Thinking of taking a short trip to Canada? Whether you're visiting friends, exploring the country, or attending to work matters, Malaysian passport holders must apply for a visa before travelling.
If you hold a Malaysian passport, you’ll need to submit your visa application online through the official Canadian immigration website. The process isn’t too complicated, but it’s important to prepare all the required documents in advance. Before you depart, make sure you’re aware of how long you’re allowed to stay and which documents you need to bring.
This quick guide will help you plan a smooth, stress-free journey.
Do Malaysians Need a Visa to Visit Canada?
Yes. Malaysian passport holders need a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) to visit Canada (no eTA option). Apply before you travel; most applicants must give biometrics. This applies whether you arrive by air, land, or sea.
If you’re flying and you see references to an eTA online, that does not apply to Malaysians—only to passport holders from visa-exempt countries.
You can check the official requirement and start your application on IRCC’s site.
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Types of Canada Visa
Temporary Entry (short stays)
- Visitor Visa (TRV) — tourism, visiting family/friends, short business visits (up to ~6 months per entry).
- Super Visa (Parents/Grandparents) — multiple entries; stays up to 5 years at a time with private medical insurance.
- Transit Visa — for airside connections in Canada up to 48 hours (visa-required nationals).
- eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) — for visa-exempt flyers (not applicable to Malaysians, but included for completeness).
Study & Work (not “visas” but commonly required)
- Study Permit — to pursue full-time studies at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Work Permit – Employer-Specific — tied to one employer/position (often LMIA-based).
- Work Permit – Open — not job-specific (e.g., Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), spousal open work permits).
Business/Investment & Short-Term Business
- Business Visitor (uses Visitor Visa/TRV) — meetings, conferences, site visits; no entry into Canadian labour market.
- Start-up Visa (SUV) — permanent residence pathway for qualified entrepreneurs with designated Canadian backers.
Family, Humanitarian & Special Cases
- Family Sponsorship (PR pathway) — spouse/partner, dependent child, parents/grandparents.
- Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) — discretionary entry for inadmissible persons in justified cases.
Economic Immigration (Permanent Residence pathways)
- Express Entry — Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) — nominations from provinces/territories.
- Atlantic Immigration, Rural & Northern Immigration Pilot (program availability may vary).
- Caregivers pathways (when open).
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Canada Visa Requirements (What Malaysians Typically Need)
Here’s a quick checklist of what Malaysians typically need for a Canada Visitor Visa (TRV):
Requirement | What it is | Notes / When needed |
|---|---|---|
Valid passport | Malaysian passport, valid for your stay, with ≥1 blank page | Make sure it’s not damaged |
Online application (TRV) | Complete the Visitor Visa (form IMM 5257) and follow checklist IMM 5484 | Apply online via IRCC portal |
Photos | 2 visa photos meeting IRCC specs (35×45 mm, neutral expression, plain background) | Recent photos only |
Biometrics | Fingerprints + photo at a VAC (e.g., VFS Global Kuala Lumpur) | After you receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter |
Proof of funds | Recent bank statements, payslips, employment letter, etc. | Enough to cover trip + ties to return |
Travel plan / purpose | Itinerary, hotel bookings, event invites, conference tickets | Avoid buying non-refundable tickets before approval |
Ties to Malaysia | Employer letter & approved leave, business docs, property, family ties | Shows you’ll return after your visit |
Invitation letter (if applicable) | From host in Canada with relationship, purpose, length of stay, address, contact | Needed for family/friends visits or business trips |
Fees | Visa fee + biometrics fee (if applicable) | Paid online during application |
Medical exam (if required) | Panel physician exam | Required for certain jobs or longer stays / country-of-residence rules |
Police certificate (if requested) | Certificate of good conduct | Only if IRCC asks |
For minors | Birth certificate, custody docs (if any), parental consent letter if not with both parents | Airline consent forms may also be needed |
✅Official IRCC links
- Apply for a Visitor Visa (TRV):
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/apply-visitor-visa.html - IRCC online portal (sign in / create account):
https://portal-portail.apps.cic.gc.ca/ - Photo specifications:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/photograph-requirements.html - Biometrics info:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/biometrics.html
Countries and Regions that Enjoy Visa-Free Entry to Canada
Europe
Andorra; Austria; Belgium; Bulgaria; Croatia; Cyprus; Czechia; Denmark; Estonia; Finland; France; Germany; Greece; Hungary; Iceland; Ireland; Italy; Latvia; Liechtenstein; Lithuania; Luxembourg; Malta; Monaco; Netherlands; Norway; Poland; Portugal; Romania (electronic passports only); San Marino; Slovakia; Slovenia; Spain; Sweden; Switzerland; United Kingdom categories (British citizen; British National (Overseas); British overseas citizen re-admissible to the UK; British subjects with right of abode; and British Overseas Territories citizens from Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Gibraltar, Montserrat, Pitcairn, Saint Helena, Turks & Caicos).
Asia & Pacific
Australia; Brunei; Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR passport); Israel (national Israeli passport); Japan; Republic of Korea; New Zealand; Papua New Guinea; Samoa; Singapore; Solomon Islands; Taiwan *(ordinary MOFA passport with personal ID number); United Arab Emirates; Vatican City (Vatican passport).
Americas & Caribbean
Bahamas; Barbados; Chile. (U.S. travellers are listed below.)
Special notes (not eTA-required)
- U.S. citizens: visa- and eTA-exempt; carry a valid U.S. passport.
- U.S. lawful permanent residents (green card holders): visa- and eTA-exempt; must carry proof of status and a valid passport.
Tip:
Canada also has a limited “eTA expansion” for certain visa-required nationalities (e.g., Philippines, Thailand, etc.) who meet specific conditions (like holding a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa). That’s not full visa-free status, but it can allow flying to Canada with just an eTA—check the rules before you book.
Canada Visa Fees
Here are the current Canada immigration fees (CAD) most travelers ask about. Amounts below are straight from IRCC.
Category | Fee (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Visitor visa (TRV) | $100 | Starting from” $100 per person. Super visa uses same base processing fee (insurance extra). |
Transit visa | Free | For air transits ≤48 hours; no fee collected. |
eTA (visa-exempt air travel) | $7 | Required for most visa-exempt flyers (not U.S. citizens/PRs). |
Biometrics | $85 | Per person; $170 family max (applying together); $255 group of performing artists. |
Study permit | $150 | New applications and extensions. |
Work permit (closed or open) | $155 | Processing fee per person. |
Open work permit holder fee | +$100 | Paid in addition to $155 when applying for an open WP (e.g., PGWP). |
Restore status (visitor/worker/student) | $239.75 | Often paid with the new application fee (e.g., $239.75 + $150 for study). |
Temporary resident permit (TRP) | $239.75 | For certain inadmissibility situations. |
Heads-up: If you submit at a Visa Application Centre (VAC), service charges may apply on top of IRCC fees.
How to Apply for a Canada Visa
Source from www.canada.ca
Confirm you need a visa (not an eTA)
Malaysia is visa-required for short visits to Canada. You’ll be applying for a Visitor Visa (TRV).
Read the official “How to apply” guide
This page walks you through the process and opens the online application.
Gather documents with the IRCC checklist (IMM 5484)
Use IRCC’s official checklist to prep your passport, photos, funds, travel plan, ties to Malaysia, invitation (if any), etc.
Get visa photos that meet IRCC specs
Photo size and head size are specific (35×45 mm; head 31–36 mm).
Create/Sign in to the IRCC online portal and fill the forms
You’ll complete the TRV application online and upload your documents. (Forms like IMM 5257 are generated in the portal.)
Pay fees (visa + biometrics)
Visitor visa processing fee is CAD $100. Biometrics (if required) are $85 per person ($170 family cap). Pay online.
Give biometrics (fingerprints + photo)
You’ll receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) in your IRCC account. Book an appointment at an official site (e.g., VFS Global Kuala Lumpur) and complete biometrics within the deadline stated on your BIL.
Wait for IRCC updates
IRCC will message you in your account. If approved, you’ll receive passport submission instructions and a decision letter. Follow the instructions exactly; VACs charge a service fee to transmit your passport for visa stamping.
Submit your passport
Use the method IRCC specifies (often via the VAC). After the visa counterfoil is placed in your passport, the VAC returns it to you.
Travel to Canada
Bring your passport (with the visa), supporting documents (e.g., itinerary, proof of funds, invitation if applicable), and your return/onward ticket. IRCC’s “Visitor visa” page explains arrival steps.
How Long Does It Take to Apply for a Canada Visa?
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Hotels in Canada
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How Long Does It Take to Apply for a Canada Visa?
there isn’t one fixed timeline. IRCC’s processing time for a Visitor Visa (TRV) varies by the country you apply from and changes often. Check the live estimate here: the IRCC “Check processing times” tool.
What the timeline usually looks like
Stage | Typical timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Submit application + pay fees | Same day | Online via IRCC portal. |
Biometrics appointment | A few days–1+ week (varies by city/season) | You book after IRCC issues your Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL). Processing-time charts don’t include the time to give biometrics. |
IRCC processing | Varies by country | Use the IRCC checker; most apps are processed “in a few weeks or less,” but it can be longer depending on volume/complexity. |
Passport submission for visa stamping (after approval) | Courier/VAC handling adds extra days | VACs charge a service fee for passport transmission/return; this time is not in IRCC’s processing estimate. |
Safe Travels and See You in Canada! ✈️
Whether you’re heading to Canada for vacation, study, work, or to visit family and friends, we hope this guide makes your journey easier. Prepare your documents, follow the right steps, and you’ll be ready to take off.
Before you leave, don’t forget to:
✅ Book your flight to Canada early to get the best prices.
✅ Arrange your accommodation in advance — whether it’s a hotel, Airbnb, or a friend’s home.
✅ Get a local SIM card or pocket WiFi upon arrival — it will help with maps, communication, and finding your way around.
Canada is full of friendly people, beautiful parks, and vibrant cities. Pack your bags, dress for the weather, and get ready for an amazing experience.
Have a safe flight and enjoy your adventure in Canada! 🍁
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FAQs: Canada Visa
How long can I stay in Canada with a visitor visa?
Typically, up to 6 months per entry. However, the final permitted stay is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry and will be stamped in your passport.How long does the Canada visa processing take?
Processing usually takes several weeks but can vary depending on the season. It’s best to apply well in advance.Do I need to provide biometrics?
Yes. Most applicants are required to submit fingerprints and a photo at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).What should I do if my visa application is rejected?
You may reapply if you have new information or if your circumstances change.Do I need an invitation letter?
Not necessarily, but an invitation letter can support your application if you are visiting family or friends. It’s a simple letter stating that they will host you during your stay.