Thinking about a short trip to Canada? Maybe to visit friends, see some places, or do a quick business trip? It’s pretty easy for Filipinos to go!
If you have a Philippine passport, you’ll just need to apply for an eTA (electronic travel authorization) online. It’s faster and simpler than a visa, so you can spend less time worrying and more time looking forward to your trip.
Before you go, just make sure you know how long you can stay and what papers to bring. This short guide will help you plan your trip without the stress.
Do Filipinos need a visa for Canada?
Yes. If you have a Philippine passport, you need a visa before you go to Canada.
Applying isn’t too hard, but you’ll need a few things ready. Make sure your passport is valid, and have your flight booking and hotel address. If you plan to visit someone, they may need to send you an invitation letter too.
Once you have your visa, you can go and enjoy your trip. Just remember to check the dates so you know how long you can stay.
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Visa Tips if You’re Staying in Canada More Than 6 Months
Thinking of staying in Canada for a while? If you plan to stay longer than six months, you’ll need to apply for a visa before you go. The short-visit option won’t work for a long stay.
Here are some visas you can look into:
👉 Visitor Visa – If you want to see friends, family, or travel around Canada for more than six months.
👉 Work Permit – If you have a job lined up in Canada.
👉 Study Permit – If you plan to go to school, college, or university.
👉 Family Visa – If you’ll stay with a close family member who’s already in Canada.
Before you apply, make sure your passport is up to date and all your papers are ready. It’s also smart to check the latest rules on Canada’s official website so you don’t miss anything.
Which Countries Can Visit Canada Without a Visa?
If you’re planning a short trip to Canada, it’s good to know if you need a visa. Many people can visit without one, but they do need an eTA. Here’s a simple list to help you plan.
Country | Allowed Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
USA | 6 months | Bring a valid passport |
UK | 6 months | Get an eTA before you fly |
Australia | 6 months | eTA required before travel |
New Zealand | 6 months | Bring proof of return or onward trip |
Japan | 6 months | eTA needed |
South Korea | 6 months | Get your eTA online |
Singapore | 6 months | eTA before you go |
France | 6 months | Passport must be valid during stay |
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Canada Visa Types
If you’re not sure which visa you need for your trip to Canada, here’s a simple guide. Whether you’re going for a visit, work, school, or to join family, this will help you choose.
Visa Type | Who It’s For | How Long You Can Stay | What to Know |
|---|---|---|---|
Visitor Visa | For tourists, visiting friends or family | Usually up to 6 months | Good for holidays, seeing family, or short business trips |
Work Permit | If you have a job offer in Canada | Depends on your work contract | You’ll need a job offer and papers from your employer |
Study Permit | If you plan to study in Canada | Length of your course | Bring your school’s acceptance letter |
Family Sponsorship | Joining a close family member in Canada | Depends on sponsor’s status | Proof like birth or marriage certificate will be needed |
Business Visa | For investors or starting a business | Varies | You’ll need a clear business plan and some funds |
Temporary Resident Permit | Special permission for short stays | Varies | Given if you’re usually not allowed to enter Canada |
Working Holiday Visa | For youth from partner countries (18–35) | Up to 2 years | Lets you work and travel at the same time |
Permanent Residence | For living and working in Canada forever | Permanent | Apply after meeting the requirements for immigration |
Canada Visa Requirements for Filipinos
Planning a trip to Canada for more than six months or need a specific visa? Before you apply, make sure you have your papers ready. These show who you are, why you’re going, and that you can pay for your trip. Being prepared will help make your application smoother.
Document | What It Is | Why You Need It |
|---|---|---|
Valid Philippine Passport | Your main travel ID | Proves who you are and your nationality |
Completed Application Form | Filled-out Canada visa form | Gives details of your trip and purpose |
Recent Passport Photo | A clear, up-to-date ID picture | Used for your visa and other papers |
Proof of Funds | Bank statement, payslip, or income proof | Shows you can pay for your trip and stay in Canada |
Flight Ticket | Return or onward travel booking | Proves you plan to leave Canada before your visa ends |
Accommodation Info | Hotel booking or address of where you’ll stay | Lets them know where you’ll stay in Canada |
Extra Documents Based on Visa Type
Depending on the visa you need, you might also have to submit a few extra papers:
Visa Type | Extra Papers You May Need |
|---|---|
Visitor Visa | Travel plan, hotel booking, proof you can pay for the trip |
Work Permit | Job offer, contract from your employer, Labour Market Impact Assessment (if required) |
Study Permit | Acceptance letter from your school, proof you can pay tuition and living expenses |
Family Sponsorship | Marriage or birth certificate, copy of your sponsor’s status in Canada |
Business Visa | Business plan, proof of funds, company registration papers |
How to Apply for a Canada Visa (For Filipinos)
Planning a trip to Canada? Whether you’re going to visit, work, study, or see family, here’s a simple guide to help you apply without the hassle:
1.Check if You Need a Visa
If you have a Philippine passport, you do need a visa to enter Canada.
2. Get Your Documents Ready
Before you apply, make sure you have these:
✅ Valid Philippine Passport (make sure it’s not about to expire)
✅ Completed Application Form (you can do this online)
✅ 1 Recent Passport Photo (with a white background, taken in the last 6 months)
✅ Proof of Funds (bank statements, payslips, or other proof you can pay for your trip)
✅ Flight Booking (return or onward ticket)
✅ Accommodation Info (hotel booking or address of a friend or family you’re staying with)
✅ Other papers depending on your visa (e.g. school acceptance letter, job offer, or invitation)
3. Apply Online
You’ll need to submit your visa application and documents through the IRCC website. Follow the steps carefully and pay the visa fee online.
4. Give Your Biometrics
After you apply, you’ll get a request for biometrics. Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to have your photo and fingerprints taken.
5. Wait for Processing
Processing can take a few weeks, so it’s a good idea to apply early. Check the IRCC website for the latest wait times.
6. Get Your Visa
When your visa is approved, you’ll get a notice to submit your passport. Once you get it back with the visa, double-check all the details before you travel.
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Canada Visa Fees for Filipinos
If you’re applying for a Canada visa, it’s helpful to know the fees so you can plan your budget. You usually pay when you submit your application online or at the Visa Application Centre (VAC). Make sure to keep your receipt in case you need it later.
💰 Visa Fees
Visa Type | Fee (PHP, approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Visitor Visa (Single/Multiple Entry) | ₱5,000 – ₱6,000 | For short trips like tourism, family visits, or business |
Work Permit | ₱8,000 – ₱9,000 | If you have a job offer in Canada |
Study Permit | ₱8,000 – ₱9,000 | For students going to school in Canada |
Biometrics Fee | ₱3,000 – ₱3,500 | Required for most applicants |
Family Sponsorship | Varies | Depends on the case — check official site |
💡 Tips for Payment
✅ When to Pay: You pay during your online application or at the VAC when they ask for it.
✅ How to Pay: Credit/debit card is accepted online; check VAC for cash or other options.
✅ Keep the Receipt: Always save a copy of your payment — you might need it for follow-up or tracking.
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Safe Travels and See You in Canada! ✈️
Whether you’re going to Canada for a holiday, to study, work, or visit family and friends, we hope this guide has made the process a bit easier. Get your papers ready, follow the steps, and you’ll be good to go.
Before you leave, don’t forget:
✅ Book your flight to Canada early so you can get a good deal.
✅ Find a place to stay in advance — hotel, Airbnb, or a friend’s home.
✅ Get a local SIM card or pocket WiFi once you arrive — it’ll help you with maps, messages, and looking up places.
Canada is full of friendly people, beautiful parks, and exciting cities. Pack your bags, dress for the weather, and get ready to have a great trip.
Have a safe flight and enjoy Canada! 🍁