Philippines passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of the Philippines

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of the Philippines need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-06-29. 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 183 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Government fee	CA$100
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 tax returns showing sufficient funds for the trip

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per the document checklist, including passport, photos, financial proofs, and invitation letters if any.
2
Complete the visa application form
Fill out IMM 5257 online, print and sign it. Ensure no fields are left blank.
3
Pay the visa processing fee
Pay CAD 100 online via the IRCC portal and keep the receipt.
4
Pay the biometrics fee
Pay CAD 85 for biometrics and include the receipt with your application.
5
Submit the online application or apply through VAC
Upload all documents on the IRCC portal, or submit a paper application at the nearest Canada Visa Application Centre (VAC).
6
Book and attend biometrics appointment
After submission, book an appointment at a VAC to give fingerprints and photo. Bring passport and appointment confirmation.
7
Wait for processing
Processing times vary; check IRCC processing times online.
8
Passport submission (if requested)
If approved, you may need to submit your passport at a VAC for visa stamping. This may involve a courier service.
9
Receive decision and visa
You'll be notified by email. If approved, collect your passport with the visa sticker from the VAC or via courier.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid Philippine passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Canada
Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Download and fill electronically from IRCC website
Two recent passport-sized photos
Must meet IRCC photo specifications
Biometrics fee receipt
Proof of payment for biometrics collection (CAD 85)
Visa application fee receipt
Proof of payment of CAD 100 visa processing fee
Previous passport(s) or travel history
Optional
If you have visited Canada or other countries before

Travel

Travel itinerary
Flight reservations, hotel bookings, and a detailed day-to-day plan
Round-trip flight reservation
Shows you intend to leave Canada after your visit

Financial

Proof of financial support
Bank statements from the last 4–6 months, pay stubs, or tax returns

Employment

Employment letter
From your employer stating your position, salary, and approved leave
Leave approval document
Optional
If applicable, to show you are permitted time off

Supporting

Letter of invitation
Optional
From a host in Canada, if staying with family or friends
Proof of host's status in Canada
Optional
Copy of the host's Canadian passport or permanent resident card
Purpose of visit explanation
A letter explaining the reason for your visit and ties to the Philippines

Proof of funds

Bank statements
Pay stubs
Tax returns
Proof of property or investments

You must demonstrate you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Canada and return travel.

Good to know

Biometrics and appointments are mandatory.
Processing times can be lengthy; apply well in advance of your planned travel.
Incomplete applications will be returned or refused.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of funds

Provide clear bank statements, pay stubs, and supporting financial documents.

Insufficient ties to the Philippines

Show proof of employment, property ownership, or family responsibilities that compel your return.

Incomplete or inconsistent application

Fill all sections of the form, double-check information, and include all required documents.

FAQ

Do citizens of the Philippines need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of the Philippines 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 Philippines stay in Canada?

Up to 183 days.

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

Government fee: CA$100.

What documents do citizens of the Philippines need for Canada?

Valid Philippine passport; Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Two recent passport-sized photos; Proof of financial support; Travel itinerary; Round-trip flight reservation; 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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