Mexico passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Mexico

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of Mexico 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	15–30 days
Government fee	CA$100 + CA$30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Show sufficient funds for stay and return

How to apply

1
Determine eligibility
Check if you qualify for eTA (if you have a US visa or previous Canadian visa) or need a full visitor visa.
2
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per the checklist.
3
Complete application form
Fill out IMM 5257 online or by hand.
4
Pay fees online
Pay the visa processing fee and biometrics fee via the IRCC portal.
5
Submit application
Submit the application online or at a VFS Global centre.
6
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global centre to provide fingerprints and photo.
7
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit the VFS centre in person to enroll biometrics.
8
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15-30 days.
9
Receive decision
You will be notified by email or mail.
10
Collect passport with visa
If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Meet Canadian photo specifications
Biometrics fee receipt
Paid online before appointment
Visa application fee receipt
Birth certificate (for minors)
Optional
If traveling with children

Travel

Travel itinerary
Flight reservations and accommodation details
Proof of onward/return ticket

Financial

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

Employment

Employment letter or proof of ties to Mexico
To demonstrate return intention

Supporting

Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)
Optional
From host in Canada
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Optional
For accompanying spouse
Police clearance certificate (if requested)
Optional
May be required for some applicants
Medical exam results (if requested)
Optional
For stays over 6 months or specific cases

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: CAD 2,500 (approx.)

Bank statements
Pay stubs
Sponsorship letter

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay and return travel.

Good to know

If you hold a valid US non-immigrant visa or have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years, you may be eligible for an eTA instead of a full visa when flying to Canada.
Land and sea arrivals from Mexico always require a visitor visa, not eTA.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial proof

Provide clear bank statements and proof of income.

Weak ties to home country

Include employment letter, property deeds, or family ties in Mexico.

Incomplete application

Double-check all forms and documents before submission.

FAQ

Do citizens of Mexico need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of Mexico 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 Mexico stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: CA$100 + CA$30 service fee.

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 15–30 days.

What documents do citizens of Mexico need for Canada?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Two recent passport-sized photographs; Proof of financial means; Travel itinerary; Employment letter or proof of ties to Mexico; 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

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