Canada without the hassle: the honest (and complete) guide to traveling from Colombia

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Canada without the hassle: the honest (and complete) guide to traveling from Colombia

Got your map ready but a million questions swirling in your head? Relax. Here's how to travel to Canada from Colombia without getting lost in red tape, costs, and strange acronyms. Let's get down to brass tacks: what you need to travel to Canada , the requirements for traveling to Canada from Colombia, a realistic cost estimate , and the best routes if your plan is tourism, study, work, or even to experience the 2026 World Cup. Here's a straightforward guide on how to travel to Canada: complete information and practical tips to enjoy even winter without any hassle.

📌 The basics: requirements for traveling to Canada

If you have a Colombian passport, the first thing is clear: yes, you need a visa to enter . The eTA (electronic travel authorization) does not apply to us. The type of visa application depends on the purpose of your trip.

✈️ Tourism: You need the Visitor Visa (TRV), valid for up to six months, which also covers short courses of less than six months.
🎓 Study: the path is the Study Permit, which requires a letter of acceptance from an authorized institution (DLI) and proof of funds for tuition and living expenses.
💼 Work: A firm job offer is usually required; with that you apply for a Work Permit that can be closed (linked to an employer) or open (in specific cases such as spouses of students or workers).
⚽ World Cup 2026: Tourist visa is used (no special visa).

In all cases, the process includes online forms, payment of fees, a biometrics appointment at the Bogotá VAC (Citizen Assistance Center), a valid passport, and proof of sufficient funds . Furthermore, immigration officials pay special attention to your ties to Colombia : stable employment, ongoing studies, family, or assets are all indicators that demonstrate you will return to the country after your trip.

🧳 Traveling to Canada for tourism: steps, timings and budget

If you plan to travel to Canada for tourism, the process is simple but requires organization:
1️⃣ Create your account on the official portal.
2️⃣ Fill out the form .
3️⃣ You pay for the tourist visa (about CAD $100 ≈ USD $72) plus the biometrics (CAD $85 ≈ USD $61).
4️⃣ Schedule your appointment .
5️⃣ Upload the supporting documents (bank statements, employment or study letter, hotel reservations, travel itinerary).
6️⃣ You wait for the decision .

✅ If your application is approved, they stamp the visa in your passport and that's it!

💰 Now let's talk about money:

Visa + biometrics: CAD $185 (≈ USD $133) per person.
Round-trip flights from Bogotá to Toronto : between $2 and $3.5 million COP , depending on the season and advance booking.
Travel insurance : from $30,000 COP per day (don't miss out, healthcare is expensive there 🏥).
Accommodation in large cities: from CAD $90–$150 (≈ USD $65–$108) per night.
Food and transportation : between CAD $80–$100 (≈ USD $58–$72) per day.

👉 The total budget is between $10 and $15 million COP per person . This can be reduced by choosing hostels, cooking at your accommodation, or traveling during the off-season, but be aware 👀: it's an investment destination .

📌 Some quick tips:

Do not buy tickets before your visa is approved (unless they are refundable).

Bring your physical and digital media .

If you are traveling with minors 👨👩👧👦, don't forget the notarized exit permits .

🎓 Studying in Canada: Investment and Opportunities

If your plan is to study in Canada , the main requirement is an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) . In addition, you must demonstrate sufficient funds : besides first-year tuition, you must show proof of income for your annual living expenses . For reference, this is currently estimated at CAD $22,895 (approximately USD $16,480) for a solo student.

📄 The study permit costs CAD $150 (≈ USD $108) plus CAD $85 for biometrics (≈ USD $61) . This document typically allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during holidays . Combining studying and part-time work helps cover daily expenses 💵, although it never replaces the requirement to show proof of funds before traveling.

📊 The first year's budget usually includes:

📚 Tuition: between CAD $15,000–$30,000 (≈ USD $10,800–$21,600), depending on the program and city.
🏠 Cost of living: around CAD $1,000–$1,500 (≈ USD $720–$1,080) per month to cover accommodation, food, transportation and cell phone.
🏥 Student health insurance: between CAD $600–$900 (≈ USD $432–$648) per year , unless covered by the provincial plan.
✈️ One-way flight: between CAD $300–$700 (≈ USD $216–$504), depending on the season.
🧳 Installation costs: rental deposit, basic household items and winter clothing if you arrive in the cold season.

🚀 The great advantage is that upon graduation you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) , which allows you to work in Canada for eight months to three years , depending on the length of your program. This permit is an important gateway to gaining local experience and considering residency plans .

💼 Working in Canada: what you should know before taking the plunge

To work in Canada , there are no shortcuts: you need a valid job offer before traveling. Most of the time, your employer must obtain an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment), which allows them to hire a foreign national. With this document, you apply for your Work Permit .

💰 The cost is CAD $155 (≈ USD $112) plus CAD $85 for biometrics (≈ USD $61), and if your case applies to an open permit , add an extra fee of CAD $100 (≈ USD $72).

🏥 Before traveling, check how health coverage works in the province where you'll be living, because in some cases there are waiting periods before you can use the public system. During that time, private health insurance is essential.

💡 Another important point: bring enough savings for your arrival, because the first expenses of rent, transport and food are your responsibility until you receive your first salary.

📝 Prepare your CV in English or French , thoroughly research the company, and avoid unreliable offers .

🚫 And don't forget: with a tourist visa you cannot work legally .

⚽ The 2026 World Cup in Canada: logistics and key tips

The 2026 World Cup will be held in Toronto and Vancouver , and entry is granted with the usual tourist visa . It's crucial to apply well in advance , as demand will be extremely high.

🎟️ Tickets are sold through FIFA and their prices depend on the phase and location.

🏨 Hotels will go up in price and fill up quickly, so book as soon as possible .

🌎 If you also plan to attend matches in the United States , you will need a US visa ; in Mexico , Colombians do not currently require a tourist visa, but it is advisable to confirm the policies before traveling .

💰 A fan planning two weeks ahead can expect:

Group stage tickets: from USD $60 .
Hotels at venues: around CAD $200–$300 (≈ USD $144–$216) per night .
Flights Bogotá–Toronto (summer): between USD $800–$1,000 .
An extra for meals, transport and souvenirs 🛍️.

🛡️ As always with large-scale events, travel with insurance that covers cancellations and delays .

❄️ Traveling to Canada in winter: cold yes, but magical

Yes, it's cold . Very cold 🥶. But it's also one of the best experiences . In cities like Montreal , temperatures can drop to -20°C , but with the right clothing, you can survive without any problem.

👕 The trick is to dress in layers : thermal underwear, a wool sweater, and a waterproof coat. Add boots with non-slip soles , gloves 🧤, and a hat 🧣. And although it might seem strange, bring sunscreen 🧴: the wind and snow can be deceiving.

🎿 Winter opens unique opportunities :

Skiing ⛷️
Go snowboarding 🏂
Ice skating ⛸️
Visiting Christmas markets 🎄
And, if you travel north, see the Northern Lights 🌌

✈️ In addition, except on dates such as Christmas and New Year , flight and hotel prices tend to be lower .

👨👩👧 Traveling to Canada with family: procedures and benefits

If you're wondering how to travel to Canada with your family from Colombia , the key is to organize every detail . Everyone must have a passport and visa . Minors traveling with only one parent need an authenticated exit permit .

The funds you demonstrate must cover all family members . The advantage, if your plan is to study , is that your children can attend public school and your partner can apply for an open work permit in some cases. And remember: each family member must travel with valid health insurance from day one .

🌍 Alternatives and reasons to travel to Canada

At this point you might be wondering: why choose this destination? ✨
The answer is that there are many compelling reasons for Canada to be on your list:

🍁 Stunning nature : from Niagara Falls to the Rocky Mountains .
🏙️ Cosmopolitan and multicultural cities : Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal blend cultures, flavors and unique opportunities.
🎓 Top-notch education : The Canadian education system is among the best in the world .
💼 Real job opportunities : sectors such as technology, health and construction are growing.
⚽ Global events : the 2026 World Cup is the perfect excuse to get to know the country in a vibrant atmosphere.

📶 Seamless connectivity: the importance of traveling connected with Conecty

No trip is complete if you land and lose your connection. The reality is that without data, there are no maps, WhatsApp, or transportation.

That's why it's worth checking out guides like Everything about eSIMs: Hassle-free global connectivity or clearing up any doubts with International roaming: myths and truths . And if you want to delve into local traditions, check out Saint Patrick's Day: a celebration that goes beyond shamrocks and green beer , which is also celebrated in Canada.

Conecty makes everything easier with its international SIM and eSIM cards, data plans tailored to each traveler's needs, and support in Spanish. So you can travel connected from the very first minute, control your spending, and browse, use maps, and share your stories worry-free.

⚠️ Common mistakes you can avoid

Many travelers make the same mistakes. Here are the most common ones:

❌ Buying tickets before the visa : it can be expensive if your application is denied.
❌ Failure to demonstrate ties to the community : traveling without employment letters , studies , or clear links complicates the process.
❌ Underestimating funds : not showing sufficient resources is a recipe for rejection.
❌ Go without health insurance : in Canada, healthcare is extremely expensive 💸.
❌ Do not translate documents into English or French with an official translator: it may delay your process.
❌ Traveling as a tourist to look for work : is not allowed 🚫.

❓ Mini-FAQ: Quick answers to frequently asked questions

💡 Mini-FAQ: Quick answers to frequently asked questions

❓ What do you need to travel to Canada for tourism?

👉 Visitor visa , valid passport , biometrics , funds and proof of return to Colombia .

❓ How can I travel to Canada from Colombia if I'm a student?

👉 With a letter of acceptance from a DLI , payment of fees , proof of funds for tuition and living expenses, health insurance , and application for a Study Permit .

❓ How to travel to Canada with my family from Colombia?

👉 With the same steps, more evidence of funding for everyone . In studies, the couple can apply for an open work permit 💼 and the children gain access to public school 🏫.

❓ How much does it cost to travel to Canada from Colombia?

👉 In tourism , a 10-day trip costs between $10 and $15 million COP .
👉 In the study , tuition and annual living costs are added.

❓ Can I go to the 2026 World Cup without a special visa?

👉 Yes ⚽. A tourist visa is sufficient.