Advice for Visitors to Canada
Australians Visiting Canada
Residents of certain countries need to obtain a temporary resident visa
before visiting Canada. Though Australian residents who hold a valid
passport do not need this document, they must obtain the appropriate
permit if they wish to work or study temporarily on Canadian soil. As well, all Australian visitors require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if arriving in Canada by plane (an eTA is not necessary if arriving by land or sea).
Australians Visiting Canada for Work
A work permit allows visitors from Australia to work in Canada for a specified
period of time. The first step in obtaining this permit is securing an
offer of employment from a Canadian employer, who may need to get a labour
market opinion in order to hire a foreign worker. It is advisable to wait
until such approval is rendered before leaving Australia or applying for
a work permit.
Candidates must duly complete and submit the designated application form and attach
all specified documentation required, including the offer of employment
and any professional letters of recommendation or references. They must
also provide ID photos, biometrics (photo and fingerprints) and pay the processing fee. Upon completion, the application is processed
and applicants are notified of their acceptance or rejection.
Australians Visiting Canada for School
In order to study in Canada for a period longer than six months, a study permit
is required. Once accepted to a recognized school in the country, an official letter of
acceptance will be forwarded to the applicant. Next, the future student must duly complete and submit the designated application form,
accompanied by their letter of acceptance and any bank statements detailing
their financial transactions for the last six months.
Working Holiday Visa Program
International Experience Canada (IEC) is valid for those between the age of 18 and 35 years, in both Canada and Australia. Individuals can participate only once in this program, and do so with the intention of learning about the culture, language and customs of the country. Australians visiting Canada under this program are granted an open work permit for a period of up to 24 months, which allows them to seek and obtain employment in the country during this time. Eligibility requirements include being a permanent resident of Australia.
Those wishing to take part in the IEC program must submit a completed
application and pay a participation fee.
Australians Visiting Relatives in Canada
Currently, visitors from Australia do not require an entry visa for stays of six months or less. However, Australian parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents are eligible to benefit from the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa provisions. Australians who wish to visit Canada for up to two years without the need to renew their authorized stay should consider applying for an extended authorized stay by proving that the requirements for the Super Visa are met. For more information, see the Super Visa.

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