Gambia passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of the Gambia

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (TRV)

Citizens of the Gambia 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)
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$22 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Proof of sufficient funds for stay and return

How to apply

1
Determine if you need a visa
Gambian passport holders require a visitor visa (TRV) for Canada.
2
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per the checklist above.
3
Pay the visa and biometrics fee
Pay CAD 100 processing fee + CAD 85 biometrics fee online via IRCC portal.
4
Submit application online or by paper
Complete the IRCC online application or submit at VFS Global in person.
5
Receive biometric instruction letter (BIL)
After submission, you will get a BIL within 24-48 hours.
6
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global or visa application centre (VAC).
7
Attend biometrics appointment in person
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the VAC nearest to you.
8
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 14-30 days; you may be contacted for an interview or additional docs.
9
Passport submission (if approved)
If approved, you will be asked to submit your passport for visa sticker.
10
Receive visa and travel
Collect passport with visa or have it couriered to you. Check the visa validity.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
Two recent passport-size photographs
Meets Canada photo specifications
Travel itinerary / round-trip flight reservation
Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host in Canada
If visiting friends/family, include invitation letter

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, pay stubs, etc.)
Recent 3-6 months

Employment

Letter of employment or proof of ties to home country
To demonstrate intention to return

Supporting

Completed and signed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Family information form (IMM 5645 or IMM 5707)
Schedule 1 (if applicable)
Optional
Biometric instruction letter (after fee payment)
Visa application fee receipt (biometrics + processing)
Additional documents may be requested by visa officer
Optional
e.g., prior visas, itinerary details
Copy of national ID
Optional
If available
Police clearance certificate (if requested)
Optional
May be requested for certain applicants

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: CAD 3,000 - 5,000 for typical trip

Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Pay stubs
Tax returns
Sponsor letter + sponsor financials

Must cover travel, accommodation, and return.

Good to know

Biometrics are mandatory and must be done in person – no exceptions.
Processing times vary – apply well in advance (at least 1 month before travel).
Incomplete applications will be returned or delayed.
Visa does not guarantee entry – final decision at port of entry.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or lack of proof of financial ability

Provide robust bank statements, pay slips, and sponsor letter if needed.

Weak ties to home country (Gambia)

Submit employment letter, property documents, family ties, and return flight booking.

Incomplete or incorrect application forms

Double-check all forms, signatures, and supporting documents.

Criminal record or security concerns

Obtain police certificate and explain any history fully.

Previous visa refusal or overstay in any country

Be honest about past; provide explanation letter if applicable.

FAQ

Do citizens of the Gambia need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of the Gambia need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visitor Visa (TRV).

How long can citizens of the Gambia stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: CA$100 + CA$22 service fee.

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 14–30 days.

What documents do citizens of the Gambia need for Canada?

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity, 2 blank pages); Two recent passport-size photographs; Completed and signed visa application form (IMM 5257); Family information form (IMM 5645 or IMM 5707); Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, pay stubs, etc.); Travel itinerary / round-trip flight reservation; 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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