The country of Canada, which is beautiful and encapsulating, attracts people from all over the globe to come and reside there. However, even the stunning mountain ranges are not always enough to convince people to leave their businesses behind. Thankfully, with the availability and popularity of the digital nomad visa, Canada is one of the countries that allow its residents to live in their territory while simultaneously operating their business remotely.
Does Canada have a Digital Nomad Visa?
Under Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and former Canada Immigration Minister Sean Fraser, the Canadian government has taken several initiatives to improve the tourist industry. One new program is the introduction of Canada’s digital nomad visa as part of the Tech Talent strategy.
The main purpose of this visa is to attract skilled workers into the country and show them all that the country has to offer. By doing so, foreign workers can be convinced to explore permanent residency and residence permits. Unlike most digital nomad visas, the Canadian visa allows you to entertain employment opportunities in the country, as long as you change the visa.
Who can Apply for the Canada Digital Nomad Visa?
There are a few factors to consider while evaluating your eligibility for this visa. If you fulfill the checklist given below then you can easily get a Canadian digital nomad visa.
- Eligible for visitor status
- Digital nomad
- Someone who can work remotely
- Self-employed workers, not providing services to a Canadian employer
- Employed by a foreign company or foreign employer
How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Canada?
- Check Eligibility
First and foremost, you need to find out if you are even eligible for the Canada digital nomad visa. You can do so by going to the IRCC official website and checking under the “digital nomad” tab.
- Gather the documents
Now is the time to gather all the documents required for a Digital Nomad Visa. The tentative list for the visa requirements is discussed below.
Make sure to double-check them before submitting.
- Apply
You’ll need to check whether your country is visa-exempt in regard to Canada’s context. If it is, you can arrive in the country and enter as a digital nomad. On the off chance that your country isn’t visa-exempt, you’ll need to go to a Canadian embassy or consulate in your country of origin (home country)
- Fill out the application form.
This step includes a lot of intricate details. Hence, the necessary amount of attention should be given. You can easily get it online and print it.
- Wait for feedback
Once you have completed all the steps, you just need to sit tight and wait for the authorities to process your application. You’ll most likely receive feedback within 1-4 months.
- Enter Canada
You’ll receive a confirmation email if your application is approved. Following that, you’ll need to collect your visa from the Canadian consulate or embassy and enter Canada.
How Much Does it Cost?
A Canadian digital nomad visa typically costs CA $100 (100 Canadian dollars). However, an additional $85 will be required if you need to get your biometrics too. A Canadian work permit, on the other hand, costs 155$. Family members will incur additional visa fees.
Canada’s Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
If you’re someone who is thinking about applying for a Canadian digital nomad visa then these are the applications and documentation you should start gathering.
Important: copies of the following documents must be submitted in the English language.
- You can use any of the following travel documents
- Passport
- Alien’s passport for stateless persons
- Permit to re-enter the US (I-327)
- US Refugee Travel Document (I-571)
- Other refugee travel documents for non-citizens
- Valid passport: a passport that will remain valid for at least 6 months and has 2 blank pages.
- Valid health insurance: international medical insurance that will remain valid and cover all medical expenses for the duration of your entire stay.
- Proof of employment: applicants must submit proof that they are currently working for a business based outside of Canada. This could be proved by the submission of an employment contract, Payslips, or any other documents.
- Proof of sufficient means: you can submit proof in the form of payslips or bank statements.
- Proof of residence: you must provide evidence about your accommodation.
- Bank slips for the last 6 months
- Passport sized photos
- Clean criminal record certificate: you must be able to prove that you have not been convicted of any crimes in your home country or current country of residence. You can easily get a copy of the criminal record check certificate from a local police station.
Financial requirements
Luckily for remote workers, there is no minimum income requirement for a Canadian digital nomad visa. As long as you can prove that your income is sufficient enough to support your stay and lifestyle, you are free to enter the country.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Canada Digital Nomad Visa?
There is no standard time for this visa application process but it can be estimated to take 1-4 months. Ideally, your application will be processed within 1-2 months of submission and you’ll receive feedback. However, you should keep in mind that the time will vary based on factors such as the accuracy of your application, the competency of the departments, the amount of burden they are dealing with, and perhaps even some government policies.
5 Benefits of the Canada Digital Nomad Visa
- High quality of life
Canada offers various facilities and modern amenities that ensure a very high quality of life. Digital nomads will have access to a resourceful economy, and growing tech sector, and they will have the opportunity to thrive. The free healthcare, high-end medical treatment, and education, paired with a stable political system is a great combination for sure.
- Easy Digital Nomad visa
One of the best parts about Canada is its accommodating digital nomad visa. This country has one of the best and easiest visa options that attracts remote workers and nomads from all over the world to come and set shop up here. Not only is it one of the best places in North America but it’s also turning into a digital nomad hotspot of sorts.
- Natural beauty
Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and dream-like weather, Canada is a concoction of natural beauty. You can live close to nature in this country and thrive in the refreshing atmosphere. Canada is well known for its unparalleled views, cool blue oceans, and scenic landscapes.
- Safe country
Canada is considered a safe country overall. In fact, it’s one of the safest North American countries out there. While Canada experiences a low crime rate in general, petty crimes are not unheard of. Pocket-picking, scams, and theft are occasional yet possible so make sure to take necessary precautions. Other than that, the locals are friendly and welcoming. You can trust the people around you and spend your time with ease of mind. All in all, Canada is a good place for digital nomads (even if they are traveling solo).
- High-speed internet
The good news for remote workers is that this country has a great wifi connection. The Canadian government has highly invested in the internet infrastructure to enable reliable and high-speed Wi-Fi all over the region. Canada experiences an average download speed of 76.32 Mbps which is great for remote work. Digital nomads can easily maintain a good work-life balance thanks to these. Additionally, you can get local SIM cards at your nearest convenience store or an airport when you arrive. Most cafes and coworking spaces offer fast wifi for free.
Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in Canada?
As long as you are considered a tax resident in Canada, you’ll be required to pay taxes on your worldwide income. Whether you are a foreign national or permanent resident, you’ll be subject to income taxes.
However, most digital nomads only stay in Canada for six months on a visitor visa and hence, they are not liable to the taxes.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa Canada
A digital nomad visa typically stays valid for 6 months. If you wish to extend your stay in Canada then you must apply for a “visitor’s record” before those initial six months have passed. You can do this by creating an account on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada website and submitting an online application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa for Canada?
United States citizens don’t need a visa to enter Canada as long as they are planning to stay for less than 180 days. Any longer than that, citizens will need to explore alternative visa options to validate their stay.
How long does a Canadian digital nomad visa last?
A Canadian digital nomad visa falls under the category of visitor visa. This means that digital nomads using this can stay for a period of 6 months.
What is the best place for digital nomads in Canada?
Toronto, the bustling capital of Ontario, is a mesmerizing city with a concoction of coworking spaces and a digital nomad community. While it has always been unique, this attractive destination has gained popularity among the digital nomad community over the recent years. It is also one of the major cities in the country, allowing you to experience the “big city” life.
Why am I denied a Canadian digital nomad visa?
While your embassy can guide you best about this, here are some reasons why one’s digital nomad visa application may get denied.
1. Misinformation
2. Incomplete information
3. Insufficient funds
4. Failure to meet health standards
5. Incomplete application form
However, it is not something to dwell on as the relevant authorities will notify you of the reason in written notice.
Which countries are easiest to get a digital nomad visa?
List of countries with the easiest digital nomad visa:
- Anguilla
- Antigua
- Barbados
- Bermuda
- Cape Verde
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Curacao
- Romania
- Croatia
- Malta
- Sri Lanka
- Greece
- Norway
- Spain
- Republic of Korea
- Hungary
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, we can agree that Canada is one of the best destinations in northern America. If you have made up your mind about moving here, you certainly won’t be disappointed.
From a vibrant atmosphere and high quality of life to modern amenities and blockchain technology, this country has it all. You can settle here as a remote worker and call this place your home.
This article discussed Canada’s new digital nomad program and the process that concerns it. We hope it answered all your questions, provided the necessary information, and helped you evaluate the visa policy of this country. If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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