Benin passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Benin

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of Benin need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–60 days
Government fee	CA$100 + CA$30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months

How to apply

1
Determine eligibility
Check if you need a visa and which type applies
2
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per checklist
3
Complete application form
Fill IMM 5257 online or by hand
4
Pay fees
Pay visa fee ($100 CAD) and biometrics fee ($85 CAD) online
5
Submit application
Submit online via IRCC portal or paper at VFS Global
6
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule at a VFS Global centre or Canadian embassy
7
Attend biometrics appointment
Provide fingerprints and photograph in person
8
Wait for processing
Processing time varies; check IRCC website for updates
9
Passport submission
If approved, submit passport for visa sticker
10
Receive passport
Collect passport with visa or have it couriered

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
At least one blank page, valid beyond intended stay
Passport-size photographs
Two recent photos meeting Canadian specifications
Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Download from IRCC website
Family information form (IMM 5645)
For applicants 18+ years old
Biometrics fee receipt
Pay online before appointment
Visa application fee receipt
Proof of payment

Travel

Travel itinerary
Flight bookings and accommodation details
Travel insurance
Optional
Recommended but not mandatory

Financial

Proof of financial means
Bank statements, pay slips, or sponsorship letter

Employment

Employment letter
Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

Letter of invitation (if applicable)
Optional
From host in Canada
Proof of ties to home country
Property deeds, family certificates, or business registration
Police clearance certificate
Optional
May be requested by visa officer
Medical exam report
Optional
If staying more than 6 months or from designated country

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of $2,500 CAD for single applicant

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsorship letter

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay and return

Good to know

Processing times can be longer during peak seasons
Incomplete applications may be returned or refused
Biometrics are valid for 10 years for subsequent applications

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial proof

Provide clear bank statements and proof of income

Weak ties to home country

Submit evidence of employment, property, or family in Benin

Incomplete application

Double-check all forms and documents before submission

FAQ

Do citizens of Benin need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of Benin need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa).

How long can citizens of Benin stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the Canada visa cost for citizens of Benin?

Government fee: CA$100 + CA$30 service fee.

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 15–60 days.

What documents do citizens of Benin need for Canada?

Valid passport; Passport-size photographs; Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Family information form (IMM 5645); Proof of financial means; Travel itinerary; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Canada?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

canada.ca

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