---
title: Canada visa for citizens of Benin
description: "Citizens of Benin need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: CA$100 + CA$30 service fee. Processing: 15–60 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/canada/benin
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Canada visa for citizens of Benin

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.*

Application site: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html

## 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

- **Valid passport** (Identity): At least one blank page, valid beyond intended stay
- **Passport-size photographs** (Identity): Two recent photos meeting Canadian specifications
- **Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)** (Identity): Download from IRCC website
- **Family information form (IMM 5645)** (Identity): For applicants 18+ years old
- **Proof of financial means** (Financial): Bank statements, pay slips, or sponsorship letter
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel): Flight bookings and accommodation details
- **Letter of invitation (if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): From host in Canada
- **Employment letter** (Employment): Stating position, salary, and approved leave
- **Proof of ties to home country** (Supporting): Property deeds, family certificates, or business registration
- **Travel insurance** (Travel, optional): Recommended but not mandatory
- **Biometrics fee receipt** (Identity): Pay online before appointment
- **Visa application fee receipt** (Identity): Proof of payment
- **Police clearance certificate** (Supporting, optional): May be requested by visa officer
- **Medical exam report** (Supporting, 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

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html)

## More

- [Canada visa for every passport](/visa/canada)
- [Every destination for Benin passport holders](/visa/passport/benin)