Zambia passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Zambia

Embassy / VFSCanada Visitor Visa (TRV)

Citizens of Zambia 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 · Canada Visitor Visa (TRV)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	20–30 days
Government fee	CA$100 + CA$30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Proof of funds	CAD 2,000–5,000 (depends on length of stay)

How to apply

1
Determine eligibility and gather documents
Check if you need a visa for Canada and collect all required documents.
2
Complete the online application
Fill out IMM 5257 and other forms on the IRCC portal.
3
Pay the visa and biometric fees
Pay CAD 100 visa fee and CAD 30 biometric fee online.
4
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule a visit to a Visa Application Centre (VFS Global) in Zambia.
5
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit VFS in person to provide fingerprints and photo.
6
Submit passport and documents
Mail or drop off your passport and paper documents to VFS.
7
Processing by IRCC
Waits for visa officer decision; typically 20–30 days.
8
Decision and passport return
If approved, your passport with visa is returned via VFS.
9
Check travel readiness
Ensure passport validity and carry all documents when traveling.
10
Travel to Canada
Present passport with visa at port of entry.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 1 blank page)
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
Completed visa application form (IMM 5257)
Download from IRCC website.
Recent passport-sized photographs
Two photos meeting Canadian specifications.
Marriage certificate (if married)
Optional
To prove family ties if applicable.

Travel

Travel itinerary
Flight and accommodation bookings.
Return flight ticket or proof of onward travel
Not always required but recommended.
Accommodation proof (hotel bookings or host letter)
For entire stay duration.

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statements, pay stubs, or sponsorship letter.

Employment

Proof of employment/study
Employer letter, pay slips, or school enrollment proof.

Supporting

Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)
Optional
From host in Canada, including their details.
Biometric fee payment receipt
Pay online before appointment.
Visa application fee payment receipt
Pay online via IRCC portal.
Police clearance certificate
Optional
May be requested if you have a criminal record.
Medical examination report
Optional
Only if staying over 6 months or required by IRCC.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: CAD 2,000–5,000 (depends on length of stay)

bank statements
pay stubs
sponsor letter
tax documents

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay and return.

Good to know

Visa not guaranteed; refusal possible if documents incomplete or ties insufficient.
Biometrics cannot be skipped – in-person appointment mandatory.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial proof

Provide clear bank statements and sponsorship letter if applicable.

Weak ties to home country

Include evidence of employment, property, or family in Zambia.

Incomplete or incorrect application

Double-check all forms and attach all required documents.

FAQ

Do citizens of Zambia need a visa for Canada?

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

How long can citizens of Zambia stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the Canada visa cost for citizens of Zambia?

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

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 20–30 days.

What documents do citizens of Zambia need for Canada?

Valid passport (with at least 1 blank page); Completed visa application form (IMM 5257); Recent passport-sized photographs; Proof of sufficient funds; Travel itinerary; Proof of employment/study; and 8 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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