---
title: Canada visa for citizens of Eritrea
description: "Citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: CA$100. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/canada/eritrea
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Canada visa for citizens of Eritrea

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.*

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

## 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

- **Valid passport** (Travel): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
- **Completed application form (IMM 5257)** (Supporting): Available from IRCC website
- **Two recent passport-size photos** (Supporting): Meet IRCC photo specifications
- **Proof of sufficient funds** (Financial): Bank statements, pay stubs, or sponsor letter
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel): Flight reservations and accommodation details
- **Purpose of visit letter** (Supporting): Explain why you are visiting Canada
- **Proof of ties to Eritrea** (Supporting): Employment, property, family to show return intention
- **Biometrics receipt** (Supporting): Pay biometrics fee and bring appointment confirmation
- **Family information form (IMM 5645)** (Supporting): If applicable, for your family
- **Copy of previous visas** (Supporting, optional): If you have traveled before
- **Letter of invitation** (Supporting, optional): If visiting friends/family
- **Employment letter** (Employment, optional): Showing job status and approved leave
- **Police clearance certificate** (Supporting, optional): May be requested at interview
- **Medical exam certificate** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

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

## More

- [Canada visa for every passport](/visa/canada)
- [Every destination for Eritrea passport holders](/visa/passport/eritrea)