Maldives passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of the Maldives

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of the Maldives 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 180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	14–60 days
Government fee	CA$100 + CA$10 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	CAD$2,500 per person minimum

How to apply

1
Determine if you need a visa
Maldives passport holders require a visitor visa for Canada.
2
Gather required documents
Collect all supporting documents listed above.
3
Complete the visa application form (IMM 5257)
Fill online or print and sign.
4
Pay processing and biometric fees online
Use the IRCC fee payment portal; fee is CAD$100 processing + CAD$85 biometrics.
5
Book and attend biometrics appointment
Visit a VFS Global centre in Male or nearest location to give fingerprints and photo.
6
Submit application and documents at VFS centre
Bring all originals and copies to the visa application centre.
7
Wait for processing
Average processing time is 2–8 weeks.
8
Collect passport (if approved)
VFS will notify you; collect in person or via courier.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport
At least 2 blank pages and validity beyond stay
Travel itinerary
Round-trip flight booking and accommodation details
Travel medical insurance
Optional
Recommended but not mandatory

Financial

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

Employment

Employment letter or proof of ties
Show you will return to Maldives

Supporting

Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Biometrics fee receipt
Pay online and bring receipt to appointment
Two recent passport-sized photos
Meet IRCC photo specifications
Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
Optional
Include host’s Canadian status proof
Marriage certificate or birth certificate (if accompanying spouse/child)
Optional
Proof of relationship
Police clearance certificate
Optional
May be requested during processing
Medical exam report
Optional
Only if staying over 6 months or specific conditions
Family information form (IMM 5645)
Consent form for minor (if applicable)
Optional
Both parents must sign if minor travelling alone

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: CAD$2,500

bank statements
pay slips
sponsor letter
fixed deposit certificates

Sufficient funds for entire stay and return ticket.

Good to know

Biometrics are mandatory and must be done in person at a VFS centre; appointment must be booked online.
Processing times can be longer during peak seasons; apply well in advance.
Ensure passport has at least 6 months validity.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country (Maldives)

Provide strong evidence of employment, family, or property.

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and signatures.

Inadequate financial proof

Show consistent income and enough funds.

Previous immigration violations

Be honest; include explanation if overstayed.

FAQ

Do citizens of the Maldives need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of the Maldives 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 the Maldives stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: CA$100 + CA$10 service fee.

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 14–60 days.

What documents do citizens of the Maldives need for Canada?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Biometrics fee receipt; Two recent passport-sized photos; Proof of financial means; Travel itinerary; 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

Plan your trip to Canada

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way. Need data on arrival? See the Nowah eSIM guide for Canada.

Plan the trip in Nowah All visa guides