Canada Visa RequirementsFor Iran passport holders
Iranian passport holders require a Temporary Resident Visa (visitor visa) to enter Canada, applied for online through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The fee is CAD 100 (approximately USD $75) and allows stays of up to 6 months.
Iran passport holders require a visa to enter Canada.
To apply for a Canadian visitor visa from Iran: 1) Create a GCKey or Sign-In Partner account on the IRCC portal (canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship). 2) Complete the online application form (IMM 5257). 3) Pay the non-refundable fee of CAD 100 (approximately USD $75). 4) Upload required documents: valid passport, passport-size photo meeting IRCC specifications, bank statements for the last 6 months showing sufficient funds, proof of employment or business ownership, travel itinerary, purpose of visit letter, ties to Iran (property, family, employment), and any previous travel history. 5) If biometrics are required and you have not given them before, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter and must visit a VFS Global center in an accessible third country (such as Turkey or UAE). 6) Processing times vary greatly, typically 2-12 weeks or longer. Monitor your application via the IRCC portal.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Biometrics
Required at first application
Current Travel Situation
Iran to Canada: What You Need to Know
Canada requires a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) for Iranian nationals. Canada and Iran have had strained diplomatic relations since Canada closed its embassy in Tehran in 2012. There is no Canadian embassy operating in Iran, which means all applications must be submitted online or through VFS Global, and biometrics must be collected at a VFS center outside Iran if required.
The approval rate for Iranian applicants is notably low. Canadian immigration officers assess applications based on whether the applicant will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay. Iranians must demonstrate strong ties to Iran, sufficient funds, and a clear purpose of travel. Previous refusals can negatively impact future applications.
Due to the absence of a Canadian mission in Iran, biometric enrollment (when required) must be done in a third country. This is an important logistical consideration, as applicants may need to travel to a neighboring country such as Turkey, UAE, or Armenia to complete the process. Following the US-Israel-Iran military conflict of February 2026, Canada has aligned with Western nations in condemning Iranian actions. Visa processing for Iranian nationals continues but with increased scrutiny and longer processing times expected.
Practical Tips
Write a detailed, honest cover letter explaining your reasons for visiting Canada, your ties to Iran, and how you plan to fund the trip. Vague or incomplete applications are more likely to be refused. If you have family in Canada, an invitation letter from a Canadian permanent resident or citizen can help but does not guarantee approval. Do not book non-refundable tickets before your visa is approved. If you have previously visited Western countries (Schengen, UK, Australia, US), include evidence of those visits as they demonstrate travel compliance history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Iranian passport holders need a visa for Canada?
Yes, Iranian nationals require a Temporary Resident Visa (visitor visa) to enter Canada. Applications are submitted online through the IRCC portal. There is no Canadian embassy in Iran, so biometrics may need to be collected in a third country.
Do Iranian passport holders need a visa for Canada?
Yes, Iranian nationals require a Temporary Resident Visa (visitor visa) to enter Canada. Applications are submitted online through the IRCC portal. There is no Canadian embassy in Iran, so biometrics may need to be collected in a third country.
How much does a Canadian visitor visa cost for Iranians?
The Canadian visitor visa fee is CAD 100, approximately USD $75. This fee is non-refundable even if the application is refused.
How much does a Canadian visitor visa cost for Iranians?
The Canadian visitor visa fee is CAD 100, approximately USD $75. This fee is non-refundable even if the application is refused.
Why is the Canadian visa so difficult for Iranian passport holders?
Canada closed its embassy in Iran in 2012, meaning there is no in-country consular service. Approval rates for Iranian applicants are low because officers assess whether the applicant has sufficient ties to Iran to ensure they will return home. Strong documentation of employment, family, property, and financial stability significantly improves chances.
Why is the Canadian visa so difficult for Iranian passport holders?
Canada closed its embassy in Iran in 2012, meaning there is no in-country consular service. Approval rates for Iranian applicants are low because officers assess whether the applicant has sufficient ties to Iran to ensure they will return home. Strong documentation of employment, family, property, and financial stability significantly improves chances.
How long can Iranians stay in Canada on a visitor visa?
If approved at the border, visitors are typically allowed to stay up to 6 months. The border officer makes the final determination on length of stay at entry.
How long can Iranians stay in Canada on a visitor visa?
If approved at the border, visitors are typically allowed to stay up to 6 months. The border officer makes the final determination on length of stay at entry.