---
title: Canada visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: CA$100 + CA$24.97 service fee. Processing: 26–39 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/canada/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Canada visa for citizens of South Africa

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.*

Application site: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html

## 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

- **Valid South African passport (not temporary passport)** (Identity): Temporary passports are not accepted.
- **Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)** (Identity)
- **Family Information form (IMM 5645)** (Identity)
- **Passport-size photographs (2)** (Identity): Must meet Canadian photo specifications.
- **Proof of financial means** (Financial): Bank statements, pay stubs, or sponsorship letter.
- **Travel itinerary or flight booking** (Travel): Round-trip or onward ticket not required but recommended.
- **Hotel reservations or letter of invitation** (Travel): Proof of accommodation in Canada.
- **Letter of invitation from host in Canada (if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): Not mandatory but strengthens application.
- **Employer letter or proof of employment** (Employment, optional): To show ties to South Africa.
- **Travel history (passport copies showing previous visas and stamps)** (Supporting, optional): If applicable.
- **Biometrics fee receipt** (Identity): Pay online before appointment.
- **Visa application fee payment receipt** (Identity)

## 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html)

## More

- [Canada visa for every passport](/visa/canada)
- [Every destination for South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)