---
title: Canada visa for citizens of Russia
description: "Citizens of Russia need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: CA$100. Processing: 20–60 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/canada/russia
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Canada visa for citizens of Russia

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

- **Valid Russian passport** (Identity): At least 6 months validity beyond planned stay
- **Visa application form (IMM 5257) completed online** (Identity)
- **Two recent passport-size photos** (Identity): Meet Canadian visa photo specifications
- **Biometrics enrollment receipt** (Identity): Biometrics valid for 10 years
- **Proof of onward/return flight booking** (Travel): Itinerary showing entry and exit
- **Hotel reservations or accommodation proof** (Travel): For entire stay in Canada
- **Bank statements last 6 months** (Financial): Showing sufficient funds
- **Proof of employment (letter from employer)** (Employment): Stating position, salary, and approved leave
- **ITIN or pay stubs** (Financial, optional): If self-employed, provide business registration
- **Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)** (Supporting, optional): From host in Canada; not mandatory for tourism
- **Travel medical insurance (recommended)** (Supporting, optional): Coverage of at least CAD 50,000
- **Marriage certificate (if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): To prove ties to home country
- **Property ownership documents** (Supporting, optional): To demonstrate strong ties to Russia
- **Visa fee payment receipt** (Financial): Paid online or at VAC

## 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.

## FAQs

### 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.

## More

- [Canada visa for every passport](/visa/canada)
- [Every destination for Russia passport holders](/visa/passport/russia)