São Tomé and Príncipe passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe 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	At least CAD $2,500 per person

How to apply

1
Gather required documents
Collect all documents listed above, including passport photos and financial proof.
2
Complete visa application form
Fill out IMM 5257 and IMM 5645 (if applicable) online or by hand.
3
Pay fees and receive biometric instruction letter
Pay the CAD $100 government fee plus service fee (approx. CAD $30) via VFS Global.
4
Submit application and documents to VFS Global
Submit your application package at the VFS Global centre in your region (or by mail).
5
Schedule and attend biometrics appointment
Book an appointment at a VAC (Visa Application Centre) to provide fingerprints and photo.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15–30 days. Check application status online.
7
Receive decision and passport instruction
If approved, VFS will return your passport with the visa vignette.
8
Prepare for travel
Ensure passport has visa sticker; carry a copy of your travel itinerary and invitation letter.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Download from IRCC website.
Family information form (IMM 5645)
If applicable.
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Meet Canadian photo specifications.
Biometric instruction letter (after application submission)
Required to schedule biometrics appointment.
Proof of residence or status in São Tomé and Príncipe
If applying from a third country.

Travel

Travel itinerary
Round-trip flight booking and accommodation details.
Proof of onward/return travel
Confirmed flight bookings.

Financial

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

Employment

Employment letter or proof of studies
Shows ties to home country.

Supporting

Letter of invitation (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
From host in Canada, including their status and contact.
Visa application fee receipt
Proof of payment of government and service fees.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: CAD 2,500 per person

Bank statements
Pay stubs
Letter of employment
Sponsorship letter

Must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover stay and return travel.

Good to know

US permanent residents (Green Card holders) can enter Canada visa-free.
Incomplete applications may lead to delays or rejection.
Biometrics must be provided at a designated VAC.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial proof

Provide clear bank statements and any sponsorship letters showing adequate funds.

Weak ties to home country

Include proof of employment, property, or family commitments in São Tomé and Príncipe.

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and include all required signatures.

FAQ

Do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe 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 São Tomé and Príncipe stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the Canada visa cost for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe?

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

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 15–30 days.

What documents do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need for Canada?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Family information form (IMM 5645); Two recent passport-sized photographs; Proof of financial means; Travel itinerary; and 6 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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