Canada Tourist Visa
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) · For Cuba citizens
Planning a trip to Canada as a Cuban citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Temporary Resident Visa application: required documents, current fees of CAD 100 plus CAD 85 for biometrics, processing times of 3-4 weeks, and strategies to improve your chances. Proper preparation and strong documentation are essential for approval.
Canada Tourist Visa for Cuban Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Cuba citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current Cuban passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay in Canada
Complete the visitor visa application through the IRCC online portal
Evidence demonstrating you have sufficient funds for your trip
Details of your planned visit to Canada
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Cuba after your visit
Fingerprints and photograph required for first-time applicants
Recommended (Optional)
Letter from family or friends in Canada if visiting them
Medical examination from a designated panel physician
Application Process
All Canadian visitor visa applications from Cuba must be submitted online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.1 The process involves several key steps:
1. Check Eligibility and Gather Documents
Before applying, ensure you have all required documents ready. Use the IRCC document checklist to prepare your application.2 Key documents include your valid passport, financial evidence, and proof of ties to Cuba.
2. Create Online Account and Complete Application
Create an account on the IRCC website and complete the visitor visa application form.2 Provide accurate information about your travel plans, employment, finances, and background. Pay the CAD $100 application fee online.
3. Provide Biometrics
After submitting your application, you will receive instructions to provide biometrics within 30 days.4 Visit the Embassy of Canada in Havana to complete fingerprinting and have your photograph taken.3 The biometrics fee is CAD $85.
4. Wait for Processing
IRCC will review your application and may request additional documents or an interview.4 Processing typically takes 3-4 weeks. You will receive notification of the decision via email.
5. Receive Your Visa
If approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. Check the validity dates and number of permitted entries carefully before traveling.
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | CAD $100 |
| Biometrics (first-time applicants) | CAD $85 |
| Total (new applicants) | CAD $185 |
Payment is made online during the application process. Fees are non-refundable even if your application is refused.
What You Need to Prove
To be approved for a Canadian visitor visa, you must demonstrate:1
- Genuine visitor status: You are visiting temporarily and will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- Sufficient funds: You have enough money to cover your trip, including transportation, accommodation, and daily expenses
- Ties to Cuba: You have strong reasons to return home, such as employment, family, or property
- No criminal history: You are admissible to Canada and do not pose a security risk
- Good health: You meet health requirements (medical exam may be requested)
Processing Times
Current processing times for visitor visas from Cuba are approximately 3-4 weeks.4 However, processing may take longer if:
- Additional documents are requested
- Your application requires further review
- You need to attend an interview
- Background checks take additional time
Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for potential delays.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once your visa is approved and placed in your passport:
- Check the visa validity dates and number of entries permitted
- Book your flights and finalize accommodation
- Prepare documents to show at the border: return ticket, accommodation proof, financial evidence
- At Canadian border, answer officer questions honestly about your visit
The border officer makes the final decision on entry and determines how long you can stay.
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons.4 Common next steps include:
- Review the refusal reasons carefully to understand what was lacking
- Gather stronger evidence addressing the specific concerns raised
- Reapply with improved documentation. There is no waiting period to reapply
- Seek professional help for complex cases. Consider consulting an authorized immigration representative
A refusal does not permanently bar you from applying again, but you must address the issues identified.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate adequate funds to cover trip expenses and return travel.
How to avoid: Provide comprehensive bank statements showing consistent income. Include a detailed budget for your trip and evidence of assets in Cuba.
Weak Ties to Home Country
Application does not convincingly show reasons to return to Cuba after the visit.
How to avoid: Include strong evidence of employment, property ownership, family dependents, and ongoing commitments in Cuba.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or inconsistent information in the application.
How to avoid: Use the document checklist carefully. Ensure all information matches across documents and provide explanation letters for any gaps.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals or immigration violations in Canada or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about past issues. Explain what has changed and provide evidence of compliance with immigration rules since then.
Unclear Purpose of Visit
The stated reason for visiting Canada is vague or implausible.
How to avoid: Provide a clear, detailed itinerary with specific dates, locations, and activities planned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cuban citizens need a visa to visit Canada?
Yes, Cuban citizens require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit Canada for tourism, business, or family visits. There is no visa-free or eTA option available for Cuban passport holders.
How long can I stay in Canada on a tourist visa?
A Canadian visitor visa typically allows stays of up to 6 months. The border officer at your port of entry determines the exact length of stay permitted.
How much does the Canada tourist visa cost for Cubans?
The application fee is CAD $100. First-time applicants aged 14-79 must also pay CAD $85 for biometrics, bringing the total to CAD $185.
How long does Canada visa processing take from Cuba?
Processing times typically range from 3-4 weeks, though this can vary based on application volume and individual circumstances. Check the IRCC website for current processing times.
Where do I apply for a Canada visa from Cuba?
Applications are submitted online through the IRCC portal. Biometrics and document submission may be completed at the Embassy of Canada in Havana.
Can I extend my stay in Canada?
Yes, you can apply to extend your stay from within Canada. Submit the extension application before your current status expires. Extensions are not guaranteed.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the concerns, or in some cases seek judicial review.