Canada Visa Permitted & Non-Permitted Activities (2025)

This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor. You can confirm details through Our Canada Visa Guidance.

When visiting Canada in 2025, it’s essential to understand which activities are permitted and which are not permitted under your visa conditions. Engaging in unauthorized activities can lead to visa cancellation, fines, or future entry bans. This guide explains what you can and cannot do on various types of Canada visas, including rules for attendees of the World Cup 2025.

Permitted Activities for Canada Visa Holders (2025)

Depending on your visa type, the following activities are allowed:

• Visitor Visa: Tourism, family visits, attending short business meetings, or participating in cultural and sporting events such as the World Cup 2025.
• Study Permit: Full-time or part-time study at an approved Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Work Permit: Employment only with the authorized employer listed on your permit.
• Transit Visa: Passing through Canada en route to another destination (without extended stay).
• World Cup 2025 Visa: Attending matches, participating in the event as accredited staff, media, or volunteers, and tourism before or after the event.

Non-Permitted Activities (Prohibited Actions)

Engaging in the following activities without specific authorization can violate visa conditions:

• Working for a Canadian employer without a valid work permit.
• Enrolling in a course longer than six months without a study permit.
• Participating in paid performances, sporting, or entertainment events without proper authorization.
• Overstaying your visa validity period.
• Applying for jobs or employment while on a visitor visa.
• Using a visitor visa for long-term residency or relocation purposes.

World Cup 2025 Permitted Activities

During the World Cup 2025, visitors with the appropriate visa or eTA may:

• Attend matches, festivals, and official fan zones.
• Volunteer at approved event venues (if accredited).
• Engage in tourism before and after the event.

However, paid work or professional engagement related to the event requires a temporary work permit. Media professionals, vendors, and performers must apply under the correct work or business category.

Extending Stay After World Cup 2025

World Cup attendees wishing to remain in Canada after the tournament may apply for a visitor visa extension before their current visa expires. Proof of financial stability and a clear reason for extension (tourism, family visit, etc.) are required.

Consequences of Violating Visa Conditions

Breaking visa terms can lead to serious legal outcomes, including:

• Visa cancellation and immediate deportation.
• Fines and entry bans for future applications.
• Ineligibility for future Canadian immigration or study/work permits.

To avoid issues, always follow the conditions stated on your visa or permit document.

Tips for Staying Compliant

• Check your visa category before engaging in new activities.
• Apply for an appropriate visa (study, work, or visitor) for your purpose.
• Keep a copy of your entry record and visa approval letter at all times.
• Do not accept employment offers unless authorized.

Related Guidance

• General Visa Requirements (2025)
• Eligibility Requirements (2025)
• Visa Refusals & Reapplication (2025)
• Extend a Canada Visa (2025)
• World Cup 2025 Visa Information

People Also Asked

Can I work in Canada on a visitor visa?
No, you cannot work or receive payment while on a visitor visa unless you obtain a valid work permit.

Can I volunteer for the World Cup 2025 with a visitor visa?
Yes, unpaid volunteer roles for officially accredited events are generally allowed.

Can I study in Canada while on a visitor visa?
Only short courses under six months are permitted; longer programs require a study permit.

About This Page

Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: December 2025.