---
title: Canada visa for citizens of Iraq
description: "Citizens of Iraq need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 182 days. Fee: CA$100. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/canada/iraq
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Canada visa for citizens of Iraq

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.*

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

## 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

- **Valid passport (must be valid for duration of stay)** (Travel): Passport must have at least one blank page.
- **Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)** (Supporting): Fill online via IRCC portal.
- **Two recent passport-sized photos** (Supporting): Must meet Canada photo specifications.
- **Proof of funds (bank statements, pay stubs, etc.)** (Financial): Sufficient to cover stay and return.
- **Travel itinerary or flight booking** (Travel, optional): Not mandatory but recommended.
- **Letter of invitation (if visiting friends/family)** (Supporting, optional): Include host's contact and proof of status.
- **Employment letter or proof of ties to Iraq** (Employment, optional): Shows intention to return.
- **Biometrics instruction letter (BIL)** (Supporting): Received after application submission.
- **Visa application centre (VAC) consent form** (Supporting): 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.

## FAQs

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

## More

- [Canada visa for every passport](/visa/canada)
- [Every destination for Iraq passport holders](/visa/passport/iraq)