Canada welcomes digital nomads under its Tech Talent Strategy, allowing remote workers to stay up to 6 months on visitor status while working for foreign employers. With world-class internet infrastructure, multicultural cities, and stunning natural landscapes, Canada offers an excellent base for remote work. The country has no formal digital nomad visa but explicitly permits remote work for non-Canadian clients under visitor status.
9
Visa Types
183
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:
Visa requirements vary by nationality
🎫 Available Visa Types
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Digital travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals flying to Canada. Valid for 5 years or until passport expires, allowing multiple entries with stays up to 6 months each.
180 days
Duration
CAD 7
— fee
+CAD 300 additional
✅ Key Benefits
✓Quick and easy online application
✓Low cost (CAD 7 only)
✓Valid for 5 years or until passport expires
✓Multiple entries allowed
✓Stay up to 6 months per entry
✓Remote work for foreign employers permitted
✓Can apply for work permit if offered Canadian job
📋 Requirements (5)
•Valid passport from a visa-exempt country
•Valid email address
•Credit or debit card for payment
•No criminal record or immigration violations
•Good health (no medical exam required for eTA)
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ Most applications approved within minutes; some may take up to 72 hours
1Visit the official IRCC website at canada.ca/eta
2Complete the online application form with passport details
3Answer background questions about health, criminal history, and travel
4Pay the CAD 7 fee with credit or debit card
5Receive approval via email (usually within minutes)
6eTA is electronically linked to your passport - no document to print
5Pay application fee (CAD 155) and biometrics fee (CAD 85)
6Complete biometrics appointment
7Complete medical exam if required
8Wait for processing and decision
9If approved, receive Port of Entry Letter of Introduction
10Present documents at Canadian port of entry to receive work permit
⚠️ Restrictions
•Tied to specific employer
•Requires employer to obtain LMIA (CAD 1,000 + effort)
•Cannot change employers without new work permit
•Longer processing times
•Must leave Canada if employment ends and no new permit
💡 Tips
•Ensure your employer has already received positive LMIA before applying
•Keep copies of all documents and correspondence
•Apply for extension well before current permit expires
•Consider Express Entry or PNP for permanent residence pathway
•Your spouse may qualify for open work permit - apply together
Work Permit (LMIA-Exempt)
WorkPopular
Work permit that does not require LMIA, available under international agreements, intra-company transfers, or other exemptions.
365d
Duration
CAD 470
— fee
📍Apply: Online
⏱2-8 weeks depending on category and country
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
CADUSD
Required
Work permit application feePer person, non-refundable
CAD 155—
Biometrics feeRequired for most applicants
CAD 85—
Employer compliance feePaid by employer through Employer Portal
CAD 230—
Required Total
CAD 470—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid job offer from Canadian employer
•Eligible exemption category (international agreement, intra-company transfer, etc.)
•Employer has submitted offer through Employer Portal
•Valid passport
•Proof of qualifications
•Biometrics
•Proof of exemption eligibility
📝 Application Steps
1Employer submits job offer through IRCC Employer Portal
2Employer pays compliance fee (CAD 230)
3Receive job offer number from employer
4Create IRCC online account
5Complete work permit application with exemption category
6Pay fees and provide biometrics
7Wait for processing
8Receive work permit or Port of Entry Letter
⚠️ Restrictions
•Must qualify under specific exemption category
•Often tied to specific employer
•Employer must still submit offer through portal
•Compliance fee required from employer
💡 Tips
•Verify your exemption category before applying
•CUSMA (formerly NAFTA) covers many professional categories for US and Mexican citizens
•Intra-company transfers require at least 1 year with parent company abroad
•Check Global Talent Stream for tech occupations - much faster processing
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
WorkPopular
Open work permit for international students who completed eligible programs at Canadian designated learning institutions. Duration depends on program length.
365d
Duration
CAD 240
— fee
📍Apply: Online
⏱2-4 months on average
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
CADUSD
Required
Work permit application feeNon-refundable
CAD 155—
Biometrics feeIf not provided in previous 10 years
CAD 85—
Required Total
CAD 240—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Completed eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI)
•Program was at least 8 months in duration
•Valid study permit at time of application
•Applied within 180 days of receiving final marks
•Maintained full-time student status throughout program
•No previous PGWP issued
📝 Application Steps
1Complete your program and receive official final marks or completion letter
2Apply online within 180 days of receiving marks
3Create IRCC online account if you don't have one
4Complete PGWP application form
5Pay fees (CAD 155 + CAD 85 biometrics if needed)
6Submit proof of program completion from DLI
7Wait for processing (implied status allows work while waiting)
8Receive open work permit
⚠️ Restrictions
•One PGWP per lifetime
•Cannot be extended or renewed
•Must have completed eligible program
•Must apply within 180 days of graduation
•Not available for all programs or institutions
💡 Tips
•Apply as soon as you receive final marks - don't wait
•Keep all proof of completion and transcripts
•Start looking for work immediately to maximize Canadian experience
•Use PGWP work experience to qualify for Express Entry
•Check if your occupation qualifies for Canadian Experience Class
Study Permit
EducationPopular
Required for international students planning to study in Canada for more than 6 months. Includes off-campus work authorization.
365d
Duration
CAD 235
— fee
+CAD 20,635 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱4-12 weeks depending on country
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
CADUSD
Required
Study permit application feeNon-refundable
CAD 150—
Biometrics feeRequired for most applicants
CAD 85—
Additional (estimated)
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) processingRequired for most applications - process varies by province
CAD 0—
GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)Recommended proof of funds - increases to CAD 22,895 from September 2025
CAD 20,635—
Required Total
CAD 235—
+ Additional (estimated)
CAD 20,635—
Estimated Total
CAD 20,870—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
•Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) for most applications
•Proof of sufficient funds (tuition + CAD 20,635 for living expenses, increasing to CAD 22,895 from Sept 2025)
•Valid passport
•Proof of identity
•Biometrics
•Letter of explanation
•Clean criminal record
•Good health (medical exam may be required)
📝 Application Steps
1Obtain acceptance letter from a DLI
2Apply for Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from your province of study
3Gather proof of funds (bank statements, GIC, scholarship letters)
4Create IRCC online account
5Complete study permit application
6Upload required documents including PAL and acceptance letter
7Pay fees (CAD 150 + CAD 85 biometrics)
8Complete biometrics appointment
9Complete medical exam if required
10Wait for decision
⚠️ Restrictions
•Must maintain full-time student status
•Work hours limited during academic sessions
•Requires PAL for most applications
•High financial requirements
•Must leave Canada within 90 days of program completion if not applying for PGWP
💡 Tips
•Apply for PAL early - processing times vary by province
•GIC is recommended as proof of funds - easier than bank statements
•Financial requirement increases to CAD 22,895 from September 2025
•Apply for study permit well in advance of program start
•Keep proof of enrollment and maintain full-time status
•Plan for PGWP and permanent residence pathway from the start
Express Entry (Permanent Residence)
Special ProgramPopular
Points-based system for skilled workers to obtain Canadian permanent residence. Three main programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades.
0y
Duration
CAD 1,510
— fee
+CAD 2,335 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱Approximately 6 months after ITA
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
CADUSD
Required
Principal applicant processing feeNon-refundable application processing fee
CAD 850—
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)Paid before visa issuance
CAD 575—
Biometrics feeIf not provided in previous 10 years
Canada does not have a formal visa specifically branded as a "digital nomad visa." However, under its Tech Talent Strategy launched in 2023, Canada explicitly welcomes remote workers to enter on visitor status (eTA or Visitor Visa) and work remotely for foreign employers for up to 6 months. No work permit is required as long as your income comes from outside Canada and you don't enter the Canadian labor market. This makes Canada one of the most accessible destinations for digital nomads from visa-exempt countries.
Can I work remotely for a foreign company while staying in Canada?
Yes, Canada explicitly allows remote work for foreign employers under visitor status. According to IRCC guidelines, digital nomads can "perform their job remotely from anywhere in the world" while visiting Canada for up to 6 months. You don't need a work permit as long as you're working for a non-Canadian employer or providing services to clients outside Canada. However, you cannot work for Canadian employers or clients without a work permit. If you receive a job offer from a Canadian company while visiting, you would need to apply for a work permit before starting that employment.
How long can I stay in Canada as a visitor?
Most visitors can stay in Canada for up to 6 months per entry. The exact length of your authorized stay is determined by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer at the port of entry. If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for a Visitor Record (extension) before your status expires. With a Visitor Record, you can potentially extend your stay for additional periods. There is no strict maximum total stay, but CBSA officers will assess whether your extended stay has a legitimate purpose and whether you have sufficient ties to your home country.
What is the difference between an eTA and a Visitor Visa?
An eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is for citizens of visa-exempt countries who are flying to Canada. It costs CAD 7, is valid for 5 years, and is approved within minutes online. A Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) is required for citizens of visa-required countries regardless of how they travel to Canada. It costs CAD 100 plus CAD 85 for biometrics, requires more documentation, and takes 2-8 weeks to process. US citizens need neither - they can enter with just a valid US passport.
What are the tax implications for digital nomads in Canada?
Canada uses a 183-day rule: if you stay 183 days or more in a calendar year, you may be deemed a tax resident and be required to report worldwide income to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). However, the CRA also considers "residential ties" such as a home, spouse, or dependents in Canada. Digital nomads staying less than 183 days who maintain their tax residency elsewhere and have no significant residential ties to Canada are generally not considered Canadian tax residents. Most countries have tax treaties with Canada that include provisions to avoid double taxation. Consult a tax professional familiar with cross-border issues for your specific situation.
What is the internet speed like in Canada for remote work?
Canada has excellent internet infrastructure, particularly in urban areas. Average fixed broadband download speeds are approximately 150-250 Mbps in major cities, with mobile speeds around 70-100 Mbps. The government goal is 50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload for all Canadians. Major providers include Rogers, Bell, Telus, and Shaw. Coworking spaces in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal typically offer reliable high-speed connections. Rural and remote areas may have more limited connectivity, so check coverage before choosing your base.
Can I open a bank account in Canada as a visitor?
Yes, visitors can open bank accounts at most major Canadian banks including RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, and CIBC. You'll typically need a valid passport and another form of ID, plus proof of address (can be temporary accommodation). Many banks offer newcomer packages with fee waivers. Some banks like Scotiabank allow you to start the application process online before arriving. You don't need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) for a basic account, though having one helps for interest-earning accounts. Digital alternatives like Wise and Revolut also work well for short-term stays.
What is the cost of living for digital nomads in Canada?
Canada has a relatively high cost of living, especially in major cities. Monthly expenses vary significantly by location: Toronto and Vancouver are most expensive at approximately CAD 3,000-5,000/month for a comfortable lifestyle including rent. Montreal, Calgary, and Edmonton are more moderate at CAD 2,500-3,500/month. Smaller cities and Maritime provinces can be more affordable at CAD 2,000-3,000/month. Rent is typically the largest expense, ranging from CAD 1,500-2,500/month for a one-bedroom apartment in major cities. Coworking spaces cost approximately CAD 200-400/month.
Is Canada safe for digital nomads?
Canada is considered one of the safest countries in the world. The US State Department rates Canada as Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) - the lowest risk category. Crime rates are generally low, and violent crime is rare in most areas. As in any country, take normal precautions against petty theft in tourist areas and major cities. Car thefts have increased in some urban areas. Seasonal hazards include harsh winters (cold temperatures, snow) and wildfires in western regions during summer months (May-September). Overall, Canada is an excellent choice for safety-conscious travelers.
How can I extend my stay in Canada beyond 6 months?
To extend your stay beyond 6 months, apply for a Visitor Record through the IRCC online portal before your current status expires. The application costs CAD 100 and typically takes 100-130 days to process. While your application is being processed, you have "implied status" and can legally remain in Canada. You'll need to provide a valid reason for the extension, proof of sufficient funds, and evidence that you will leave when your extended stay ends. Apply at least 30 days before your status expires. If your status has already expired, you can apply for restoration of status within 90 days for an additional CAD 229 fee.
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Important Disclaimer
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2025