Canada Entry Hub 2026
Germany 🇩🇪 Canada 🇨🇦
Germany to Canada visa guide
Germany to Canada visa guide Official February 2026 entry protocols for German citizens. Navigate the $7 eTA mandate, 2026 IEC Working Holiday rounds, and updated student financial rules.| Path Category | Stay Limit | Requirement | 2026 Key Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourism (eTA) | 6 Months | German Passport | CAD $7 |
| Working Holiday (IEC) | 12 Months | Ages 18-35 | CAD $365 (Total) |
| Study Permit | Course Length | PAL + GIC | CAD $22,895 (Savings) |
1. Tourism & Short Visits eTA Required
German citizens are visa-exempt for Canada but must have digital travel authorization.
- eTA Mandate: You MUST apply for an **Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)** before boarding your flight.
- Online Process: It costs **CAD $7** and most approvals are granted within minutes or up to 12 hours.
- Validity: Valid for up to **5 years** or until your passport expires.
- Border Entry: You can stay for up to **6 months**. Immigration may ask for proof of funds and a return ticket.
2. Working Holiday (IEC) Pool Open
The 2026 International Experience Canada (IEC) season is now in full swing for Germans.
- 2026 Quota: Germany has a quota of **3,030 spots** for the 2026 season.
- First Round: The first round of invitations for Germany began the week of **February 9, 2026**.
- Eligibility: Open to Germans aged **18 to 35**. You must have at least **CAD $2,500** in savings.
- Visa Type: Issued as an open work permit, allowing you to work for any employer in Canada for up to 12 months.
3. Studying in Canada Higher Savings
Canada has significantly increased financial requirements for all study permit applicants in 2026.
- Cost-of-Living: You must now show at least **CAD $22,895** for living expenses (excluding tuition and travel).
- GIC Requirement: Most students use a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of **CAD $22,895** as proof of funds.
- PAL Requirement: A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is mandatory for most undergraduate study permit applications.
- Work Rights: Students are limited to working **24 hours per week** off-campus during academic sessions in 2026.
4. 2026 Border & Dual Nationality Strict
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) enforces strict transparency and identity rules.
- Dual Citizens: Since the new German citizenship law (June 2024), many more Germans hold dual Canadian citizenship. If you are a dual citizen, you MUST travel on your **Canadian passport** to enter Canada.
- ArriveCAN: It is recommended to use the ArriveCAN app to submit your customs declaration **72 hours** before landing to save time at major airports.
- Currency: You must declare any cash or monetary instruments exceeding **CAD $10,000**.
- Medication: Carry prescription medications in original packaging with a copy of the prescription in English or French.
© 2026 Global Visa Guide e | Information Verified via IRCC Canada & German Federal Foreign Office.