Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Canada to reach another destination. Required for certain nationalities even for airport transit.
Benefits of Transit Visa
Why transit through Canada is convenient for international travel
Quick Transit
Transit through Canada within 48 hours to reach your final destination efficiently.
Airport Stay
For some nationalities, no intention to leave airport required during transit.
Global Connectivity
Use Canada as a transit hub to reach destinations worldwide with major airlines.
Connecting Flights
Connect between international flights through Canadian airports safely and legally.
Transit Visa Requirements
What you need for transit through Canada
Travel Documentation
- Confirmed onward travel ticket
- Valid visa for destination country
- Transit through Canada within 48 hours
- Valid passport from transit visa required country
Transit Conditions
- No intention to leave airport (for some)
- Connecting flight within 48 hours
- Same or different airline connections allowed
- Baggage checked through to final destination
Exemptions
- Transit Without Visa (TWOV) program eligible
- China Transit Program participants
- Certain nationalities with connecting flights
- Valid US visa holders (specific conditions)
Transit Programs & Exemptions
Special programs that may allow transit without visa
Transit Without Visa (TWOV)
Eligible travelers can transit through Canada without a transit visa under specific conditions.
Conditions:
- • Eligible nationality
- • Valid documents for destination
- • Connecting flight within 24 hours
China Transit Program (CTP)
Chinese nationals can transit through Canada without visa when traveling between China and Mexico.
Conditions:
- • Chinese passport holder
- • Travel between China and Mexico
- • Transit within 24 hours
Important Transit Notes
- • Check if your nationality requires transit visa even for airport transit
- • Transit visa requirements can change - verify current rules before travel
- • Some connecting flights may require leaving secure transit area
- • Transit visa processing is typically faster than regular visitor visas
Explore Other Visitor Visa Types
Compare different visitor visa options for Canada
Need Transit Visa Guidance?
Get expert guidance on transit visa requirements, exemption programs, and application strategies for smooth travel through Canada.