How to Apply for Visa for Canada from UK: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re planning a trip, business venture, study program, or permanent relocation, applying for a visa for Canada from UK is the essential first step. This comprehensive guide is tailored for UK citizens, permanent residents, students, and workers who seek to explore opportunities in Canada—whether it’s to visit Niagara Falls, study at the University of Toronto, or start a new life in one of the world’s most immigrant-friendly countries.

Why Choose Canada?

Canada remains a top global destination for UK travelers and emigrants due to:

Who Needs a Visa for Canada from UK?

UK Citizens do not need a visa to enter Canada for short stays (up to six months), but they must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when flying into Canada.

However, if you plan to:

Work or study in Canada
Stay longer than 6 months
Apply for permanent residency
Move with family
Engage in business activities

You will need to apply for a specific type of visa for Canada from UK, depending on your purpose.

Types of Visa for Canada from UK

Here are the main categories of Canadian visas for UK applicants:

1. Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Who it’s for: UK passport holders visiting for tourism or business for up to 6 months.
Valid for: 5 years or until passport expires.
Processing time: Minutes to a few days.
Cost: CAD $7 (~£4).

Note: You must apply for an eTA before boarding your flight. Land and sea travel do not require eTA.

2. Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) / Visitor Visa

Who it’s for: Non-British residents in the UK or those who need a traditional visitor visa.
Valid for: Usually up to 6 months.
Purpose: Tourism, family visit, business meetings.
Cost: CAD $100 (~£60).
Biometrics: Required.

3. Study Permit

Who it’s for: Students accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
Duration: Length of program + 90 days.
Requirements:
- Letter of acceptance
- Proof of financial support
- Biometrics and medical exam
Cost: CAD $150 (~£90)

4. Work Permit

Types:
- Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA may be required)
- Open Work Permit (e.g., for spouses of international students)
Requirements:
- Job offer from a Canadian employer
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (if applicable)
- Proof of qualifications
Cost: CAD $155 (~£95)

5. Express Entry (Permanent Residency)

The most popular immigration pathway to Canada for skilled professionals from the UK.

Programs under Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
Points-Based System (CRS Score)
Processing time: As little as 6 months
Application fee: CAD $1,365 (~£835)

6. Family Sponsorship Visa

If you have a spouse, common-law partner, or parent in Canada who is a citizen or permanent resident, they can sponsor your visa for Canada from UK under family reunification.

Cost: CAD $1,080–$1,365 (~£650–£835)
Processing time: 12+ months

7. Business & Investor Visas

For UK entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals looking to invest or start a business in Canada.

Start-Up Visa Program: For innovative entrepreneurs backed by Canadian investors.
Self-Employed Visa: For cultural, athletic, or artistic professionals.

Requirements for a Visa for Canada from UK

While requirements vary by visa type, general documents include:

Valid UK passport
Completed application form
Recent passport-sized photos
Proof of funds
Medical exam (if applicable)
Biometrics (UK Visa Application Centre – VAC)
Police clearance certificate (for PR or long stays)

For student and work visas:

Letter of acceptance or job offer
Evidence of tuition or salary
Proof of ties to the UK

How to Apply for a Visa for Canada from UK

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Decide the purpose of your visit—tourism, study, work, or permanent migration. Each visa has different requirements.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

Visit the official Government of Canada Immigration and Citizenship website to use the “Come to Canada” tool. It helps you determine eligibility based on:

Nationality
Age
Language proficiency
Education and work experience
Family ties

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Common documents for a visa for Canada from UK include:

Valid UK passport (must be valid for the duration of your stay)
Proof of funds (bank statements, job letter, etc.)
Travel itinerary
Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)
Police certificate and medical exam (if applicable)
Biometrics (fingerprints and photo)

Step 4: Create an IRCC Account

Create an account on IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal to start your application online.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fees

Pay online using a valid credit or debit card. Fees vary based on visa type and biometric requirements.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Double-check your application and submit it through the IRCC online portal.

Step 7: Schedule Biometrics Appointment (If Required)

Visit the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in London or Manchester for biometrics collection.

Step 8: Wait for Processing

Processing times vary by visa type. You can check current estimates on the IRCC website.

Step 9: Get Your Passport Stamped

Once approved, submit your passport to receive your Canada visa sticker.

Processing Times for Visa for Canada from UK

Visa Type	Estimated Processing Time (2025)
eTA	Minutes to 72 hours
Visitor Visa (TRV)	25–45 days
Study Permit	6–10 weeks
Work Permit	8–12 weeks
Express Entry (PR)	6–8 months
Family Sponsorship	12–18 months

Note: Processing times may vary due to backlog or seasonal volume.

How Much Does a Visa for Canada from UK Cost?

Visa Type	Fee (CAD)	Approx. in GBP (£)
eTA	$7	£4
Visitor Visa (TRV)	$100	£60
Study Permit	$150	£90
Work Permit	$155	£95
Express Entry (PR)	$1,365	£835
Biometrics	$85	£50

Where to Submit Biometrics in the UK

You can submit your biometrics at Canada Visa Application Centres:

London: 66 Wilson Street, London EC2A 2BT
Manchester: 50 Devonshire Street North, M12 6JH

Important Tips for a Successful Application

Double-check all documents for accuracy and completeness.
Apply early – at least 3 months before intended travel.
Include proof of ties to the UK (job, family, property) to avoid refusals.
Consult a regulated Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC) for complex cases.
Avoid unauthorized agents. Always use the official IRCC website.

Final Note

Applying for a visa for Canada from UK can be a smooth and rewarding experience. Canada offers some of the most structured, transparent, and accessible immigration systems in the world. Whether you’re seeking adventure, education, career opportunities, or permanent settlement, there’s a visa stream tailored for you.

Always use official resources and start your application early to ensure a stress-free journey from the UK to Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do UK citizens need a visa to travel to Canada?

No visa is required for short visits (up to 6 months), but an eTA is mandatory for air travel.

2. Can I work in Canada with a UK passport?

Only if you obtain a work permit. UK passport alone does not grant work rights.

3. How long can I stay in Canada with a UK passport?

Up to 6 months as a visitor with an approved eTA.

4. Can I apply for permanent residence from the UK?

Yes, through Express Entry, Family Sponsorship, or Provincial Nominee Programs.

References

Canada Immigration & Citizenship –https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html

VFS Global UK – https://visa.vfsglobal.com/gbr/en/can/

https://www.gov.uk/world/travelling-to-canada