---
title: Canada visa for citizens of Botswana
description: "Citizens of Botswana 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$40 service fee. Processing: 14–30 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/canada/botswana
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Canada visa for citizens of Botswana

Citizens of Botswana 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 · Temporary Resident Visa (Tourist)
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 180 days
- **Entries:** Multiple entry
- **Processing time:** 14–30 days
- **Government fee:** CA$100 + CA$40 service fee
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Not required
- **Proof of funds:** Show sufficient funds for your stay (e.g., bank statements, pay stubs).

## How to apply

1. **Determine eligibility** — Check if you need a visa and which type applies to your visit.
2. **Gather required documents** — Collect all documents listed above.
3. **Complete the application form** — Fill out IMM 5257 online or manually.
4. **Pay the fees** — Pay the visa processing fee and biometrics fee online.
5. **Submit your application** — Submit online via IRCC portal or in person at VFS Global.
6. **Book a biometrics appointment** — Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global centre.
7. **Attend biometrics appointment** — Provide fingerprints and photo at the centre.
8. **Wait for processing** — Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks.
9. **Submit passport if approved** — If approved, send your passport for visa stamping.
10. **Receive your visa** — Collect your passport with the visa sticker.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
- **Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)** (Identity): Fill out online or print and sign.
- **Two recent passport-sized photos** (Identity): Meet Canadian photo specifications.
- **Proof of financial support** (Financial): Bank statements, pay stubs, or sponsorship letter.
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel, optional): Flight bookings and accommodation details.
- **Employment letter** (Employment): Stating your position, salary, and approved leave.
- **Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)** (Supporting, optional): From host in Canada with their status proof.
- **Proof of ties to home country** (Supporting): e.g., property deeds, family certificates, job contract.
- **Biometrics fee receipt** (Identity): Pay when submitting application.
- **Visa application fee receipt** (Identity): Proof of payment.

## Proof of funds

- **Minimum balance:** CAD 2,500 per person for a short stay
- Bank statements
- Pay stubs
- Sponsorship letter

Funds must be readily available and show history.

## Good to know

- Apply well in advance of your travel date.
- Incomplete applications may be returned or delayed.
- Biometrics are mandatory for all applicants aged 14-79.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient proof of ties to home country** — Provide strong evidence of employment, family, or property.
- **Inadequate financial documentation** — Show sufficient funds and a clear source.
- **Misrepresentation or incomplete forms** — Double-check all answers and provide truthful information.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of Botswana need a visa for Canada?

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

### How long can citizens of Botswana stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

### How much does the Canada visa cost for citizens of Botswana?

Government fee: CA$100 + CA$40 service fee.

### How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 14–30 days.

### What documents do citizens of Botswana need for Canada?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Two recent passport-sized photos; Proof of financial support; Employment letter; Proof of ties to home country; and 4 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 Botswana passport holders](/visa/passport/botswana)