China passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of China

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

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

Not yet verified

Our latest check could not confirm these details against an official source, or found a conflict. Treat them as a starting point and confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you book.

Last checked 2026-08-16. 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	14–30 days
Government fee	CA$100
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements, pay stubs, or proof of assets showing sufficient funds for the stay

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as listed above, including passport, photos, financial proof, and itinerary.
2
Complete online application
3
Pay the application fee
Pay the CAD 100 visa fee online via the IRCC portal.
4
Book biometrics appointment
After submitting the application, book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in China for biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
5
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit the VAC in person with your passport and appointment confirmation to provide biometrics.
6
Submit passport and documents
After biometrics, submit your passport and all supporting documents to the VAC (by mail or in person as instructed).
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 14-30 days. You can track your application online.
8
Receive decision and passport
If approved, your passport with visa will be returned via courier or pickup at the VAC.
9
Travel to Canada
Present your passport with visa at the border. Maximum stay is 180 days per entry.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages)
Original and photocopy of the bio-data page
Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Download from IRCC website and fill electronically
Two recent passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm)
With white background, name and date of birth on back
Biometrics appointment confirmation
After submitting application, book and attend biometrics at a Visa Application Centre
Family information form (IMM 5645)
For applicants 18 years or older
Schedule 1 (if applicable)
Optional
For certain applicants with specific backgrounds

Travel

Travel itinerary or flight reservation
Round-trip flight booking or detailed travel plan
Hotel reservation or accommodation proof
For the entire stay in Canada

Financial

Proof of financial support
Bank statements for the last 3-6 months, pay stubs, or proof of assets
Visa application fee payment receipt
Pay online or at the VAC

Employment

Employment letter or proof of ties to China
To demonstrate intention to return (e.g., job letter, property deeds)

Supporting

Letter of invitation (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
From host in Canada, including their status and contact details

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of CAD 2,000 per month of stay

Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Pay stubs
Proof of assets (property, investments)
Sponsor letter (if applicable)

Must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover travel, accommodation, and living expenses.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; final decision is made by Canada Border Services Agency upon arrival.
Overstaying the authorized period may result in future inadmissibility.
Transit without a visa is only allowed at specific airports under strict conditions (see note).

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial proof

Provide clear bank statements and proof of stable income for at least 3 months.

Weak ties to home country

Submit employment letter, property deeds, or family ties to demonstrate intention to return.

Incomplete or incorrect application

Double-check all forms and documents before submission; use the official checklist.

Previous immigration violations

Disclose any past overstays or refusals honestly; provide explanation if needed.

FAQ

Do citizens of China need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of China 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 China stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: CA$100.

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 14–30 days.

What documents do citizens of China need for Canada?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages); Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Two recent passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm); Proof of financial support; Travel itinerary or flight reservation; Hotel reservation or accommodation proof; and 6 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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