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Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

You need to give your biometrics.

In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply.

Find out who needs to give biometrics and how the new application process works.

Biometrics and the application process

We refer to your fingerprints and photo as biometrics. We collect biometrics for most applications. Find out what happens from when you submit your application to when you get to Canada and where biometrics fits in the process.

1. Apply for your visitor visa, study permit or work permit

If you want to visit, study or work in Canada, make sure you’re eligible to apply. Use our application guides to help fill out your application properly, then submit your application.

Avoid processing delays by sending us a complete application .

2. Get your fingerprints and photo taken

If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you probably need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics).You only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years to make repeat trips to Canada easier.

• You must pay the  biometrics fee   when you submit your application.  Otherwise you may experience delays.
• Get this done  as soon as you get the letter  from us that tells you to give biometrics.
• You have  30 days  to do this from the date on the letter.

Find out who needs to give , how to give , and  where to give your biometrics .

COVID-19: Biometrics deadline

Some biometrics collection sites are closed. If the site closest to you is closed, we’ll extend your deadline to give your biometrics. Find out how COVID-19 is affecting biometrics .

3. We process your application

After we get your biometrics, we start processing your application. See how long it takes to process your application.

If we need more information from you, we’ll contact you.

4. We make a decision on your application

When we finish reviewing your application, we let you know if you’re approved to come to Canada. If you are, we issue your documents.

If your application is refused, we send you a letter that tells you why.

5. You travel to Canada (if you’re approved)

Make sure you travel with the documents we gave you. This includes travel documents like a visitor visa, study or work permits or an eTA (electronically linked to your passport).

Airline staff and border service officers at ports of entry will ask to see your travel documents. If you don’t have them, you may not be able to board your flight to Canada.

Make sure children under 18 travel with the right documents .

6. We check your identity when you arrive in Canada

When you arrive, we check your identity to make sure that you are the same person who was approved to travel to Canada. We may use your biometrics to do this.

If we can’t verify your identity, you may be detained by a border services officer. These officers help protect the health and safety of Canadians.

If the officer determines that you’re not admissible to Canada, you won’t be allowed to enter Canada. If you came by air, you’ll have to take a return flight to where you came from.

7. You’re allowed to enter Canada

If you pass the identity check and meet the entry requirements , the border services officer stamps your passport and lets you know how long you can stay in Canada. You’re normally allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months.

Children under 18 must meet the same entry requirements as adults. The border services officer may ask minor children to show other documents depending on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone.

Basic entry requirements

You must meet some basic requirements to enter Canada. You must:

• have a valid travel document, like a passport
• be in good health
• have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your home country
• convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
• The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.

Some people are not admissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. You can be inadmissible for several reasons, including being involved in:

• criminal activity
• human rights violations
• organized crime

You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons.

Find out more about inadmissibility .

Biometrics fee

• Individual  applicant: CAD $85
• Families applying at the same time : maximum total fee of CAD $170
• Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff  who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of $CAD 255

You can apply online or on paper (in specific situations) for:

• visitor visas (also known as temporary resident visas)
• super visas (for parents and grandparents)
• transit visas

Apply online

Before you apply, make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

You must have both of these to apply online:

• access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents to upload
• a valid credit card to pay with

How you apply depends on what you apply for. Select the document you want to apply for to get instructions:

Visitor visa : Option 1 of 3

Apply for a visitor visa

Super visa (for parents and grandparents) : Option 2 of 3

Apply for a super visa

Transit visa : Option 3 of 3

Apply for a transit visa

Apply on paper (in specific situations)

Before you apply , make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

Read the instruction guide to get all the details to apply on paper.

• Instruction Guide 5256

Once you have read the guide, you can prepare your application package. You must select the country or territory from which you will apply to get your local visa office instructions.

Permanent residents of Canada

We do not issue temporary resident visas (TRV) to permanent residents (PR). If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) instead. If you meet the requirements for a PRTD, you can return to Canada as a PR.

If you no longer want to be a PR, or if you know you do not meet the requirements to keep your PR status, you can voluntarily give up (renounce) your PR status to apply for a TRV.

Application for Temporary Resident Visa

You can’t fill out and save the application form using your Internet browser. To use the form, you need to:

• Use your computer (Mac or PC). The form won’t open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones, etc.)
• Install Adobe Reader 10 (or higher)
• Download the PDF file to your computer . Save the file in a place you can remember.
• Make sure you use Adobe Reader to open the form. Sometimes if you try to open the form directly, it will use your Internet browser to try to open it.

Note: If you are applying online , you don’t need to print and sign the form. Leave the signature section empty.

Get the form

• Application for Temporary Resident Visa [IMM 5257] (PDF, 556.66 KB) June 2019

Having issues with the form?

• I can’t open my visa application form in PDF format. What can I do?
• After clicking the “validate” button on my visa application form, nothing happens and I don’t see the barcodes. Why is this happening?

How-to video

Find out if you are eligible

Living in Canada tool

Travellers from 13 more countries now eligible to visit Canada without a visa

Canada is expanding the list of countries whose residents are eligible to visit this country without a travel visa.

People travelling by air from Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, Philippines, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uruguay can now do so for up to six months without a visa, according to a release by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

“This exciting development means that more individuals from around the world can now embark on unforgettable adventures, explore our diverse landscapes, reunite with family and friends, and immerse themselves in our vibrant culture without the hurdle of visa requirements,” said Immigration Minister Sean Fraser in a statement issued Tuesday. “This expansion not only enhances convenience for travellers, it will also increase travel, tourism and economic benefits, as well as strengthen global bonds with these 13 countries.”

• Capital Dispatch: Sign up for in-depth political coverage of Parliament Hill

The 13 countries have been added to the list of more than 50 other places from which travellers are visa-exempt and electronic travel authorization (eTA)-eligible, as long as they have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa.

The eTA is a $7 pre-screening entry requirement linked to a traveller’s passport for a period of five years, and allows people to enter Canada as frequently as they want for short stays. The eTA applications are also automatically approved within minutes, according to the government release.

The new additions will also help “divert thousands of applications from Canada’s visa caseload,” which can currently take several months, depending on the country from which someone is travelling.

Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly said in the statement the addition of some of the 13 countries, particularly the Philippines, is in line with the federal government’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, released last fall.

“Expanding the eTA program to include countries like the Philippines is also an important part of our Indo-Pacific Strategy, as we look to further engage in the region, build on people-to-people ties and make travel to Canada easier, faster and safer for everyone,” she said.

According to the release, Canada can expect about 20 per cent more visitors from the 13 countries, which could bring in nearly $160 million in tourism revenue within the next decade.

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Travelling to Canada

13 more countries are now visa exempt

By Shelby Thevenot

Posted on June 6, 2023

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Canada has just added 13 countries to the electronic travel authorization (eta) program..

Travellers from these countries who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA instead of a visa when flying to Canada.

Effective June 6, 2023, eligible travellers from these countries can benefit from the program:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

The eTA is a digital travel document that most visa-exempt travellers need in order to travel to or transit through Canada by air. It is used by Canadian officials to conduct pre-travel screening of air travellers. Travellers pay CAD$7 to apply. Most applications are automatically approved within minutes.

Visa-free air travel is intended to make it faster, easier, and more affordable for thousands of travellers to visit Canada for up to six months for either business or tourism. It will help Canada’s economy grow by facilitating travel, tourism, and international business.

With fewer applications for visitor visas coming in, the expansion of the eTA will also divert thousands of applications from Canada’s visa caseload, allowing us to process visa applications more efficiently, which will benefit all visa applicants.

Travellers who already have a valid visa can continue to use it to fly to Canada. Those who are not eligible for an eTA, or who are travelling to Canada by means other than air (for example, by car, bus, train, boat and cruise ship), will still need a visitor visa. Travellers can visit the Canadian government website to find out whether they’re eligible for an eTA and how to apply for one.

To apply for an eTA, travellers need the following documents: a valid passport, a credit card, an email address and access to the Internet.

About 20.9 million eTAs have been issued since the eTA program was introduced on August 1, 2015.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) first expanded its eTA program in April 2017 to include eligible Brazilians, Bulgarians and Romanians. Later that year, Canada lifted the visa requirement for all citizens of Bulgaria and Romania. Eligible Brazilian nationals continue to enjoy visa-free air travel to Canada to this day.

Within the next 12 months, Canada expects to receive 200,000 (or 20 percent) more visitors from these 13 countries. Within a decade, increased travel from these countries is expected to bring almost $160 million in additional tourism revenue.

“This exciting development means that more individuals from around the world can now embark on unforgettable adventures, explore our diverse landscapes, reunite with family and friends, and immerse themselves in our vibrant culture without the hurdle of visa requirements,” Minister Fraser said in a media release. “This expansion not only enhances convenience for travellers, it will also increase travel, tourism and economic benefits, as well as strengthen global bonds with these 13 countries.”

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Visiting Canada

13 Additional Countries Now Qualify for Visa-Free Travel to Canada

In an announcement made by immigration minister Sean Fraser, eligible applicants from 13 countries could qualify for visa-free travel.

13 countries have now been added to the electronic travel authorization (eTA) program . Passport holders from these 13 countries travelling by air will now be able to travel to Canada without needing a Temporary Residence Visa (TRV) . To be eligible however, travellers from these countries will have to either have held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or currently have a valid United States non-immigrant visa. The countries that have been added to the eTA program are:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

“Introducing visa-free air travel will make it faster, easier, and more affordable for thousands of travellers to visit Canada for up to six months for either business or leisure” said Canada’s immigration minister. This new change will also help to grow Canada’s economy by further promoting Canadian tourism. It will also help reduce visa caseload by allowing visa applications to be processed more efficiently. 

Travellers who are not eligible for an eTA, or who are travelling to Canada by methods other than air (for example, by car, bus, train and boat—including by cruise ship), will still need a visitor visa . 

I’m from a country that is not visa-exempt, what will I need to visit?

Canada offers two kinds of visitor visas: single-entry and multiple-entry. The single-entry visa will allow foreign nationals to cross into Canada once. Those with multiple-entry visas can enter and exit as often as they like within the valid duration of their visa. A visitor visa can be granted for a period of up to six months . However, the duration of the visa will be decided by the immigration officer handling your case.

If you have children or grandchildren living in Canada, you might qualify for the super visa for parents and grandparents . This multiple-entry visa allows you to stay in the country for up to two years at a time, helping you to spend more time with your loved ones.

You have the option to extend your visitor visa from inside Canada only if your temporary status is still valid. Remaining in Canada with an expired visitor visa and no in-process extension application can jeopardize future immigration applications. If you have completed the extension application before the expiry of your visa, you can remain in Canada under implied status until the application is processed.

If you are travelling to Canada for business, you may be required to obtain a business visitor visa . It should be noted, however, that this visa is not for temporary foreign workers. A separate work permit is needed to directly engage in the Canadian labour market.

Interested in learning more about immigration to Canada? Complete our online free assessment and a member of our team will be with you shortly to discuss your options!

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Canadian Passport

The citizens of Canada can visit 114 countries without a visa.

Canadian passport holders also have access to get 36 e-visas or 18 visas on arrival .

Canada has a population of 38M people and the capital is Ottawa 🇨🇦.

Visa-free map

Nearby countries.

The nearest visa free countries to visit for Canadian passport holders are United States, Guatemala, El Salvador, Belize, Honduras and Mexico .

Visa free countries

So, where can Canadians travel without a visa? We have listed all the countries where Canada citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork.

• 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days)
• 🇦🇩 Andorra (90 days)
• 🇦🇹 Austria (90 days)
• 🇧🇾 Belarus (30 days)
• 🇧🇪 Belgium (90 days)
• 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days)
• 🇧🇬 Bulgaria (90 days)
• 🇭🇷 Croatia (90 days)
• 🇨🇾 Cyprus (90 days)
• 🇩🇰 Denmark (90 days)
• 🇪🇪 Estonia (90 days)
• 🇫🇮 Finland (90 days)
• 🇫🇷 France (90 days)
• 🇩🇪 Germany (90 days)
• 🇬🇷 Greece (90 days)
• 🇭🇺 Hungary (90 days)
• 🇮🇸 Iceland (90 days)
• 🇮🇪 Ireland (90 days)
• 🇮🇹 Italy (90 days)
• 🇱🇻 Latvia (90 days)
• 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein (90 days)
• 🇱🇹 Lithuania (90 days)
• 🇱🇺 Luxembourg (90 days)
• 🇲🇹 Malta (90 days)
• 🇲🇩 Moldova (90 days)
• 🇲🇨 Monaco (90 days)
• 🇲🇪 Montenegro (90 days)
• 🇳🇱 Netherlands (90 days)
• 🇲🇰 North Macedonia (90 days)
• 🇳🇴 Norway (3 months)
• 🇵🇱 Poland (90 days)
• 🇵🇹 Portugal (90 days)
• 🇷🇴 Romania (90 days)
• 🇸🇲 San Marino (N/A)
• 🇷🇸 Serbia (90 days)
• 🇸🇰 Slovakia (90 days)
• 🇸🇮 Slovenia (90 days)
• 🇪🇸 Spain (90 days)
• 🇸🇪 Sweden (90 days)
• 🇨🇭 Switzerland (90 days)
• 🇺🇦 Ukraine (90 days)
• 🇬🇧 United Kingdom (6 months)
• 🇻🇦 Vatican City (N/A)
• 🇦🇴 Angola (30 days)
• 🇧🇼 Botswana (90 days)
• 🇨🇻 Cape Verde (30 days)
• 🇸🇿 Eswatini (30 days)
• 🇬🇲 Gambia (90 days)
• 🇱🇸 Lesotho (N/A)
• 🇲🇼 Malawi (30 days)
• 🇲🇺 Mauritius (90 days)
• 🇲🇦 Morocco (3 months)
• 🇲🇿 Mozambique (30 days)
• 🇳🇦 Namibia (3 months)
• 🇸🇹 São Tomé and Príncipe (15 days)
• 🇸🇳 Senegal (90 days)
• 🇿🇦 South Africa (90 days)
• 🇹🇳 Tunisia (4 months)
• 🇿🇲 Zambia (30 days)
• 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda (6 months)
• 🇦🇷 Argentina (90 days)
• 🇧🇸 Bahamas (8 months)
• 🇧🇧 Barbados (6 months)
• 🇧🇿 Belize (N/A)
• 🇧🇴 Bolivia (90 days)
• 🇧🇷 Brazil (90 days)
• 🇨🇱 Chile (90 days)
• 🇨🇴 Colombia (90 days)
• 🇨🇷 Costa Rica (90 days)
• 🇩🇲 Dominica (6 months)
• 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic (30 days)
• 🇪🇨 Ecuador (90 days)
• 🇸🇻 El Salvador (3 months)
• 🇬🇩 Grenada (3 months)
• 🇬🇹 Guatemala (90 days)
• 🇬🇾 Guyana (3 months)
• 🇭🇹 Haiti (3 months)
• 🇭🇳 Honduras (3 months)
• 🇯🇲 Jamaica (90 days)
• 🇲🇽 Mexico (180 days)
• 🇳🇮 Nicaragua (90 days)
• 🇵🇦 Panama (180 days)
• 🇵🇾 Paraguay (90 days)
• 🇵🇪 Peru (90 days)
• 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis (6 months)
• 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia (6 weeks)
• 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3 months)
• 🇸🇷 Suriname (90 days)
• 🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago (N/A)
• 🇺🇸 United States (6 months)
• 🇺🇾 Uruguay (3 months)
• 🇧🇳 Brunei (14 days)
• 🇬🇪 Georgia (1 year)
• 🇮🇱 Israel (3 months)
• 🇯🇵 Japan (90 days)
• 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan (30 days)
• 🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan (60 days)
• 🇲🇾 Malaysia (3 months)
• 🇲🇳 Mongolia (30 days)
• 🇴🇲 Oman (14 days / 30 days)
• 🇵🇭 Philippines (30 days)
• 🇶🇦 Qatar (30 days)
• 🇸🇬 Singapore (30 days)
• 🇹🇼 Taiwan (90 days)
• 🇹🇯 Tajikistan (30 days)
• 🇹🇭 Thailand (30 days)
• 🇹🇷 Turkey (90 days)
• 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates (30 days)
• 🇺🇿 Uzbekistan (30 days)
• 🇫🇯 Fiji (4 months)
• 🇰🇮 Kiribati (90 days)
• 🇫🇲 Micronesia (30 days)
• 🇼🇸 Samoa (60 days)
• 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (30 days)

This data has been sourced from Wikipedia and was last updated on 4/1/2024.

• United States visa free countries
• Guatemala visa free countries
• El Salvador visa free countries

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Steps to apply for a visitor visa

• 1. About the document
• 2. Steps to apply
• 3. Who can apply
• 4. Supporting documents
• 6. After you apply

Step 1: Get the documents that show you meet the criteria for a visitor visa

Check the list of documents based on your situation

Step 2: Apply online

1. create an account.

2. Upload your documents

3. Pay your fees

How to apply for a visitor visa

Step 3: Give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)

Normally, you need to give biometrics. If your local visa application centre is not open due to COVID-19, there are temporary measures in place for biometrics.

Find out what to do for your biometrics

How we process your application

We’ll check your application to make sure you have all the documents you need.

If it’s incomplete, we’ll return your application without processing it.

If we approve your application, we’ll ask you to send us your passport.

Send us your passport (if we approve your application)

To get your visa, follow the instructions we’ll send to you.

Prepare for your travel to and arrival in Canada

You may need to bring with you documents you submitted with your visa application, or present additional documents to the border services officer on arrival in Canada.

Check the list of documents you may need

Thank you for your help!

You will not receive a reply. For enquiries,  contact us .

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Canada Extends Visa-Free Travel To 13 More Countries

On June 6, 2023, Canada Immigration Minister Sean Fraser, announced the addition of 13 new countries to the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program. Travelers from these newly-added countries who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid USA non-immigrant visa - can now apply for an eTA instead of a Canada Visitor Visa .

Sean Fraser quoted, “This exciting development means that more individuals from around the world can now embark on unforgettable adventures, explore our diverse landscapes, reunite with family and friends, and immerse themselves in our vibrant culture without the hurdle of visa requirements. This expansion not only enhances convenience for travelers, but it will also increase travel, tourism, and economic benefits, as well as strengthen global bonds with these 13 countries.”

Calculate Your CRS Score in 60 Seconds

There are currently more than 50 countries that can enter Canada without a visa. Effective June 06, 2023, eligible travelers from the following countries will also benefit from the program:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

A Faster, Easier, and More Affordable Process

Canada is a destination of choice for people looking to visit, do business, or reunite with family and friends. The Canadian government is committed to improving immigration programs and services by making them more efficient and equitable for people around the world.

Introducing visa-free air travel will benefit thousands of travelers who immigrate to Canada for up to six months for either business or leisure. This new program will also help grow the Canadian economy by facilitating more travel, tourism, and international business - and strengthening Canada’s relationship with these 13 countries.

Source: canada.ca

Tags: Canada Extends Visa-Free Travel enter Canada without a visa Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program canada tourist visa Canada Visit Visa travel to Canada looking to visit in Canada Canada immigration news

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List of Visa-Free countries to Canada

The Canadian government has recently made an exciting announcement that is set to impact travelers around the world positively. In a move aimed at facilitating easier travel and promoting international connections, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced visa-free travel for citizens of select countries.

This groundbreaking update opens up new possibilities for individuals wishing to explore the beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse culture that Canada has to offer. Let’s delve into the details of this remarkable announcement.

Eligible countries for Visa-Free Travel to Canada

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has expanded the list of countries eligible for visa-free travel by adding 13 new nations.

The newly added countries that now qualify for visa-free travel to Canada include Panama, Antigua and Barbados in the Caribbean, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Seychelles, Thailand, and the Philippines.

Effective immediately, individuals from these countries who have previously held a Canadian visa within the last decade or who currently possess a valid non-immigrant visa for the United States will be able to apply for an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of a visa when visiting Canada. This new provision simplifies the travel process and offers greater convenience for eligible travelers.

Can I Travel to Canada without a visa?

Yes, depending on your nationality and eligibility, it is possible to travel to Canada without a visa. Canada has introduced visa-free travel for citizens of certain countries, allowing them to visit for tourism, business, or family visits without the need to obtain a visa.

However, it is important to note that even if you are eligible for visa-free travel, you may still be required to obtain an El ectronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if you are a visa-exempt foreign national flying to Canada.

For more Canadian visa inquiries? Click here to start the process with our help →

What are the Visa-Free countries that can travel to Canada?

The list comprises Panama, the Caribbean island states of Antigua and Barbados, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Seychelles, Thailand, and the Philippines.

What are the Visa-Free countries for Canada?

Below is the full list of Visa-Free countries & nationals for Canada.

1) Andorra 34) Republic of Korea 2) Argentina 35) Latvia 3) Australia 36) Liechtenstein 4) Austria 37) Lithuania 5) Bahamas 38) Luxembourg 6) Barbados 39) Malta 7) Belgium 40) Mexico 8) British citizen 41) Monaco 9) British National (Overseas) 42) Morocco 10) British overseas citizen (re-admissible to the United Kingdom) 43) Netherlands 11) British overseas territory citizen with citizenship through birth, descent, naturalization, or registration in one of the British overseas territories of: ·       Anguilla ·       Bermuda ·       British Virgin Islands ·       Cayman Islands ·       Falkland Islands (Malvinas) ·       Gibraltar ·       Montserrat ·       Pitcairn Island ·       Saint Helena ·       Turks and Caicos Islands 44) New Zealand 12) British Subject with a right of abode in the United Kingdom 45) Norway 13) Brunei Darussalam 46) Panama 14) Bulgaria 47) Papua New Guinea 15) Caribbean island states of: ·       Antigua and Barbados ·       St. Kits and Nevis ·       St. Lucia ·       St. Vincent and the Grenadines ·       Trinidad & Tobago 48) Philippines 16)  Chile 49) Poland 17) Costa Rica 50) Portugal 18) Croatia 51) Romania ( electronic passport holders only ) 19) Cyprus 52) Samoa 20) Czech Republic 53) San Marino 21) Denmark 54) Seychelles 22) Estonia 55) Singapore 23) Finland 56) Slovakia 24) France 57) Slovenia 25) Germany 58) Solomon Islands 26) Greece 59) Spain 27) Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, must have a passport issued by Hong Kong SAR. 60) Sweden 28) Hungary 61) Switzerland 29) Iceland 62) Taiwan, must have an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number 30) Ireland 63) Thailand 31) Israel, must have a national Israeli passport 64) United Arab Emirates 32) Italy 65) Uruguay 33) Japan 66) Vatican City State, must have a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican

What is an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for Canada?

An electronic travel authorization (eTA) is a mandatory requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals who are flying to Canada. It is linked electronically to the traveler’s passport. The eTA remains valid for up to five years or until the expiration of the passport, whichever comes first. If an individual obtains a new passport, they will need to apply for a new eTA.

What is the cost of an eTA for Canada?

The cost of an eTA for Canada is $7 Canadian dollars per individual.

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35 VISA-FREE Countries for Canadian PR Holders [2024 Edition]

Updated: February 11, 2024 Leave a Comment

As a Canadian PR card holder, you can enjoy VISA-FREE travel to certain countries. As of 2024, there are 35 VISA-FREE countries for Canadian PR holders. This includes Mexico, countries in the Caribbean, Central America, Europe and Asia. 

In this article, you will learn which countries Canadian permanent residents can travel to without visa along with the duration of stay and entry requirements for those countries.

So without further due, let’s get started. 

Table of Contents

What are the visa-free countries for canadian pr holders in 2024.

The VISA-FREE countries for Canadian PR holders in 2024 are:

• Anguilla (British Territory) (90 days)
• Antigua and Barbuda (30 days)
• Armenia (VOA for 21 or 120 days, select nationalities only)
• Aruba (30 days)
• Bahamas (30 days)
• Belize (30 days)
• Bermuda (British Territory) (30 days)
• Bonaire (Dutch Territory) (90 days)
• Cayman Islands (British Territory) (30 days)
• Costa Rica (30 days)
• Curaçao (90 days)
• Dominican Republic (90 days)
• El Salvador (90 days)
• Georgia (90 days)
• Guatemala (90 days)
• Honduras (90 days)
• Japan (eVisa, 90 days)
• Jordan (eVisa, 90 days)
• Mexico (180 days or less)
• Moldova (90 days)
• Montenegro (30 days)
• Morocco (eVisa, 90 days)
• Nicaragua (VOA, 30 days)
• Oman (VOA for 30 days, select nationalities only)
• Panama (30 days)
• Peru (180 days)
• Philippines (14 days, India only)
• Qatar (eVisa, 30 days)
• Singapore (96 hours TWOV, India and China only)
• Sint Maarten (30 days)
• South Korea (30 days while transiting, select nationalities only)
• Taiwan (eTA, 14 days, select nationalities only)
• Thailand (eVisa, 60 days)
• Turks and Caicos (British Territory) (90 days)
• United Kingdom (24-hour entry while transiting)

How many countries you can visit with Canadian PR?

In 2024, you can visit 35 countries with a Canadian PR without requiring a separate visa. Your Canadian permanent resident card must be valid and should be accompanied by a valid passport from your country. Here are the requirements in short.

• Must hold a valid Canada Permanent Resident card
• Must hold a valid passport from your country of nationality
• Must be from an eligible nationality and must follow entry requirements

Let’s look into each of these 35 Canadian PR VISA-FREE countries in detail.

North America

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
• Entry granted: Varies depending on the itinerary
• Entry rule: Canada PR card must be valid for the entire stay in Mexico
• Official source: National Institute of Migration in Mexico

Central America

• Entry granted: 30 days
• Official source: Consulate of Belize in Alberta, Canada

03. Costa Rica

• Entry rule: Canada PR cards must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Embassy of Costa Rica in Ottawa, Canada

04. El Salvador

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Turkmenistan
• Entry granted: 90 days total in the entire CA-4 zone (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua)
• If entering by air, a fee of 12 USD will be charged for a tourist card
• If you have already entered Guatemala or Honduras, you can enter El Salvador from Guatemala or Honduras by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement
• Official source: IATA Travel Centre

05. Guatemala

• Côte d´Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• Entry rule: If you have already entered Honduras or El Salvador, you can enter Guatemala from Honduras or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement. 
• Official source: Embassy of Guatemala in Ottawa, Canada

06. Honduras

• Cote d’Ivoire
• South Sudan
• Entry rule: If you have already entered Guatemala or El Salvador, you can enter Honduras from Guatemala or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement. 

07. Nicaragua

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Congo, Dem Rep of
• Congo, Rep of
• Sierra Leone
• Timor-Leste
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
• VOA fee is 50 USD, payable in USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Besides VOA fee, there is a 10 USD tourist card fee, a 2 USD land border migration fee (for land border only) and 1 USD municipality tax (for land border only) (payable in USD only)
• Canada PR must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Must show proof of economic solvency for a minimum of 500 USD
• Official source: Consulate of Panama in Toronto, Canada

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with a US visa in 2024

09. Anguilla (British Territory)

• Entry granted: 90 days
• Official Source: Anguilla Tourist Board, entry requirements

10. Antigua and Barbuda

• VOA fee is 100 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Department of Immigration, Antigua and Barbuda
• Official source: Netherlands Worldwide

12. Bahamas

• If traveling directly from Canada, the Canada PR card must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
• If not traveling directly from Canada, the Canada PR card must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism

13. Bermuda (British Territory)

• Canada PR card must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
• Passport must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
• Official source: Government of Bermuda

14. Bonaire (Dutch Territory)

15. cayman islands (british territory).

• Entry rule: On arrival, you must present a return ticket back to Canada (not to a third country)
• Official source: Cayman Islands Customs and Border Controls

16. Curaçao

• E ntry granted: 90 days

17. Dominican Republic

• Entry rule: If arriving by land or sea, must purchase a Tourist Card on arrival for 20 USD. If arriving by air, the tourist card is included in the airfare. 
• Official source: Ministry of Tourism of Dominican Republic

18. Sint Maarten

19. turks and caicos (british territory).

• Official source: Ministry of Border Control of Turks and Caicos

RELATED: 43 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa in 2024

South America

• Entry granted: 180 days
• Entry rule: Canada PR must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival 
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru

21. Armenia

• Marshall Islands
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Entry granted: 21 or 120 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
• VOA fee is 3,000 AMD, valid for 21 days, single-entry (OR) 15,000 AMD, valid for 120 days, single-entry
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia

22. Georgia

• Canada PR must be valid on the day of arrival in Georgia
• Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

23. Moldova

• São Tomé and Príncipe
• South Africa
• Entry rule: Canada PR must be valid for the intended period of stay
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova

24. Montenegro

• Official source: Government of Montenegro

25. United Kingdom

• Entry granted: 24 hours only (Transit Without Visa)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to request a 24-hour entry at London (LHR) or Manchester (MAN) airports
• You must be traveling to or from Canada
• Must arrive and depart by air 
• Must hold the boarding pass for the onward flight
• Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or the next day before midnight)
• Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
• Official source: GOV.UK

RELATED: 53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Schengen visa in 2024

Middle East

• Congo, Dem. Rep. Of
• Guinea Bissau
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for Jordan E-Visa
• Official source: Jordan E-Visa
• El Salvador
• Entry granted: 10 or 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Oman 26M or 26N Tourist Visa online
• 26M eVIsa fee is 20 OMR, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• 26N eVIsa fee is 5 OMR, valid for 10 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Sultanate of Oman, Royal Oman Police
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for A3 Visa online on the Hayya portal
• A3 Visa fee is QAR 100, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Must provide hotel booking for the entire stay reserved through the Discover Qatar website
• Canada PR must be valid on the day of the A3 Visa application

29. Morocco

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Morocco e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is 770 MAD, valid for 180 days, single-entry only
• Canada PR permit must be valid for at least 90 days from the day of arrival
• Official source: Morocco E-Visa Portal
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible for Japan eVisa
• eVisa fee is JPY 3,000, valid for 90 days, single-entry
• Must submit proof of residence to prove that you reside in Canada
• Must show the visa issuance confirmation via the eVisa website on your phone at the immigration (Prints and PDFs are not accepted)
• Must enter Japan by flight only
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

31. Philippines

• Eligible nationalities: India passport holders only
• Entry granted: 14 days, extendable for another 7 days
• Canada PR must be valid for the entire duration of the stay
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure
• Official source: Embassy of the Philippines in India

32. Singapore

• Entry granted: 96 hours (4 days)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) upon arrival
• Must be traveling to or from the country of passport. Example: Must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore or traveling to India from a third country via Singapore. An example itinerary would be India-Singapore-Bali or Bali-Singapore-India.
• Both arriving and departing flights in Singapore must be on the same itinerary
• Canada PR must be valid for at least 1 month at the time of arrival
• Official source: Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

33. South Korea

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities (except these 23 nationalities – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameron, Cuba, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen)
• Entry rule: Must be traveling to/from Canada through South Korea
• Official source: South Korea Embassy in Washington DC, USA
• Entry granted: 14 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for ROC Travel Authorization Certificate  
• ROC Travel Authorization Certificate is free of charge, valid for 90 days, multiple-entry
• If using an EXPIRED Canada PR card, the PR card must have expired within the last 10 years
• Official source: Bureau of Consular Affairs of Republic of China (Taiwan)

35. Thailand

• Entry granted: 60 days, extendable for another 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Thailand e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is 40 USD, valid for 90 days or 180 days, single or multiple-entry
• Official source: Thai E-Visa Portal

RELATED: 18 countries you can visit VISA-FREE with an Australian visa or PR in 2024

Can you use a Canadian visa to travel to these countries?

Yes, you can also use a valid Canadian visa to travel to these countries. However, the eligibility and entry requirements vary depending on what Canadian visa you hold. Refer to my article on VISA-FREE countries for Canada visa for more details. 

There you go, folks! 35 countries and territories that a Canadian PR holder can visit in 2024. Though most of them are Visa-Free, some countries require you to obtain VOA at the airport or apply for an eVisa before your travel.

Change history:  For those who are interested, here are the changes to this list.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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10 frequently asked questions by visitors to Canada

Recent changes to visitor visa requirements for some Mexican nationals may leave some foreign nationals looking to visit Canada with questions about their own situation.

To assist, CIC News has compiled a list of frequently asked questions that may be helpful to review before expending the time, energy and money necessary to come to Canada.

How long can I stay in Canada as a visitor?

In most cases, visitors to Canada can remain in the country for six months from the day they enter Canada (or until their passport expires, whichever comes first). The date by which a visitor must leave Canada will be indicated by a stamp in their passport and/or a document provided to them by a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer.

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

Visitors who would like to remain in Canada beyond their initially authorized stay can apply for an extension (more on this later).

What is the difference between a single and a multiple-entry visa?

As indicated by the name of the visa, single-entry visas permit the holder to enter Canada one time only, while a multiple-entry visa allows repeated entry to Canada so long as the visa remains valid.

Note: All visitor visa applicants are automatically considered for a multiple-entry visa but Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reviews each application separately and issues every visitor a visa accordingly.

IRCC clarifies that single-entry visa recipients will require a new visa to enter Canada once they have left, unless they are travelling directly to either the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon.

Meanwhile, multiple-entry visas are valid for the shorter of the following two periods: 10 years or one month before the expiration of the visa holder’s passport. Every entry to Canada using a multiple-entry visa allows the visa holder to remain in Canada for up to six months at a time.

Can I fill out one visa application for my whole family if we are travelling together?

No. While all visitor visa applications for one group of family members may be submitted in the same envelope (alongside one payment receipt accounting for the total fee of all applications), everyone must complete and sign their own visitor visa application.

This rule also applies to any other required forms, excluding the Family Information form, which must only be completed by applicants 18 years or older.

Note: Parents and guardians can help their children fill out their form(s), and every visitor visa applicant under the age of 18 must have their document(s) signed by a parent/guardian.

Is there any way I can help a friend or family member visit Canada?

Although your friends and family members must complete their own visa applications, a letter of invitation is a document you can submit to help a loved one come to Canada.

It should be noted that this document, which details how you may help the visa applicant (ex. offering to pay for accommodation), can help but does not guarantee the applicant will be approved for their visitor visa.

Do I need a medical exam to get a visitor visa?

This depends on the visitor’s length of stay in Canada.

In most cases, visitors in Canada for six months or less do not require a medical exam unless they will be working in a job where the “protection of public health is essential.” The list of jobs under this requirement is available here .

The above public health protection condition also applies to visitors who will be in Canada for longer than six months. In addition, visitors in Canada for six months or longer will need a medical exam if they meet either of the following two requirements:

• The applicant has been, for six or more consecutive months, living or residing in a designated country or territory *
• The applicant is applying for a Parent and Grandparent Super Visa

*This applies to all visitors, even those who are citizens of visa-exempt countries, who have been in any of the eligible countries “in the one year immediately preceding the date [the visitor] sought entry into Canada.”

Is a visitor visa the same thing as a visitor record?

No. A visitor visa is required by foreign nationals looking to travel and enter Canada as a visitor (in most cases, for up to six months).

Conversely, a visitor record is provided by CBSA officers to either extend or restrict the recipient’s stay in Canada. This type of document may also be given to foreign nationals, by either CBSA or IRCC, after their application to extend their stay or restore their status in Canada is approved.

Click here for additional details regarding the difference between a visitor visa and a visitor record.

I got a new passport but I have a valid visa in my old one. Can I use the visa in my old passport?

IRCC notes that it is possible to travel to Canada using a valid visitor visa placed in an old passport. However, travellers in this situation must bring both of the following documents with them to Canada:

• The old passport with the valid visa*
• The new valid passport or travel document

*Travellers may need to explain to CBSA officers why their old passport is no longer valid

Note: To avoid processing delays at the Canadian border, IRCC recommends that all visitors to Canada obtain a new visitor visa in their new, valid passport.

How can I extend my stay as a visitor?

Extending your stay in Canada requires that you submit biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph) and apply for a visitor record. This document allows visitors to Canada three options to extend their stay in the country:

• As a visitor
• As a worker authorized to work in Canada without a work permit
• As a student authorized to study in Canada without a study permit

The steps to applying for a visitor record online can be found on this IRCC webpage .

Can I file an appeal if my visitor visa is denied?

There is no appeal process for a visitor visa application from IRCC.

When an applicant is denied a visitor visa to enter Canada, they may re-apply, but IRCC recommends that they only do so if their situation has changed, or they have new information to submit that may alter the outcome of their application.

Do I need a visa if I’m just travelling through Canada on my way to another country?

Documentation for those transiting through Canada depends on an indvidual’s unique situation.

Generally, travellers can be broken down into two categories: visa-required travellers (from a visa-required country ) and visa-exempt travellers (from a country that requires an electronic Travel Authorization , eTA).

Some visa-required travellers need a visitor visa. This applies to travellers who are:

• Visiting Canada (even if travelling by air and the traveller is in Canada for less than 48 hours)
• Staying in Canada for more than 48 hours while transiting through the country to another destination
• Crossing the Canadian border via any of the following five modes of transportation: bus, car, train, boat or cruise ship

Other visa-required travellers may only require a transit visa. This applies to travellers who:

• Have an international flight that stops at a Canadian airport on the way to another country
• Will be connecting between two international flights at a Canadian airport
• Will be transiting through Canada in 48 hours or less
• Do not have a valid visitor visa

Visa-exempt travellers need an eTA to transit through Canada by air. Travellers transiting through Canada by train, bus, boat or cruise ship are not required to obtain an eTA, but must still bring with them the correct travel documents .

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Any time limit to travel Canada after the visit visa approval ?

• Thread starter HarinLeo
• Start date Wednesday at 11:10 PM

Star Member

Hello Guys, My cousin got visit visa approval in Oct 2023 and its multiple visa for 10 years. My question is that is there any time limit that he should travel within specific time limits like within six months or any time due? Kindly advise me. Thank You  

There's no time limit for when to enter the country on a visit visa. He can travel anytime so long as the visa is still valid. The Only limit is on how long he can stay for each visit.  

How do I get a visa for China?

Oct 14, 2021 • 6 min read

The first step towards walking along the Great Wall is getting a visa for China © Hung Chung Chih / Shutterstock

Stretching from the steppes of Central Asia and Mongolia to the tropical jungles of Laos and Vietnam, China is a land of endless travel opportunities. Though the country shut up tight after the world’s first COVID-19 lockdown in Wuhan in January 2020, China is making fast progress towards its 85% vaccination target and international tourism is expected to resume by 2022.

Here is everything you need to know about obtaining a tourist visa for China, based on the requirements in place before the pandemic, which are likely to remain when China reopens to international tourists. Always check the latest regulations with the Chinese authorities before you travel.

Who Needs a Chinese Tourist Visa?

The majority of foreign nationals require a tourist visa (also known as an "L visa") to enter and visit mainland China, though a few nationalities are granted visa-free entry. L visas are easy to obtain from Chinese embassies and consulates around the world, though the visa application process in some countries has been outsourced to a local branch of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center – their website has a handy list of locations and other useful country-specific information. To avoid the tedious bureaucracy when applying in person, many people obtain a visa via a tour operator or visa agent.

Can I travel visa-free to China?

Holders of passports from a handful of countries can travel visa-free to mainland China for tourism or business purposes. Citizens of Brunei, Japan and Singapore get 15 days, citizens of the Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Ecuador, Fiji, Grenada, Qatar, Serbia, Seychelles, Tonga, and the United Arab Emirates get 30 days, citizens of Mauritius get 60 days, and citizens of Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and San Marino get 90 days.

Who can get a transit visa?

Visitors from 49 countries – including the US, Canada, UK, the EU, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, Brazil and Argentina – can spend up to 144 hours (6 days) transiting in China without a visa if they arrive by air, ship or train at selected Chinese cities. The list of cities includes Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guilin, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xiamen, Wuhan, Kunming and Qingdao, opening up some interesting quick trip opportunities.   To be eligible, travelers must hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after entry and proof of onward travel to a third country, or to Hong Kong or Macau . These visas start counting down at 12.01 am on the date following arrival and there are restrictions on where you can travel within each region. Check with your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate for the current list of eligible nationalities, entry points and specific movement areas.

What about Hong Kong and Macau?

Most nationalities do not require a tourist visa for stays of up to 90 days in either Hong Kong or Macau. British visitors to Hong Kong get 180 days, and South Africans get 30 days. To travel from here into China proper, a standard tourist visa is required. These are fairly easy to obtain via China Travel Service in Hong Kong.

Since May 2018, the Chinese resort island of Hainan has offered 30-day visa-free entry to citizens of 59 countries including the US, Canada, the EU, the UK, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore. You can’t leave Hainan island and travel to mainland China on this visa – if you want to roam deeper into China, you'll need a standard tourist visa.

How about Tibet?

To travel to Tibet by air, road or train, you'll need both a China tourist visa and a Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit. To obtain this mandatory travel document you must book a guide for your entire trip and pre-arrange private transport for trips outside Lhasa. No direct applications are accepted, which effectively means that Tibet can only be visited on an organized tour.

How to apply for a Chinese tourist visa

By far the most straightforward option is to apply in your home country. If your country of residence is different, the Chinese authorities may charge an extra processing fee for non-citizens. Either way, you’ll need to fill out a form giving a proposed itinerary for your trip (it’s advisable to never mention Xinjiang and Tibet in your application), plus a flight ticket, and proof of accommodation booked for your first night in China.

Some embassies require extra documentation, such as an invitation letter from a person or a company in China, bank statements, and documents proving your employment record. And your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the expiry date of your visa. 

Remember that it can be hard to obtain a Chinese tourist visa from an embassy or consulate outside your home country. Caravanistan publishes a useful list of which Chinese embassies accept applications from third-country citizens.

How much does a China tourist visa cost?

The cost of a Chinese tourist visa varies depending on the type of visa, the length of stay, the number of entries allowed, and your nationality. Most tourists pay around US$35 for a single entry visa valid for 30 days from the day you enter China. Reflecting frosty relations between China and some foreign governments, UK citizens pay £151, US citizens pay US$140, Canadian citizens pay C$142, Australian citizens pay A$109 and French, German, Italian, Dutch and Spanish citizens pay €126.

Some nationalities are entitled to long-term multiple-entry visas that allow travelers to visit China for stints of 30 to 120 days throughout the duration of the visa. Note these are not residence permits and do not grant any right to live or work in China. Citizens of the US, Canada, Argentina and Israel can obtain tourist visas with a validity of up to ten years, Brazilians and South Africans are eligible for tourist visas valid for up to five years, while citizens of the UK can get tourist visas lasting two years. Contact your local Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest fees for long-term visas.

How long is a Chinese visa valid for?

Regular China tourist visas are valid for 30 days and must be used within three (or six, if double-entry) months of their date of issue. Never overstay your visa: the fine is ¥500 a day, with the possibility of being deported and banned from re-entering China for the next five years. If you think you'll need to stay longer, start the process of applying for a visa extension well before your visa expires.

Can I extend my Chinese visa?

Chinese visas can be extended once without too much difficulty at the Public Security Bureau (PSB) offices found in larger Chinese towns and cities, though an extension is not guaranteed. The process takes between 2 and 7 working days, the fee is ¥160 (or ¥760/500 for US/UK citizens). You can only extend your stay for as long as the duration of your original visa. You’ll need to provide your original passport, two photos and a receipt from your accommodation in the town where you are applying for your extension.

Because of the complicated permit system, extending your stay in Tibet is impossible, and Xinjiang, Beijing and Shanghai can also be tricky places to extend a standard tourist visa. The Caravanistan website has some useful visa extension reports from travelers. A second extension is harder to get, and a third extension is extremely unlikely.

You may also like: The best time to visit China China’s most epic high-speed train journeys Where to see pandas in China

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• Credit Cards
• Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

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Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee In Canada For April 2024

Updated: Apr 10, 2024, 9:28am

Cash-back credit cards make tapping your plastic even more tempting, since they turn some of your everyday purchases into cash rewards. They do so by allowing cardholders to earn back a percentage of their eligible credit card spending, either as a deposit into their bank account or as a statement credit.

That all sounds well and good, but some of the best cash-back credit cards have a major catch: They come with an annual fee that ends up eating into your rewards. And while some of these earn enough cash back that they cancel out said fee, spending enough to cover (or even surpass) the fee can be a big commitment—especially if you’re not sure how much you’ll spend each year on the card in question.

If thinking about such a prospect gives you anxiety, there are cash-back cards that have no annual fee —meaning their rewards don’t come with a yearly cost, so it’s pure reward. These cards can be a way to earn cash back without any kind of barrier hindering your earning potential. Here are the best cash back credit cards with no annual fee in Canada.

Featured Partners

Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee in Canada for April 2024

Rogers red world elite® mastercard®, simplycash card from american express, cibc costco mastercard, triangle world elite mastercard, neo standard mastercard, tangerine money-back credit card, tangerine world mastercard, rbc cash back mastercard, simplii financial cash back visa, bmo cashback mastercard, here’s a summary of best cash back credit cards with no annual fee in canada for april 2024, methodology, what is cash back on a credit card, how to choose a no annual fee cash back credit card, how to apply for a cash back credit card with no annual fee, frequently asked questions (faqs).

• Best Credit Cards
• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Best Airport Lounge Access Credit Cards
• Best Cash Back Credit Cards
• Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit
• Best Aeroplan Credit Cards
• Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards
• Best Balance Transfer Credit cards

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

On TD’s Website

Welcome Bonus

Up to 85,000 Aeroplan points†

Regular APR (Purchases) / Regular APR (Cash Advances)

20.99% / 22.99%

American Express Cobalt® Card

On American Express’s Secure Website

Up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points

$155.88 ($12.99 per month)

Regular APR

MBNA True Line Mastercard

On MBNA’s Website

0% interest for 12 months on balance transfers within 90 days of account opening, with a 3% transfer fee

12.99%-19.99%

Best For U.S. Dollar Purchases

Regular APR (Purchases)

Not only do you get flat-rate cash back on all purchases, a great 3% cash back rate on all purchases made in U.S. dollars, airport lounge access and five types of insurance, you get all that for no annual fee.

• No annual fee
• Earn 2% cash back on all purchases if you have one qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
• Earn 1.5% cash back if you do not have a qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
• Earn 3% cash back on U.S. dollar purchases
• Complimentary membership to Mastercard Travel Pass provided by Dragon Pass
• Includes some travel insurance coverage
• High income requirements to qualify
• The highest cash-back rate is for U.S. purchases only
• Airport lounge visits cost $32 USD per person, per visit, on top of the complimentary lounge access membership
• 2% unlimited cash back (exclusively for eligible Rogers, Fido or Shaw customers); otherwise, earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on non-U.S. dollar purchases
• 3% unlimited cash back on U.S. dollar purchases
• 5 Roam Like Home days at no cost with an eligible Rogers mobile plan (up to $75 value)
• 50% more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
• Annual income requirements of $80,000 personal and $150,000 household
• Complimentary membership to Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass with access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide at a cost of $32 USD per person, per visit
• Included insurance benefits: Extended Warranty and Purchase Protection, Rental Car Collision/Damage, Out-of-Province/Out-of-Country Emergency Medical, Trip Interruption and Trip Cancellation

best for groceries and gas

Up to $100 in statement credits

This card offers a 2% rate on the two areas hardest hit by inflation in Canada: groceries and gas. The icing on the cake is that it comes with no annual fee, a slightly above average 1.25% base rate and even has some other perks like a little travel insurance.

Learn more: Read our SimplyCash Card from American Express Review

• 2% cash back on groceries and gas
• Includes consumer insurance and some travel insurance
• American Express is not accepted at some retailers
• In your first 10 months as a new SimplyCash® Card from American Express Cardmember, you can earn a $10 statement credit for each monthly billing period in which you spend $300 in purchases on your Card. This could add up to $100 in statement credits in the first 10 months
• Earn accelerated earn rates on eligible gas and grocery purchases
• Earn 2% cash back on eligible gas purchases in Canada, 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually)
• Earn 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases
• Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with American Express® Experiences
• Insurance coverage and 24/7 Customer Service
• American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply

best for restaurants and costco

$0 (requires a Costco membership)

If you’re a Costco member, this card racks up cash back as your stock up on winter essentials. With no annual fee (aside from your Costco membership, of course) there’s no commitment and you can reap oversized rewards at this major retailer.

Learn more: Read our CIBC Costco Mastercard Review

• Earns 3% cash back on restaurants and at Costco Gas
• Includes mobile device insurance, purchase security and an extended warranty
• No welcome bonus
• Only offers 1% cash back at Costco (the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card earns 2%, for instance)
• Earns 3% cash back at restaurants and at Costco Gas
• Earns 2% at other gas stations and on Costco.ca
• Earns 1% cash back on all other purchases (including at Costco brick and mortar stores)
• Your rewards could add up to $367.62 a year in rewards value (or $422.58 with Costco purchases), according to Forbes Advisors calculations based on average spending among Canadians
• Comes with valuable mobile device insurance
• Includes purchase security and extended warranty insurance

Best For Roadside Assistance

This card has no annual fee, yet it earns Canadian Tire Money on your spending and offers a Gold Roadside Assistance plan with up to 250 km towing distance in Canada or the U.S, as well as emergency fuel delivery, battery boosts, accident assistance, flat tire changing and lock-out service.

• High cash back rewards at Canadian Tire
• Built-in car rental insurance
• Complimentary roadside assistance
• Only grants cash-back rewards from specific store chains
• Only gives digital Canadian Tire Money as cash-back rewards
• Gives 4% back in Canadian Tire Money on qualifying pre-tax purchases at Canadian Tire, Sport Chek, Mark’s/L’Équipeur, Atmosphere, Party City, Sports Rousseau, Hockey Experts, L’Entrepôt du Hockey, and participating Sports Experts stores
• Gives 3% Canadian Tire money on groceries up to $12,000 per year (does not include Walmart or Costco)
• Gives 0.5% per litre in Canadian Tire money at gas stations and on all other purchases
• Forbes Advisor estimates $327.64 in annual rewards value based on average Canadian spending
• Car rental collision/loss damage waiver insurance
• Extended warranty protection and return protection
• Roadside assistance with up to 250 km towing distance in Canada or the U.S.
• Requires a minimum annual income of $80,000, or $150,000 in household income

best for retail shopping

Welcome bonus

Up to 15% cash back on the first purchase at a Neo retailer

This card’s earn rate and flexibility are impressive, as are its lack of any annual fee and its welcome bonus offer.

Learn more:  Read our Neo Standard Mastercard Review

• Average of 5% unlimited cash back at Neo partners
• The welcome bonus and cash back only applies to Neo partners
• Does not include travel insurance or other perks
• Welcome bonus of up to 15% cash back on your first purchase at a Neo retail partner. The exact amount depends on what the partner is willing to offer
• Average of 5% instant and unlimited cash back at over 10,000 Neo partners
• Forbes Advisor estimates $577.22 in annual cash back based on average Canadian spending

best for customizable cash back

10% cash back ($100 value)

This card is unique in that it allows you to customize where you earn the most cash back. Users can choose two of 10 spending categories that will earn 2% cash back (without limits) and get 0.5% on everything else. If you opt to deposit your cash-back rewards into a Tangerine Savings Account, you get to add a third category that earns 2% cash back as well.

That said, it is a bit sparing when it comes to other perks, but if you meet the income requirements for its high-end counterparts, the Tangerine Money-Back World Mastercard, you can get a few more frills, like travel perks, rental car collision loss/damage insurance and mobile device insurance.

Learn more:  Read our Tangerine Money-Back Card Review

• Welcome bonus of 10% cash back on up to $1,000 in purchases in your first two months ($100 value) when you apply by April 30, 2024
• Earns 2% back in two spending categories of your choosing
• Get 2% cash back in a third category when you deposit your savings into a Tangerine Savings Account
• Cash back is unlimited and paid monthly
• Includes extended warranty and purchase protection
• No additional perks, aside from extended warranty and purchase protection
• Welcome bonus of 10% cash back on up to $1,000 in purchases in your first two months ($100 value) when you apply by January 31, 2024
• 2% cash back in two spending categories of your choice, including grocery, furniture, restaurants, hotel or motel stays, gas, recurring bill payments, drug store, home improvement, entertainment, public transportation and parking
• Earn 2% cash back in a third category of your choice when you opt to deposit cash-back rewards into a Tangerine Savings Account
• 0.5% cash back on all other spending with no limit
• Forbes Advisor estimates based on average Canadian spending that you can earn $302.69 in cash back per year by using this card
• Balance transfers made in your first 30 days get a 1.95% interest rate on the transferred balance for six months

best for travel perks

The Tangerine World Mastercard is similar to the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card in that cardholders can choose two of 10 spending categories that will earn 2% cash back (without limits) and get 0.5% on everything else. They can also add a third category if they deposit cash back into a Tangerine Savings Account. The only real difference is that the World Mastercard gets you a few more frills, like travel perks, rental car collision loss/damage insurance and mobile device insurance.

• A customizable rewards program
• No annual spending cap for any categories
• Minimum income requirements
• Mediocre rewards for most purchases
• The welcome bonus offers an extra 10% cash back on up to $1,000 in purchases made within the first two months of owning the card when you apply by April 30, 2024.
• Earn 2% cash back in two spending categories of your choice, including groceries, furniture, restaurants, hotels, gas, recurring bill payments, drug stores, home improvement, entertainment, public transportation and parking
• If you deposit your rewards into a Tangerine Bank savings account, you get a third 2% cash-back spending category
• All other spending categories earn 0.5% cash back
• The card carries an estimated annual net earnings of $302.69 per year based on average Canadian spending
• The card requires an annual minimum income of $60,000 personal, $100,000 in household income or $250,000 or more in Tangerine Bank Savings Accounts or Investment Fund Accounts
• A balance transfer rate of 1.95% for six months
• Credit card balance protection
• Rental car insurance
• Cell phone insurance
• Airport lounge access provided by DragonPass
• Checked baggage insurance

best for groceries

This low-maintenance cash back card earns 2% on groceries and 1% on everything else, with no annual fee.

• Unlimited 1% cash back
• Cash-back rewards only apply to every $100 purchase
• $6,000 cap on 2% earn rate
• 2% cash back for every $100 grocery store purchase (up to $6,000)
• 5% cash back for every $100 on qualifying purchases, up to $6,000 (1% cash back applies after)
• Forbes Advisor estimates a rewards value of $338.51 in annual earnings, based on average Canadian spending, with the annual fee factored in

best for restaurants, bars and coffee shops

Up to 20% cash back† ($100 value)

Interest Rate (Purchases) / Interest Rate (Cash Advances)

20.99% / 22.99%‡

This card gives you great cash back at bars and restaurants with no annual fee.

Learn more:  Read our  Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa Review

• 4% cash back at bars and restaurants
• $15,000 in minimum household annual income
• A low selection of insurance options
• Low base rate cash back
• Get 20% cashback in your first 3 months on eligible gas, groceries, drugstore purchases and pre-authorized payments (up to $500 spend)†
• Get a 20.99% interest rate on purchases‡
• Get a 22.99% interest rate on cash advances ‡
• Earn 4% cash back at bars, coffee shops and restaurants up to $5,000 annually, after that 0.5% unlimited†
• Earn 1.5% on eligible gas, groceries, and drugstore purchases, as well as pre-authorized payments up to $15,000 per year, after that 0.5% unlimited†
• Earn 0.5% on all other purchases†
• Purchase security and extended protection insurance are included†
• †Terms and conditions apply. Click ‘Apply Now’ for complete details. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.”
• ‡ “Purchase” means any Transaction other than a Cash Advance, Balance Transfer or Convenience Cheque. “Cash” means a Cash Advance, Balance Transfer and Convenience Cheque. Interest rates may change from time to time.

best for balance transfers

5% cash back

A basic no-fee cash back card that offers high returns on groceries and has a competitive welcome bonus and balance transfer offer. It even offers discounts on Cirque du Soleil shows.

• Balance transfer offer of 0.99% for 9 months with a 2% transfer fee
• Flexible redemption options
• No minimum income requirement
• Low spending caps
• 0.5% base earn rate
• Welcome offers of 5% cash back on $2,500 in total purchases for three months and 0.99% interest on balance transfers with a 2% fee for nine months
• 3% cash back at eligible grocery stores (up to $500 monthly)
• 1% cash back on recurring bills (up to $500 monthly)
• 0.5% cash back on every other purchase
• Forbes Advisor estimates a rewards value of $289.24 in annual earnings based on average Canadian spending, with the annual fee factored in
• 15% off Cirque du Soleil shows in Canada and 20% off shows in Las Vegas
• Up to 25% off rentals at National Car Rental and Alamo Rent a Car participating locations

When determining a rating for individual credit cards, the Forbes Advisor Canada editorial team factors in an exhaustive list of data points. With no-annual-fee cash back, the scoring model used takes into account factors such as, but not limited to, cash-back rates and categories, fees, welcome bonuses, and other rewards and features. Keep in mind, what may be best for some people might not be right for you. Conduct informed research before deciding which cards will best help you achieve your financial goals.

It offers 3% for purchases made in American dollars.

Rewards: Earn unlimited 2% cash back (exclusively for eligible Rogers, Fido or Shaw customers) on non-U.S. dollar purchases, otherwise earn 1.5% unlimited cash back. Earn unlimited 3% cash back on U.S. dollar purchases.

Welcome Offer: N/A

Annual Fee: $0

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: With this card, you get access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, extended warranty and purchase protection on select items, rental car collision/damage insurance, out-of-province/country emergency medical care and trip Interruption and cancellation insurance. A drawback: To qualify, your annual personal income must be over $80,000, or your household income over $150,000.

———————————————————————————-

This American Express card is the only Canadian card offering 1.25% cash back on everything—and 2% on groceries and gas, up to a limit of $300 per year.

Rewards: Get 2% cash back on gas and groceries up to $300 cash back annually, and 1.25% cash back for everything else with no limit.

Welcome Offer: In your first 10 months with the card, you can earn a $10 statement credit for each monthly billing period when you spend $300 on your card, which could add up to a total of $100.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: The card’s benefits include $100,000 travel accident insurance, automatic extended warranty on select purchases made with the card, 24/7 customer service, a fraud protection guarantee and emergency card replacement. One drawback is that American Express still isn’t as widely accepted as Visa and Mastercard .

Related: SimplyCash Card from American Express Review

This card earns you 3% cash back at restaurants and Costco gas stations, 2% at other gas stations and when you shop at Costco.ca and 1% everywhere else.

Rewards: Earn 3% cash back when you dine out at selected restaurants and fill-up at Costco gas stations on the first $5,000 net annual card purchases. You’ll earn 2% at other gas stations and Costco.ca until you hit $8,000 in purchases when it will revert back to the base rate of 1% on all other purchases.

Welcome Offer: None.

Annual Fee:  $0

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: This card offers up to $1,000 in repair or replacement coverage for your phone for up to two years, as well as purchase security and extended warranty insurance for some new items purchased with your card.

Related: CIBC Costco Mastercard Review

This card gives you 4% back in Canadian Tire (CT) Money on select items at a range of retailers beyond CT, five to seven cents  per  litre in CT Money on fuel, and 3% back in CT Money when you buy groceries.

Rewards: Earn 4% cash back in CT Money on select items at retailers including Canadian Tire, Sport Chek, Mark’s and Party City. Also, earn five to seven cents when you pump gas, 3% at grocery stores on the first $12,000 you spend per year (excluding Costco and Walmart) and 1% in CT Money everywhere else.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: With this card, you get roadside assistance , purchase security, extended warranty and rental car insurance . But the cash-back earnings are in CT Money, making this only a card for those who frequent the home improvement store.

This card earns you up to 15% cash back on the first purchase from a Neo retail partner, then an average of 5% cash back at Neo partner locations.

Rewards: Collect an average of 5% cash back when shopping at Neo partner locations and an extra 0.5% cash back when you meet a minimum spending requirement (until you reach $50 in earnings).

Welcome Offer: Earn up to 15% cash back on the first purchase from a Neo retail partner.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: With this card, you can choose one or multiple rewards packages for boosted cash back and app subscriptions, but it doesn’t come with any basic insurance or other benefits.

Related: Neo Standard Mastercard Review

This card offers unlimited 2% cash back in two or three purchase categories of your choice and 0.50% cash back on all eligible everyday purchases.

Rewards: Get unlimited 2% cash back in up to three categories of your choice (like groceries , gas and entertainment) and 0.50% cash back on all everyday purchases. Plus, get extra rewards when your earnings are deposited into your Tangerine Savings Account.

Welcome Offer: Receive an extra 10% cash back on up to $1,000 worth of everyday purchases made in the first two months of owning the card.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: While this card is unique, in that it allows you to choose your cash back categories, it does not offer any additional perks like travel insurance .

Related: Tangerine Money-Back Card Review

Like the above card, this one offers unlimited 2% cash back in two or three categories of your choice and 0.50% cash back on all everyday purchases with a few Mastercard network benefits thrown in.

Rewards: Get unlimited 2% cash back in up to three categories of your choice (like groceries, gas and entertainment) and 0.50% cash back on eligible everyday purchases. Plus, get extra rewards when your cash-back earnings are deposited into your Tangerine Savings Account.

Welcome Offer: Be rewarded with an extra 10% cash back on up to $1,000 worth of everyday purchases made in the first two months of owning the card.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Unlike Tangerine’s Money-Back Card, this one offers rewards when travelling outside Canada, access to select airport lounges for a fee and special offers for on-demand and subscription services. However, to apply, your annual personal income must be $80,000 or $150,000 per household.

Collect up to 2% cash back on groceries and unlimited 1% cash back on everything else.

Rewards: Earn 2% cash back on every $100 you spend at grocery stores, up to a maximum reward of $120 per year or $6.000 in annual spend. After that spend threshold is crossed, get 1% cash back per $100 spent on in-store grocery purchases with no spending limit. Also earn an unlimited 0.5% cash back on all purchases other than those at the grocery store, including recurring bill payments, until a maximum of $6,000 net purchases is made for a maximum reward of $30 per year., After the $6,000 limit is reached on all purchases outside of groceries, earn an unlimited 1% on all non-grocery purchases after that.

Welcome Offer: None

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Get  purchase security, extended warranty protection and special discounts and offers at Petro-Canada, Rexall and DoorDash for no annual fee. However, the low earn rates on this card and restrictive $6,000 spending limits on those rates ensure you won’t be earning a lucrative cash back return with this card.

This card earns a whopping 4% cash back at restaurants, bars and cafes—making it a great card for any foodie to have in their wallet.

Rewards: Earn 1.5% cash back on eligible gas, groceries, drugstore purchases and pre-authorized payments for an annual cash-back earnings maximum of $150.

Welcome Offer: Be rewarded with 20% cash back on eligible gas, groceries and drugstore purchases and any pre-authorized payments, during your first three months, up to a $500 spend ($100 value).

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Get purchase security and extended protection insurance with this card, but you can only cash in cash back at the end of the year, when it’s automatically applied to your December statement.

Related: Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa Review

The BMO CashBack Mastercard is an ideal choice for individuals that spend less than $500 on groceries and recurring bills every month.

Rewards: 3% cash back on groceries, 1% on monthly bills and 0.5% on other eligible purchases.

Welcome Offer: 5% cash back for the first three months and 0.99% interest on balance transfers for the first nine months.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: This card offers a pretty high earn rate on groceries—a major spending category. It also has a competitive balance transfer offer. That said, it has low spending caps and has little to offer in the way of other perks.

Some credit cards offer cash-back rewards, meaning cardholders can receive a small percentage of their purchases back in cash. For instance, if your card offers 4% cash back on groceries, and you spend $100 at the grocery store, you’d receive $4 in cash back. The cards act as a way to help you to “save” a little on everyday spending, while helping to pay off your credit card bill or fund your bank account (depending on how you redeem it).

Typically, cardholders can redeem their cash back earnings for a cash deposit in their bank account or a credit towards their monthly bill.In some instances, you can only redeem cash back once per year and it’s applied to your credit card statement automatically. Often, if you redeem as you go, you’ll have to earn a certain amount of cash back to redeem (like a $25 minimum) but some cash-back cards allow you to redeem smaller amounts.

Typically, cash back credit cards have a base earn rate—usually 0.5% to 1%—that applies across all eligible purchases.Often, they’ll allow you to earn more cash back—typically 1% to 4—in select purchase categories, like gas, groceries, restaurants or recurring bills. Some cards have a cap on how much of your spending is eligible. For example, you may get 2% cash back on gas transactions when you spend $500 or less filling up your tank each month, but after that, you’ll only earn the 1% base rate on gas purchases.

How Does Cash Back on a Credit Card Work?

Every time you use your cash back credit card, you earn back a percentage of your spending in cash, which accumulates in your cardholder account. You can typically see how much you’ve accumulated on your online bank account or mobile banking app. Some purchases you make will earn you a higher percentage of cash back rewards than others, depending on the card you have. It’s worth noting that your card may require you to accumulate a minimum amount of cash back before cashing in on the rewards. Once eligible to collect, you can get your rewards deposited into your bank account or credited towards your next monthly bill. You may also be able to get the cash back on a gift card.

What Does No Annual Fee on a Cash Back Credit Card Mean?

Some credit cards charge you an annual fee, which could be as low as $25 or over $500. With a no-annual-fee cash-back card, that fee doesn’t exist—but there may be other fees to consider. Foreign transaction fees, interest charges, balance transfer fees, and cash advance fees are all common with credit cards. Read your card agreement carefully to learn the details about fees so you can avoid those fees when possible.

Why Do Some Cash Back Credit Cards Have an Annual Fee?

Cash back credit cards that have an annual fee typically offer higher rewards rates, more attractive welcome bonuses , and/or other perks. Before selecting a card with an annual fee, carefully evaluate if its extra benefits justify the additional cost. If they don’t, there are many cash-back credit cards that don’t come with an annual fee that also offer fair rewards and perks.

Not every cash-back credit card with no annual fee is perfect for everyone. Since each card offers different perks based on purchasing habits, you’ll need to consider your lifestyle and find the credit card that best compliments it.

Forbes Advisor simply highlights the key facts about each credit card to make it easier for you to compare them and find the best one for you. It’s up to you to do the math and consider which one makes the most sense based on your spending history and plans. Here’s what you should consider:

• Fees: Do you often do balance transfers? Make purchases outside of Canada? You may want to consider a card with low balance transfer and FX fees .
• Annual percentage rate (APR): Will you be paying off your credit card in full every month? Credit card interest rates are often higher than other loans. The best card for you may be one with a low interest introductory APR offer.
• Earn rate: Do you drive a lot? Like to dine out? Consider yourself a frequent flyer? Choose a card that’ll give you the greatest percentage back in those areas.
• Bonus categories: If a card offers 5% on rotating categories (meaning you can swap out the categories from which you get a large percentage of cash back) but you don’t want to keep track of them, it’s probably not the card for you.
• Redemption and rewards: Is it easy to redeem your cash back? Is there a minimum or maximum redemption amount? Make sure you can get your rewards in the way that is ideal for you.
• Other perks: Does the card offer other perks you could benefit from? Some offer rental car insurance, built-in travel insurance, extended warranties and more that could help save you money.

Once you’ve read through all of the card details, found out how much you spend in different categories, and considered the bonus features that could be beneficial to you, you’re better equipped to make a well-informed decision.

Applying for a cash-back credit card with no annual fee is the same as applying for any other credit card. Once you find one that is right for you and you’re eligible for (meaning, your credit score and income requirements align), you can visit a bank to apply in-person or sign up by yourself online. No matter the option you choose, you’ll be asked to provide personal information, including your Social Insurance Number and financial details. Once finished, you could get approved instantly or you may have to wait for your application to be reviewed manually. Once approved, you’ll receive your card in a few days or weeks.

What are the benefits of a no annual fee cash back credit card?

The benefits of a no annual fee cash-back credit card depend on the card. Common benefits include:

• The ability to earn cash back with no annual fee
• Consumer protections like purchase protection and extended warranties
• Travel protections such as rental car insurance

Before choosing the right no annual fee cash back credit card for you, consider your lifestyle, spending habits and compare the offerings of all cards, including the earning rates, fees and other benefits.

How do I choose the best no annual fee cash back credit card for me?

To choose the best cash-back card with no annual fee, take a look at where you spend your money most—groceries, gas, entertainment, etc.—and find a card that offers the greatest cash back for those categories. Also take into account the extra benefits the card offers (such as rental car insurance) to discover if they could be of use for you, as well as its fees (like low FX fees) to decide if they could be an extra perk for your lifestyle.

How do I redeem my cash back rewards?

How you redeem your cash-back rewards will depend on the card you have. Each card has different rules that will dictate how you can use and manage your cash backs. For example, some cards have a minimum redemption amount, meaning you’ll have to wait until you accumulate a certain amount of points before you can retrieve your points, which again, will depend on the card. You can have the cash back deposited into your bank account and/or credited to your monthly bill. Sometimes, you can get them back on a gift card.

What are the drawbacks of a no annual fee cash back credit card?

By choosing a no-annual-fee cash-back credit card, you could miss out on larger amounts of cash back in the long run. That’s because credit cards that charge an annual fee have higher rates and more benefits. To determine if a card with an annual fee makes sense for you, estimate how much cash back you could earn—if it’s higher than the annual fee, it may be the right option.

But remember: Most cash-back cards charge high APRs—so if you don’t think you’ll pay off your card each month in full, you’ll pay a hefty sum in interest. In that case, a credit card or loan with a lower interest rate may be a better option.

How can I improve my chances of getting approved for a no annual fee cash back credit card?

If you want to improve your chances of getting approved for a no-annual-fee cash-back credit card, first check your credit score and report so you know where you stand. If you have a poor credit score, you may not get approved for the card you’re interested in. In that case, work on paying down existing debt to prove you’ll be able to pay off your card balance. You can also find out if you prequalify for a card, which means your credit score and financial profile matches its eligibility criteria.

Renée Reardin is a writer and editor with over a decade of experience in the lifestyle and wellness spaces. She's the former senior digital editor at Best Health magazine and Canadian Living magazine, where she handled content that covered everything from food and fitness to fashion and finance. She currently freelances for publications like Allure, Glossy, InStyle, The Toronto Star, and Teen Vogue.

Have a Japan visa? Here are six other countries you can visit visa-free

Travel on your mind?

Exploring the world is now easier for Indian passport holders holding a valid Japan visa. Here are six destinations you can visit visa-free

Philippines

Enjoy pristine white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs of the Philippines for a 14-day escapade with your valid Japan visa. Ensure you carry an Indian passport valid for at least six months beyond your departure date, along with a return or onward ticket.

Embark on a journey through the cobblestone streets and breathtaking landscapes of Georgia for up to 90 days, within any 180-day period, with a valid Japan visa and passport.

Experience beachside bliss and explore charming old towns in Montenegro, granting entry to holders of a valid Japan visa for up to 30 days. Verify specific requirements with your nearest embassy or consulate before planning your trip.

Take advantage of the Visa Free Transit Facility in Singapore, allowing Indian passport holders with a valid Japan visa to spend 96 hours in the country, provided their visa is valid for at least a month at the time of travel. Don't forget to carry an onward flight or ferry ticket departing within 96 hours.

For an enriching experience in Mexico, Indian passport holders with a valid multiple entry Japan visa may enjoy exemption from visa entry requirements and stay for up to 180 days. Ensure your passport has at least six months validity at the time of travel.

Explore the wonders of Taiwan multiple times within a 90-day period, for 14 days each time, with a Japan visa. Additional documents required include an approved ROC Travel Authorisation Certificate, a passport with minimum six months validity, proof of entering Japan, and a confirmed sea/air ticket for the next destination.

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