South Africa passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Citizens of South Africa 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	26–39 days
Government fee	CA$100 + CA$24.97 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Show sufficient funds for your stay in Canada and return to South Africa.

How to apply

1
Determine if you need a visa
South African passport holders require a visitor visa to enter Canada.
2
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents including a valid passport (no temporary passports), photos, and financial proof.
3
Complete online application
Fill out IMM 5257 and IMM 5645 forms via the IRCC portal.
4
Pay fees online
Pay the visa processing fee ($100 CAD) and biometrics fee ($85 CAD).
5
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global Visa Application Centre in South Africa.
6
Submit biometrics and documents
Attend the appointment in person; provide fingerprints, photo, and original documents.
7
Wait for processing
Standard processing time is 26–39 days.
8
Passport submission
If approved, submit your passport for visa stamping (via VFS).
9
Receive visa and travel
Visa is usually valid for up to 10 years or until passport expiry; max stay 180 days per entry.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid South African passport (not temporary passport)
Temporary passports are not accepted.
Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Family Information form (IMM 5645)
Passport-size photographs (2)
Must meet Canadian photo specifications.
Biometrics fee receipt
Pay online before appointment.
Visa application fee payment receipt

Travel

Travel itinerary or flight booking
Round-trip or onward ticket not required but recommended.
Hotel reservations or letter of invitation
Proof of accommodation in Canada.

Financial

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

Employment

Employer letter or proof of employment
Optional
To show ties to South Africa.

Supporting

Letter of invitation from host in Canada (if applicable)
Optional
Not mandatory but strengthens application.
Travel history (passport copies showing previous visas and stamps)
Optional
If applicable.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: At least CAD $2,000 per person (recommended)

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Pay stubs
Letter of employment
Sponsorship letter with sponsor's financial documents

Proof of funds must show you can support yourself and return to South Africa.

Good to know

Temporary passports issued by South Africa are not accepted.
Holders of Right of Abode to the UK with a Certificate of Entitlement do not require a visa.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial proof

Provide bank statements showing adequate funds and ties to South Africa.

Incomplete application or missing documents

Double-check the document checklist before submission.

Previous overstay or immigration violation

Honestly disclose travel history; provide explanation if needed.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of South Africa 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 South Africa stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the Canada visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: CA$100 + CA$24.97 service fee.

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 26–39 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Canada?

Valid South African passport (not temporary passport); Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Family Information form (IMM 5645); Passport-size photographs (2); Proof of financial means; Travel itinerary or flight booking; 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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