---
title: Canada visa for citizens of Lesotho
description: Citizens of Lesotho need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Documents checklist and application steps.
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/canada/lesotho
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Canada visa for citizens of Lesotho

Citizens of Lesotho 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
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Bank statements, pay stubs, or proof of assets

## How to apply

1. **Determine eligibility and gather documents** — Check IRCC website for visitor visa requirements and prepare all required documents.
2. **Complete online application** — Fill out the application form (IMM 5257) on the IRCC portal and upload supporting documents.
3. **Pay application and biometrics fees** — Pay the visa processing fee (CAD 100) and biometrics fee (CAD 85) online via IRCC.
4. **Book biometrics appointment** — After submitting, book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and photo.
5. **Attend biometrics appointment** — Visit the VAC in person to enroll biometrics; bring passport and appointment confirmation.
6. **Wait for processing** — IRCC processes the application; processing time varies (check IRCC website for current estimates).
7. **Submit passport (if approved)** — If visa is approved, submit your passport to the VAC for visa stamping (if required).
8. **Receive passport with visa** — Collect your passport from the VAC or have it couriered back with the visa affixed.
9. **Travel to Canada** — Present your passport with visa at the port of entry; border officer may ask for additional documents.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond planned stay
- **Passport-sized photographs** (Identity): Two recent photos meeting IRCC specifications
- **Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)** (Identity): Fill online via IRCC portal
- **Proof of financial support** (Financial): Bank statements, pay stubs, or letter of employment
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel): Flight reservations and accommodation details
- **Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)** (Supporting, optional): From host in Canada with proof of status
- **Employment letter or proof of ties to home country** (Employment): To demonstrate intention to return
- **Biometrics fee receipt** (Supporting): Proof of payment for biometrics enrollment
- **Visa application fee receipt** (Supporting): Proof of payment of processing fee
- **Marriage certificate (if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): For accompanying spouse
- **Birth certificate (for minors)** (Identity, optional): If applying with children
- **Police clearance certificate (if requested)** (Supporting, optional): May be required for certain applicants
- **Medical exam results (if requested)** (Supporting, optional): May be required for long stays or specific countries
- **Proof of travel insurance** (Travel, optional): Recommended but not mandatory

## Proof of funds

- Bank statements
- Pay stubs
- Letter of employment
- Tax returns

Sufficient funds to cover stay and return; amount varies by trip length and accommodation.

## Good to know

- Biometrics are mandatory for Lesotho citizens; must be done in person at a VAC.
- Processing times can be lengthy; apply well in advance of planned travel.
- Visa does not guarantee entry; final decision at port of entry.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient financial proof** — Provide clear bank statements showing adequate funds for the trip.
- **Weak ties to home country** — Include employment letter, property ownership, or family ties to demonstrate return intention.
- **Incomplete application or missing documents** — Double-check document checklist and ensure all forms are filled correctly.
- **Previous immigration violations** — Be honest about history; provide explanation if applicable.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of Lesotho need a visa for Canada?

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

### What documents do citizens of Lesotho need for Canada?

Valid passport; Passport-sized photographs; Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Proof of financial support; Travel itinerary; Employment letter or proof of ties to home country; and 8 more.

### How long must my passport be valid for Canada?

At least 6 months.

## More

- [Canada visa for every passport](/visa/canada)
- [Every destination for Lesotho passport holders](/visa/passport/lesotho)