---
title: Canada visa for citizens of the Philippines
description: "Citizens of the Philippines need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 183 days. Fee: CA$100. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/canada/philippines
lastModified: 2026-06-29
---

# Canada visa for citizens of the Philippines

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.*

Application site: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html

## 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

- **Valid Philippine passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Canada
- **Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)** (Identity): Download and fill electronically from IRCC website
- **Two recent passport-sized photos** (Identity): Must meet IRCC photo specifications
- **Proof of financial support** (Financial): Bank statements from the last 4–6 months, pay stubs, or tax returns
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel): Flight reservations, hotel bookings, and a detailed day-to-day plan
- **Round-trip flight reservation** (Travel): Shows you intend to leave Canada after your visit
- **Employment letter** (Employment): From your employer stating your position, salary, and approved leave
- **Leave approval document** (Employment, optional): If applicable, to show you are permitted time off
- **Letter of invitation** (Supporting, optional): From a host in Canada, if staying with family or friends
- **Proof of host's status in Canada** (Supporting, optional): Copy of the host's Canadian passport or permanent resident card
- **Purpose of visit explanation** (Supporting): A letter explaining the reason for your visit and ties to the Philippines
- **Biometrics fee receipt** (Identity): Proof of payment for biometrics collection (CAD 85)
- **Visa application fee receipt** (Identity): Proof of payment of CAD 100 visa processing fee
- **Previous passport(s) or travel history** (Identity, optional): If you have visited Canada or other countries before

## 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html)

## More

- [Canada visa for every passport](/visa/canada)
- [Every destination for Philippines passport holders](/visa/passport/philippines)
