Nepal And Japan Joins Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, China, India, Kazakhstan, And More Countries In Asia As Canada Tourist Visa Requirement Grows With Stricter Immigration Policies

Published on December 15, 2025

Canada has recently expanded its tourist visa requirements, affecting travelers from countries like China, India, Japan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and many others across Asia. This move is part of Canada’s effort to enhance border security and streamline its immigration process in response to increasing global travel. As a result, citizens from these nations must now navigate a more detailed visa application process before visiting Canada for tourism, business, or conference purposes. The new visa rules aim to ensure that only those with legitimate travel intentions are granted entry, making it essential for travelers to understand and prepare for the updated requirements.

In recent years, Canada has emerged as a leading destination for travelers from across the globe. From business professionals to tourists, the country offers numerous opportunities for people to explore its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and thriving urban hubs. However, in response to evolving immigration policies and increasing international tourism, Canada has imposed stricter visa requirements for several Asian countries. Travelers from nations such as China, India, Japan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and others now face new visa conditions to enter Canada for tourism, business, or conferences. This shift marks a significant change in the travel landscape for citizens of these countries.

Countries Affected by Canada’s Stricter Visa Rules

As Canada continues to tighten its immigration policies, the scope of the countries impacted has widened. Among the nations that now require a tourist visa, or have had their visa application processes altered, include:

• China
• India
• Japan
• Indonesia
• Pakistan
• Bangladesh
• Kazakhstan
• Uzbekistan
• Vietnam
• Thailand
• Philippines
• Malaysia
• Singapore
• Nepal
• Sri Lanka
• Maldives
• Bhutan
• Afghanistan
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Cambodia
• Laos

These countries now find themselves navigating the complex requirements for Canada’s tourist visas, which have traditionally been part of the broader visa process for various travel purposes, including tourism, business meetings, and conference attendance.

The Canada Visa Landscape: What Has Changed?

For many years, citizens from a select few Asian nations have been exempt from the need to apply for a tourist visa. They could simply enter Canada with a valid passport and apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying. However, recent changes to Canadian immigration policy have expanded the list of countries whose citizens now require a visa. Travelers from China, India, Japan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and a range of other Asian nations must now apply for a visitor visa before embarking on their journey.

This move comes as part of a broader strategy to better manage the growing number of visitors and ensure that those who enter the country do so legally and with proper documentation. The shift has also been influenced by various factors, including geopolitical relations, national security concerns, and a heightened awareness of the need to protect Canada’s borders.

Visa-Required Countries: Key Details for Applicants

For many citizens from countries affected by this new visa requirement, the process of applying for a Canada Tourist Visa can be daunting. However, with the advent of online applications through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal, the application process has become more streamlined and accessible.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Canada Tourist Visa:

1. Create an IRCC Account
   The first step in applying for a visa is to create an online account with the IRCC. This is where applicants will submit their visa application forms and track their application status. Once you’ve set up your account, you will receive a confirmation email to complete the registration process.
2. Select the Appropriate Visa Type
   There are different types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit to Canada. The most common types are:
   • Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa): This is for individuals visiting Canada for leisure, sightseeing, or family visits.
   • Business Visa: Required for travelers attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations.
   • Conference Visa: If you are attending an academic, professional, or industry-related conference in Canada, this is the visa you’ll need.
3. Fill Out the Application Form
   Applicants must fill out the appropriate form (IMM 5257) for their selected visa type. Information such as personal details, purpose of visit, travel dates, employment, and travel history must be provided accurately.
4. Submit Required Documents
   Along with your application, you must submit supporting documents, including:
   • Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
   • Financial Proof: Bank statements, pay slips, or other documents that show you can support yourself during your stay.
   • Travel Itinerary: Flight bookings and accommodation details.
   • Invitation Letter: If attending a conference or business meeting, an invitation letter from the organizer is required.
5. Pay the Application Fee
   After submitting the required documents, applicants must pay the visa application fee via credit card or debit card through the IRCC portal.
6. Biometrics Appointment
   In some cases, applicants may need to attend a biometrics appointment where they will provide fingerprints and a photograph. This appointment must be scheduled at a local Visa Application Center (VAC).
7. Wait for Processing
   After completing all the necessary steps, applicants must wait for their visa to be processed. This can take anywhere from 10 to 20 business days, depending on various factors such as the volume of applications and the specific visa type.
8. Receive Your Visa
   Once your visa is approved, you will receive either an electronic visa or a visa sticker in your passport, which you will need to carry with you when traveling to Canada.

General Requirements for All Applicants

Though the specific visa type may vary, all applicants must meet certain basic requirements to be eligible for a Canada tourist visa:

• Financial Stability: You must show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay in Canada.
• Proof of Return: You must demonstrate that you will return to your home country before your visa expires.
• Good Health: Some applicants may need to undergo a medical exam to prove their health status.
• No Criminal Record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record. Police certificates may be requested as proof.
• Clear Purpose of Visit: Your travel must align with the purpose of the visa you are applying for—tourism, business, or conference attendance.

Why Canada Is Tightening Its Visa Policy

Canada’s decision to tighten its visa policy comes amidst increasing global concerns over immigration and border security. With travelers from countries such as China, India, Japan, and others now facing more stringent visa requirements, Canada is ensuring that it continues to manage the volume of international visitors efficiently.

Additionally, the Canadian government has cited the need to streamline the visa process in light of rising international tensions and global security concerns. By imposing these changes, Canada aims to attract the right kind of visitors, enhance border security, and foster stronger economic ties with specific regions in Asia.

Impact on Travelers from Asia

While these changes may seem restrictive, they present an opportunity for travelers to plan their visits more thoroughly and ensure that their travel documentation is in order well ahead of time. For many, the process may also serve as a deterrent to those planning to overstay or enter Canada illegally, thus making the country a safer and more regulated destination.

For business professionals, academics, and conference attendees, the visa application process ensures that only those with legitimate reasons for visiting are granted entry. Furthermore, the requirement for biometrics and financial proof strengthens the integrity of the Canadian immigration system.

Canada’s revised visa requirements for travelers from various Asian countries, including China, India, Japan, Indonesia, and many others, mark a significant shift in the country’s immigration and tourism landscape. While the new regulations may seem restrictive, they ultimately aim to ensure that only those with legitimate travel purposes can enter the country. By understanding the new visa process and preparing in advance, travelers can navigate the application system efficiently and enjoy all that Canada has to offer.

Canada has expanded its tourist visa requirements to include travelers from China, India, Japan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and several other Asian countries. This change is driven by the country’s efforts to enhance security and better manage the growing number of international visitors.

If you are from one of the affected countries, it is essential to carefully follow the application steps and submit the required documentation to ensure smooth processing of your visa. By planning ahead and understanding the changes in the visa process, you can make your trip to Canada a reality and explore its beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture.