Eritrea passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Eritrea

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (TRV) • Up to 6 months

Citizens of Eritrea 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 (TRV) • Up to 6 months
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Government fee	CA$100
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 stay

How to apply

1
Determine eligibility
Check if you need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) on the IRCC website.
2
Complete the application form
Fill out IMM 5257 for visitor visa online or by hand.
3
Gather supporting documents
Collect passport, photos, proof of funds, itinerary, ties to Eritrea, and invitation letter if applicable.
4
Pay fees
Pay the $100 CAD visitor visa fee and $85 CAD biometrics fee online.
5
Submit application and biometrics appointment
Submit application via VFS Global and schedule a biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Centre.
6
Attend biometrics appointment
Go to the designated VAC in person to provide fingerprints and photo.
7
Wait for processing
Processing time varies; you may be contacted for an interview.
8
Receive decision
If approved, your passport will be stamped with a visitor visa.
9
Travel to Canada
Present your valid visa and passport upon arrival.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
Travel itinerary
Flight reservations and accommodation details

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statements, pay stubs, or sponsor letter

Employment

Employment letter
Optional
Showing job status and approved leave

Supporting

Completed application form (IMM 5257)
Available from IRCC website
Two recent passport-size photos
Meet IRCC photo specifications
Purpose of visit letter
Explain why you are visiting Canada
Proof of ties to Eritrea
Employment, property, family to show return intention
Biometrics receipt
Pay biometrics fee and bring appointment confirmation
Family information form (IMM 5645)
If applicable, for your family
Copy of previous visas
Optional
If you have traveled before
Letter of invitation
Optional
If visiting friends/family
Police clearance certificate
Optional
May be requested at interview
Medical exam certificate
Optional
May be required for stays over 6 months

Proof of funds

Bank statements
Pay stubs
Sponsor letter
Bank draft

Must show enough funds to cover stay and return travel

Good to know

Eritrean passport holders may face additional scrutiny; ensure all documents are complete.
Biometrics fee is non-refundable if application is refused.
Processing times can be several weeks; apply well in advance.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds

Provide clear proof of adequate financial resources.

Weak ties to home country

Submit documents proving employment, family, or property in Eritrea.

Incomplete application

Fill out all forms completely and include all required documents.

Previous visa refusal or overstay

Explain circumstances honestly and show improvements.

FAQ

Do citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visitor Visa (TRV) • Up to 6 months.

How long can citizens of Eritrea stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: CA$100.

What documents do citizens of Eritrea need for Canada?

Valid passport; Completed application form (IMM 5257); Two recent passport-size photos; Proof of sufficient funds; Travel itinerary; Purpose of visit letter; 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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