Do Turkish Citizens Need a Visa for Canada?
Turkish travelers planning a trip to Canada often ask: “Do Turkish citizens need a visa for Canada?” The answer is yes—Turkish passport holders must apply for a visa before traveling to Canada.
Canada requires Turkish citizens to obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), commonly known as a Canada visitor visa, before entering the country for tourism, business, or family visits. Unlike travelers from visa-exempt countries, Turkish citizens cannot apply for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) and must go through a visa application process.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:
- Do Turkish citizens need a visa for Canada?
- Types of visas available for Turkish travelers
- How to apply for a Canadian visa from Turkey
- Processing times and fees
- Traveling to Canada with a Turkish passport
Do Turkish Citizens Need a Visa for Canada?
Yes, Turkish citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Canada. This applies whether you are visiting for tourism, business, study, or work.
Turkey is not a visa-exempt country, meaning Turkish passport holders must submit a visa application and receive approval before boarding a flight to Canada.
Can Turkish Citizens Apply for an eTA for Canada?
No, Turkish passport holders cannot apply for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization). The eTA is only available for travelers from visa-exempt countries. Since Turkey is not on the list, Turkish citizens must apply for a visitor visa (TRV) or other appropriate visa.
Types of Canadian Visas for Turkish Citizens
Turkish citizens can apply for different types of Canadian visas, depending on their purpose of travel. The most common options include:
1. Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)
This is the most common visa for Turkish travelers who want to visit Canada for:
✔ Tourism and sightseeing
✔ Visiting family or friends
✔ Short business trips or conferences
The visitor visa allows you to stay in Canada for up to six months per visit. It can be issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
2. Canada Study Visa for Turkish Students
If you plan to study in Canada for more than six months, you must apply for a study permit. This allows Turkish students to enroll in Canadian universities, colleges, or language schools.
3. Canada Work Visa for Turkish Citizens
Turkish professionals or skilled workers who want to work in Canada need a work permit. In most cases, you must have a job offer from a Canadian employer before applying.
4. Canada Business Visa for Turkish Citizens
Turkish business travelers attending meetings, conferences, or trade events in Canada can apply for a business visa. This is a type of visitor visa (TRV) that allows short-term business visits.
5. Canada Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents
Turkish citizens with children or grandchildren in Canada can apply for a Super Visa, which allows them to stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit without needing to renew their status.
How to Apply for a Canadian Visa from Turkey
Turkish citizens must follow these steps to apply for a Canadian visa:
Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa
Decide which type of visa you need (visitor, study, work, or business visa).
Step 2: Complete the Online Visa Application
Visit the official Government of Canada website and fill out the visa application form (IMM 5257). You will need to provide:
✔ Personal details (passport information, travel history, contact details)
✔ Purpose of your visit
✔ Proof of funds to support your stay
✔ Travel itinerary (flight and hotel bookings)
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Turkish citizens must submit the following documents:
✅ Valid Turkish passport (with at least six months validity)
✅ Recent passport-sized photos (as per Canada’s photo specifications)
✅ Proof of financial means (bank statements, pay slips, sponsorship letters)
✅ Travel history (previous visas, entry/exit stamps)
✅ Letter of invitation (if visiting family or friends)
✅ Flight and hotel reservations
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
The Canada visa fee for Turkish citizens is:
💰 CAD $100 for a visitor visa
💰 CAD $150 for a study permit
💰 CAD $155 for a work permit
Step 5: Book a Biometrics Appointment
Turkish applicants must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Turkey. You must schedule an appointment at VACs in Ankara or Istanbul.
Step 6: Attend an Interview (if required)
Some applicants may be called for an interview at the Canadian embassy or consulate.
Step 7: Wait for Processing & Receive Visa Decision
Once your application is processed, you will receive:
✔ An approved visa (stamped in your passport) OR
❌ A visa refusal letter with reasons for rejection
Canada Visa Processing Time for Turkish Citizens
The processing time for a Canada visa from Turkey varies, but on average:
📅 Visitor visa: 30–45 days
📅 Study permit: 8–12 weeks
📅 Work permit: 8–10 weeks
Delays may occur if additional documents or interviews are required.
Can Turkish Citizens Travel to Canada Without a Visa?
No, Turkish citizens cannot travel to Canada without a visa. Unlike some other nationalities, Turkish passport holders must obtain a visa in advance—they cannot apply for an eTA or get a visa on arrival.
Entering Canada with a Turkish Passport
Once you have your approved Canadian visa, you can:
✔ Board your flight to Canada
✔ Present your passport and visa to Canadian immigration officers
✔ Answer basic entry questions about your trip
✔ Enjoy your stay in Canada for up to six months (for visitors)
Common Questions About Canada Visa for Turkish Citizens
1. Can Turkish citizens apply for a Canada visa online?
Yes, Turkish applicants can submit their visa application online through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) website. However, biometrics must be done in person.
2. Can I extend my stay in Canada?
Yes, if you need to stay longer than six months, you must apply for a visitor record before your visa expires.
3. Is Canada accepting visa applications from Turkey?
Yes, Canada is accepting visa applications from Turkish citizens. However, processing times may vary depending on demand.
4. Can Turkish citizens work in Canada with a visitor visa?
No, a visitor visa does not allow you to work in Canada. You must apply for a work permit if you want to work legally.
Conclusion: Do Turkish Citizens Need a Visa for Canada?
Yes, Turkish citizens must obtain a visa to travel to Canada. Since Turkey is not a visa-exempt country, Turkish passport holders must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) before their trip.
The Canada visa application process for Turkish citizens includes filling out an online form, submitting documents, paying a fee, and providing biometrics. While the process may take several weeks, getting an approved visa ensures smooth entry into Canada.
Before traveling, Turkish citizens should check visa requirements, processing times, and application procedures to avoid delays. Safe travels! ✈
Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.
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