Iraq passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Iraq

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of Iraq 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 (Temporary Resident Visa)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 182 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Government fee	CA$100
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Proof of funds	Bank statements showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Determine eligibility and prepare documents
Check if you need a visitor visa and gather required documents.
2
Complete the online application form
Fill IMM 5257 and upload digital copies of documents.
3
Pay the visa fee and biometrics fee
Pay CAD 100 visa fee plus CAD 85 biometrics fee online.
4
Submit the application online
Submit through IRCC secure portal.
5
Book a biometrics appointment
Schedule an appointment at a VAC to give fingerprints and photo.
6
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit VAC in person with passport and biometric instruction letter.
7
Wait for processing
Processing times vary; check IRCC website.
8
Receive decision and passport request
If approved, submit passport for visa sticker (if required).
9
Submit passport to VAC
Send passport by mail or drop off at VAC for visa stamping.
10
Collect passport with visa
Receive passport back with visitor visa.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport (must be valid for duration of stay)
Passport must have at least one blank page.
Travel itinerary or flight booking
Optional
Not mandatory but recommended.

Financial

Proof of funds (bank statements, pay stubs, etc.)
Sufficient to cover stay and return.

Employment

Employment letter or proof of ties to Iraq
Optional
Shows intention to return.

Supporting

Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Fill online via IRCC portal.
Two recent passport-sized photos
Must meet Canada photo specifications.
Letter of invitation (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
Include host's contact and proof of status.
Biometrics instruction letter (BIL)
Received after application submission.
Visa application centre (VAC) consent form
Required if applying via VAC.

Proof of funds

Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Pay slips
Tax returns
Proof of assets

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay and return.

Good to know

Canada may refuse visa if ties to Iraq are insufficient.
Biometrics must be given in person at a VAC.
Processing times can be lengthy; apply well in advance.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial means

Provide strong proof of funds and employment.

Weak ties to home country

Submit evidence of family, job, or property in Iraq.

Incomplete or inaccurate application

Double-check all forms and documents for accuracy.

FAQ

Do citizens of Iraq need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of Iraq 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 Iraq stay in Canada?

Up to 182 days.

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

Government fee: CA$100.

What documents do citizens of Iraq need for Canada?

Valid passport (must be valid for duration of stay); Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Two recent passport-sized photos; Proof of funds (bank statements, pay stubs, etc.); Biometrics instruction letter (BIL); Visa application centre (VAC) consent form; and 3 more depending on your situation.

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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