Allows temporary entry for tourism, family visits, or business meetings Visitors from countries that require a visa Study permit Allows you to study at a Designated Learning Institution for more than six months International students Work permit Allows you to work for a specific employer or under an open permit Workers and some graduates Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Pre-approves air travel for eligible visa-exempt travellers Visa-exempt nationals flying to Canada A visa is placed in your passport. A permit or eTA is linked to your electronic record. Always confirm which document applies to your country and purpose before you book flights or pay for courses. Overview of the Main Types of Canada Visa The table below gives a quick view of the main categories. Each one is explained in more detail later in this guide. Category Main purpose Typical stay Can you work? Visitor visa (single or multiple entry) Tourism, family visits, short business trips Up to six months per visit No Super Visa Visits by parents and grandparents Up to 24 months per visit No Study