Russia passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Russia

Embassy / VFSVisa · Visitor (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of Russia 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 · Visa · Visitor (Temporary Resident Visa)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	20–60 days
Government fee	CA$100
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	CAD 2,500 per month of stay

How to apply

1
Gather required documents
Collect all identity, financial, travel, and supporting documents as per checklist.
2
Fill out visa application online
Complete the IMM 5257 form on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
3
Pay visa processing fee
Pay CAD 100 visa fee online; biometrics fee is separate (CAD 85).
4
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule an in-person appointment at a VAC or Canadian embassy through the online system.
5
Attend biometrics appointment
Travel to the VAC/embassy; provide fingerprints and photo. Bring passport and appointment receipt.
6
Submit physical application (if required)
Some VACs may require original passport and documents in person at the time of biometrics.
7
Await processing
Processing time typically 20–60 days. You may be called for an interview at the embassy.
8
Attend interview if requested
Interview is not automatic; only if visa officer deems necessary. Bring all original documents.
9
Receive passport with visa
If approved, passport will be returned by courier or you collect at VAC. Visa is a sticker in passport.
10
Travel to Canada
Ensure you present all documents to border officer. Max stay 6 months per entry.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid Russian passport
At least 6 months validity beyond planned stay
Visa application form (IMM 5257) completed online
Two recent passport-size photos
Meet Canadian visa photo specifications
Biometrics enrollment receipt
Biometrics valid for 10 years

Travel

Proof of onward/return flight booking
Itinerary showing entry and exit
Hotel reservations or accommodation proof
For entire stay in Canada

Financial

Bank statements last 6 months
Showing sufficient funds
ITIN or pay stubs
Optional
If self-employed, provide business registration
Visa fee payment receipt
Paid online or at VAC

Employment

Proof of employment (letter from employer)
Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
From host in Canada; not mandatory for tourism
Travel medical insurance (recommended)
Optional
Coverage of at least CAD 50,000
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Optional
To prove ties to home country
Property ownership documents
Optional
To demonstrate strong ties to Russia

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: CAD 2,500 per month of intended stay

bank statements
pay stubs
tax returns
sponsorship letter

Proof of sufficient funds to cover stay and return must be demonstrated.

Good to know

Application may be refused if ties to Russia are not clearly demonstrated.
Biometrics are required and must be done in person; children under 14 may be exempt.
US permanent resident card holders can enter visa-free; do not apply for this visa if you qualify.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country

Provide evidence of employment, property, family, and clear home-country commitments.

Incomplete or inaccurate application

Double-check all fields and attach all required documents; answer truthfully.

Lack of funds

Demonstrate adequate bank balance and reliable source of income.

Unclear purpose of visit

Provide detailed itinerary, invitations, and explanation of planned activities in Canada.

FAQ

Do citizens of Russia need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of Russia need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visa · Visitor (Temporary Resident Visa).

How long can citizens of Russia stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

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

Government fee: CA$100.

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 20–60 days.

What documents do citizens of Russia need for Canada?

Valid Russian passport; Visa application form (IMM 5257) completed online; Two recent passport-size photos; Biometrics enrollment receipt; Proof of onward/return flight booking; Hotel reservations or accommodation proof; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Canada?

At least 6 months.

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