How to Get Canada’s New Digital Nomad Visa – Canada is quickly becoming a top destination for digital nomads who want to work remotely while experiencing a new culture. If you dream of living in Canada while working for a foreign employer, you’re in luck! Canada’s digital nomad visa allows remote workers to stay and work in the country for up to six months. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this visa, including eligibility, application steps, costs, healthcare, internet connectivity, and important legal considerations.
How to Get Canada’s New Digital Nomad Visa
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Canada Digital Nomad Visa (Temporary Resident Visa or eTA) |
| Eligibility | Foreign remote workers employed outside of Canada |
| Duration | Up to 6 months (extension possible) |
| Application Process | Apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) |
| Work Restrictions | Can work remotely for foreign employers; cannot work for Canadian companies |
| Extension Options | Can apply for a visitor record to extend stay |
| Tax Implications | Generally not taxable in Canada unless staying long-term |
| Healthcare Access | Private health insurance recommended |
| Cost of Living | CAD 2,000 – 5,000/month depending on city |
| Best Cities for Digital Nomads | Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa |
| Official Website | Canada Immigration |
Canada’s digital nomad visa is an excellent opportunity for remote workers looking to explore a new country while maintaining their jobs. With a strong digital infrastructure, high quality of life, and diverse cities, it’s a top choice for nomads. Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, arrange proper documentation, and get private health insurance for a smooth stay.
What is Canada’s Digital Nomad Visa?
The Canadian government has introduced a welcoming policy for remote workers. While it isn’t officially called a “digital nomad visa,” it allows foreigners to live in Canada for up to six months while working remotely for a foreign company. This initiative is part of Canada’s strategy to attract high-skilled professionals and boost the economy.
Unlike traditional work permits, this visa does not require employer sponsorship since digital nomads do not work for Canadian businesses. Instead, they enter as visitors and can legally continue working remotely for their employer outside Canada.
Who is Eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa?
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be employed by a non-Canadian company or be a self-employed freelancer with international clients
- Have sufficient financial resources to support yourself for the duration of your stay
- Meet visitor visa requirements, including a clean criminal record and health check
- Not take up employment within Canada (you can work remotely for non-Canadian clients/employers only)
If you meet these conditions, you can enter Canada and work remotely without needing a formal work permit.
Step-by-Step Application Process to Get Canada’s New Digital Nomad Visa
Step 1: Check if You Need a Visa
Canada offers two ways for remote workers to enter:
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) – If you’re from a visa-exempt country (e.g., U.S., UK, Australia, EU nations), you can apply for an eTA online before traveling.
- Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) – If your country is not visa-exempt, you must apply for a visitor visa (TRV) before entering Canada.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Valid passport (must be valid for the entire stay)
- Proof of employment or self-employment (contract, letter from employer, client invoices, etc.)
- Bank statements showing financial stability
- Travel itinerary (round-trip ticket recommended)
- Health insurance coverage (optional but recommended)
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- For eTA: Apply online via the official Canadian government website. Processing is usually within minutes.
- For TRV: Submit an application online or at a Canadian consulate in your home country. Processing times vary but can take weeks to months.
Step 4: Travel to Canada
Once approved, you can enter Canada and stay for up to six months. Border officers may ask about your work arrangements, so carry documents proving your employment and financial stability.
Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Canada
- Toronto – Canada’s largest city with excellent coworking spaces, diverse culture, and fast internet.
- Vancouver – Great for outdoor lovers, offering breathtaking scenery and a strong startup scene.
- Montreal – Affordable with a vibrant arts and tech community.
- Calgary – Lower cost of living and easy access to nature.
- Ottawa – Clean, safe, and tech-friendly environment.
Cost of Living in Canada as a Digital Nomad
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | $1,500 – $3,000/month |
| Coworking space | $200 – $500/month |
| Food & Dining | $500 – $1,200/month |
| Transportation | $100 – $200/month |
| Internet & Utilities | $100 – $200/month |
| Entertainment | $200 – $500/month |
Healthcare for Digital Nomads in Canada
Canada offers world-class healthcare, but as a visitor, you are not covered under public healthcare plans. It is recommended to purchase private health insurance before arrival to cover any medical expenses.
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FAQs about Canada’s New Digital Nomad Visa
1. Can I bring my family with me?
Yes, your spouse and children can accompany you, but they will need their own visitor visas or eTAs.
2. Can I work for a Canadian company while on this visa?
No, you can only work remotely for non-Canadian employers. If you wish to work for a Canadian business, you will need a work permit.
3. How much money do I need to show for financial stability?
There is no fixed amount, but you should demonstrate that you have enough savings to support yourself (typically CAD 2,000–3,000 per month is a safe estimate).
4. What if I want to stay longer than six months?
You can apply for a visitor record to extend your stay or transition to another visa category, such as a work permit.
5. Can I travel within Canada while on this visa?
Yes! You can explore all of Canada while working remotely.
