Mauritania passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Mauritania

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of Mauritania 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
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements showing sufficient funds for stay

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per checklist
2
Complete online application
Fill out IMM 5257 on IRCC website and upload documents
3
Pay fees online
Pay visa processing fee (CAD 100) and biometrics fee (CAD 85) via IRCC portal
4
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC)
5
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit VAC in person to provide fingerprints and photograph
6
Submit passport (if requested)
After approval, submit passport to VAC for visa sticker
7
Wait for processing
Processing time varies; check IRCC website for current estimates
8
Collect passport
Collect passport with visa from VAC or receive by courier
9
Travel to Canada
Present visa and supporting documents at port of entry
10
Comply with conditions
Adhere to max stay of 6 months and other visa conditions

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Meet Canadian photo specifications
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Optional
For accompanying spouse
Birth certificate (for minors)
Optional
If traveling with children

Travel

Travel itinerary
Flight reservations and accommodation details

Financial

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

Employment

Employment letter or proof of ties to home country
To demonstrate intent to return

Supporting

Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Fill online via IRCC portal
Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)
Optional
From host in Canada with proof of status
Biometrics fee receipt
Pay CAD 85 for biometrics
Visa application fee receipt
Pay CAD 100 for visitor visa
Copy of previous visas (if any)
Optional
Especially for US, UK, Schengen visas
Police clearance certificate (if requested)
Optional
May be required for certain applicants
Medical exam report (if requested)
Optional
For stays over 6 months or specific countries

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Sufficient funds for entire stay (no fixed amount)

Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Pay stubs
Sponsorship letter
Fixed deposit certificates

Must show ability to cover travel, accommodation, and living expenses

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; final decision by CBSA officer at border
Overstaying may result in removal and future inadmissibility
Biometrics are valid for 10 years for subsequent applications

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial proof

Provide clear bank statements and proof of income

Weak ties to home country

Submit employment letter, property deeds, or family ties

Incomplete application or missing documents

Double-check checklist and submit all required forms

Criminal record or inadmissibility

Disclose any issues and provide police clearance if needed

Previous visa violations

Be honest about past travel history and provide explanation

FAQ

Do citizens of Mauritania need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of Mauritania 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 Mauritania stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

What documents do citizens of Mauritania need for Canada?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages); Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Two recent passport-sized photographs; Proof of financial means; 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.

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