Visas and Dual Nationality

A visa is a special kind of travel document. It is permission from that country’s government to enter the country. While entry and exit requirements differ by country, all countries have some requirements that all foreigners must meet.

Some countries require you to get a visa before you leave home, others issue you a visa when you arrive at the border. Some countries require a visa for longer stays or depending on your reason for entering the country (such as for tourism, as a student, or to work). Others do not require visas for short visits.

Before you travel, even for a short trip, check the Government of Canada’s website to learn more about the travel requirements for each country you plan to visit.

Last Reviewed: June 2023

Follow these steps to find out if and how to get a visa for the country (or countries) you plan to visit:

1. Go to the Government of Canada’s website to learn more about travel advice and advisories by country.
2. Type in the country you want to visit.
3. Jump down the page to the section called “Entry and exit requirements”.
4. Read to see what you must do to enter and exit that country.

Repeat these steps for each country you plan to visit!

You can also contact the country’s foreign representative in Canada. Visit Global Affairs Canada’s website to find information for foreign representatives in Canada.

Last Reviewed: June 2023

Each country has different processes and processing times. It is a good idea to do your research about visa requirements early. Give yourself extra time to apply for a visa, just in case.

Last Reviewed: June 2023

Yes, you need both documents.

Each document has a different purpose. A visa is permission from the country you are visiting to enter that country. A passport is a Canadian travel document that, among other things, proves your right to return to Canada.

Often a visa is put right into your passport, usually as a stamp or stapled piece of paper. This keeps things simple as you just show one document when entering a country. This also means you must have a valid passport before you apply for a visa. Some countries also require that your passport be valid for 6 months after your travels.

Do your research early so you do not run out of time!

Last Reviewed: June 2023

You should contact the Canadian representative in your own country to get information on visa and entry requirements to Canada. Visit also the Government of Canada’s website for more information about visiting Canada.

Last Reviewed: June 2023

Each country has laws governing citizenship. Some people are recognized by two or more countries as a citizen. This is dual or multiple citizenship or nationality.

Canadians can have foreign citizenship while also having Canadian citizenship.

Last Reviewed: June 2023

Each country has laws governing citizenship. Some countries allow you to claim citizenship if your parents were born there. Check the laws of that country for more information.

Last Reviewed: June 2023

There may be benefits to having citizenship in another country. Although Canadian passports are well-recognized and respected world-wide, sometimes it may be easier to travel or work using a different passport.

Last Reviewed: June 2023

There can be.

Some countries have strict rules for their citizens, such as compulsory service in the military or paying taxes.

Or, if your parents fled a country, you may face problems if you travel back there. You should look into the status of your parents with their homeland if you think there might be trouble. If you do have trouble when you arrive there, immediately contact the nearest Canadian government office.

Last Reviewed: June 2023