Saudi Arabia passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Saudi Arabia

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of Saudi Arabia 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
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required

How to apply

1
Identify visa type
Choose the right immigration program (e.g., visitor visa).
2
Submit your application and pay your fees
Complete your application, pay IRCC fees, and submit it to IRCC.
3
Wait for your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
IRCC will contact you when it's time to enroll your biometrics.
4
Book a VAC appointment
Schedule an appointment at your nearest Visa Application Centre.
5
Visit the VAC
Visit the VAC to enroll your biometrics and submit any documents.
6
Check your application status
Stay informed about the progress of your application.
7
Wait for your passport request letter
IRCC will send a letter requesting your passport and additional documents.
8
Submit your passport and documents through the VAC
Use the VAC to send your passport to IRCC.
9
Collect your passport and application decision
Get your documents back from the VAC.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid travel document (passport)
Must be valid for the duration of your stay.
Completed application form (IMM 5257)
Obtain from IRCC website.
Passport-size photos
Must meet IRCC specifications.

Travel

Travel itinerary
Include hotel bookings and flight reservations.

Financial

Proof of financial means
Bank statements, pay stubs, or proof of assets.

Supporting

Proof of ties to home country
Employment letter, property ownership, or family ties in Saudi Arabia.
Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
Issued by IRCC after you submit your application.
Cover letter (optional)
Optional
Explain purpose of visit and ties to home country.

Good to know

Biometric enrollment requires a personal appearance at a VAC.
Visa processing times vary and can be long; apply well in advance.
IRCC may request additional documents depending on your situation.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient proof of ties to home country

Provide strong evidence of employment, family, or property in Saudi Arabia.

Inadequate financial proof

Submit detailed bank statements and proof of sufficient funds.

Incomplete application or missing documents

Double-check application form and checklist before submission.

FAQ

Do citizens of Saudi Arabia need a visa for Canada?

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

What documents do citizens of Saudi Arabia need for Canada?

Valid travel document (passport); Proof of financial means; Travel itinerary; Proof of ties to home country; Completed application form (IMM 5257); Passport-size photos; and 2 more.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

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