The Canada digital nomad visa is an excellent opportunity for remote workers to experience this country’s vast northern landscape. It allows people worldwide to live and work in Canada for up to six months. Although you can’t renew, it does open the possibility to switch to a work visa afterward.
This new visa program is meant to attract remote workers and freelancers. It lets you experience Canada’s beautiful landscapes, indigenous First Nations cultures, and multicultural influences.
However, understanding the requirements and visa application process is essential. So, we provide an accessible roadmap for you to follow.
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Canada Digital Nomad Visa
Visa Requirements & How to Apply
We aim to provide a quick but accurate synopsis of the Canada digital nomad visa requirements and steps. Please let us know if you notice any inaccuracies so we can correct them.
| Country: | Canada |
| Currency: | Canadian Dollar or CAD Important Note: We list all digital nomad visa costs and requirements below in US dollars or USD ($). |
| Visa Category: | Digital Nomad Visa Canada. Depending on the country you are from, you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a Temporary Residents Visa (TRV). American citizens are exempt from eTA or TRV requirements. No special work permit is required. |
| Visa Length: | 6 months |
| Renewable Visa? | No. But if you find work in Canada, you can switch to a work visa and remain inside the country. |
| Canada Digital Nomad Visa Cost: | An eTA fee of $5.00+) and a TRV fee of $168 |
| Income Requirements: | Not specified. It varies according to application details. |
| Tax Implications: | Tax-free on all foreign income (check your tax obligations with your home country). |
| Dependents Allowed? | Yes. A spouse or partner can apply for their permit, but it’s only available to people over 18. |
| Application Location Options: | Apply from your home country or from overseas. |
Canada Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
Requirements may vary but could include the following:
- A passport with a minimum of six months validity left
- Proof of remote work (letter from employer, work contract, pay stubs)
- Proof of income sufficient to cover living expenses (bank statements)
- Criminal record check (and fingerprint biometrics)
- A medical examination report
- Proof of medical insurance that covers you in Canada
- Intended place of residence in Canada
- Itinerary of your planned locations and activities in Canada
We use Genki, but read our article about travel insurance for digital nomads for even more options.
3 Canada Digital Nomad Visa Application Steps
- Visit Canada’s visitor portal to find out what kind of visa or travel authorization you need to visit Canada.
- If you require an eTA, follow the steps on the eTA application page. If you need a TRV, follow the steps on the Visitor Visa application page.
- Check back regularly to track the processing of your visa.
Pros and Cons of Being a Digital Nomad in Canada
Consider these pros and cons If you’re considering living and working in Canada as a digital nomad.
Benefits of Living in Canada
- Many activities for nature lovers
- High level of safety and personal freedoms
- Reliable, fast internet connection
- Good infrastructure
- Multicultural
Disadvantages of Living in Canada
- Very high cost of living
- Transportation between regions is limited and expensive
- Medical care is costly if you’re not part of the national healthcare plan
- Winters are often long and with temperatures below zero
Average Monthly Costs of Living in Canada (USD)
Vancouver and Toronto are the most expensive cities to live in, especially regarding housing costs.
Rental costs will vary by region, with Montreal, Calgary, and Edmonton being more moderately priced. Maritime provinces of Newfoundland and New Brunswick may be the most affordable.
| 1 Bedroom Apartment: | Vancouver and Toronto: $1665 Montreal: $1097 Calgary and Edmonton: $1240 Newfoundland and New Brunswick: $850 |
| Food: | $365 per adult |
| Utilities: | $109 |
| Data Plan: | $55 for a 10 GB data plan |
| Single Fare Public Transport: | $2.00 to $4.40 per adult |
8 Top Cities in Canada for Digital Nomads
- Metro Vancouver
- Toronto
- Montreal
- Calgary
- Ottawa
- Edmonton
- Halifax
- Victoria
5 Top Things To Do in Canada
Canada offers many things to do. With the Pacific Ocean on one end and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, it has numerous national parks, lakes, and islands.
There are also the vast and rugged Yukon and Northwest Territories and rich First Nation cultures to learn about. Here is just a tiny sampling of things to do in Canada:
- Rocky Mountains: Explore the rugged wilderness teeming with lakes and wildlife. Whether trekking, camping, or going up a cable car, you are guaranteed spectacular scenery. Banff, Jasper, Canmore, and the Kananaskis Valley are popular destinations.
- Northern Lights: Witness the breathtaking natural phenomenon dance across the sky in Northern Canada.
- Niagara Falls: Experience the 132 square miles (212 square kilometers) of majestic waterfalls set right on the border of Canada and the United States.
- Quebec City: Walk around this UNESCO site, one of Canada’s oldest cities. This picturesque European-style town sits above the banks of the St. Lawrence River.
- Participate in Outdoor Sports: There are year-round outdoor activities. From skiing and snowshoeing in winter to hiking, kayaking, and swimming in summer, you’ll find something that suits your tastes.
Canada Digital Nomad Visa Summary
The Canada digital nomad visa is a fantastic opportunity for remote workers. You can explore the country’s vast natural landscapes and indigenous and multicultural influences.
The application process involves several steps and requirements. However, it offers a clear path for digital nomads to live and work in Canada.
