Iran passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Iran

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (TRV) · Tourist

Citizens of Iran 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) · Tourist
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	Required
Proof of funds	Show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay and return

How to apply

1
Determine eligibility
Check if you need a visa; Iran passport requires visitor visa
2
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents including passport, photos, and proof of funds
3
Apply online or on paper
Submit application via IRCC portal or paper form to VFS Global
4
Pay visa fees
Pay CAD 100 (plus biometrics fee if applicable) online
5
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule appointment at a VAC (Visa Application Centre) in Iran
6
Attend biometrics appointment
Go in person to provide fingerprints and photo
7
Submit passport and documents (if paper)
Mail or drop off passport and supporting documents as instructed
8
Wait for processing
Processing times vary; check IRCC website
9
Receive decision and visa
Passport will be returned stamped with visa if approved

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid Iranian passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
Completed visitor visa application form (IMM 5257)
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Must meet Canadian photo specifications
Travel itinerary or flight reservation
Hotel booking or accommodation proof

Financial

Proof of financial means
Bank statements, pay stubs, or sponsorship letter

Employment

Employment letter or proof of ties to Iran
Shows intention to return home

Supporting

Family information form (IMM 5645)
Letter of invitation (if applicable)
Optional
From a Canadian host with proof of status
Proof of medical insurance
Optional
Recommended but not mandatory
Biometric instruction letter (BIL) after payment
Needed to book biometrics appointment

Proof of funds

Bank statements last 4 months
Pay stubs
Letter from employer
Sponsorship letter from Canadian host

Show sufficient funds to cover stay and return

Good to know

Visa applications from Iran often face longer processing times and extra scrutiny.
Biometrics are mandatory for all applicants aged 14-79.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial ties to Iran

Provide strong evidence of employment, property, or family commitments in Iran.

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all forms and ensure no fields left blank.

Lack of travel history or unclear purpose of visit

Include detailed itinerary and supporting documents for purpose.

FAQ

Do citizens of Iran need a visa for Canada?

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

How long can citizens of Iran stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: CA$100.

What documents do citizens of Iran need for Canada?

Valid Iranian passport; Completed visitor visa application form (IMM 5257); Family information form (IMM 5645); Two recent passport-sized photographs; Proof of financial means; Travel itinerary or flight reservation; and 5 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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