Canada Tourist Visa
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) · For South Africa citizens
Planning a trip to Canada as a South African citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Temporary Resident Visa application: required documents, current fees of CAD $100 plus $85 biometrics, processing times, and strategies to improve your approval chances.
Canada Tourist Visa for South African Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For South Africa citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay in Canada
Complete the visitor visa application through the IRCC online portal
Recent photographs meeting Canadian visa photo specifications
Documentation proving you have sufficient funds for your trip
Documentation proving your employment status and ties to South Africa
A letter explaining why you want to visit Canada
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to South Africa
Fingerprints and photograph taken at a Visa Application Centre
Recommended (Optional)
Letter from your host in Canada
Application Process
Canadian visitor visa applications are submitted online through the IRCC portal.1 The process involves several steps:
1. Check Requirements
Confirm you need a visitor visa. South African citizens require a Temporary Resident Visa to visit Canada.1
2. Create Online Account
Register for an account on the IRCC website to start your application.3 You can also use a representative to submit on your behalf.
3. Complete Application
Fill out the visitor visa application form online.3 Provide accurate information about your travel plans, background, and ties to South Africa.
4. Upload Documents
Scan and upload all required documents including passport, photos, financial proof, employment letter, and purpose of visit letter.3
5. Pay Fees
Pay the CAD $100 application fee plus CAD $85 biometrics fee online.2 Keep your receipt for your records.
6. Provide Biometrics
After submitting, you will receive instructions to visit a VFS Global Visa Application Centre in South Africa to provide fingerprints and photo.4 Biometrics are valid for 10 years.
7. Wait for Decision
Processing times vary. You can check your application status online.1 If approved, you will receive instructions to submit your passport for visa stamping.
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | CAD $100 |
| Family Application (5+ people) | CAD $500 |
| Biometrics (per person) | CAD $85 |
| Visitor Record Extension | CAD $100 |
All fees are paid online during the application process.2
What You Need to Prove
Immigration officers will assess whether you are a genuine visitor. You must demonstrate:1
- Strong ties to South Africa that will ensure your return
- Sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
- Clear purpose for visiting Canada
- Intent to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- No inadmissibility issues (criminal, security, health, or financial)
Processing Times
Processing times for Canadian visitor visas vary based on:1
- Application volume at the processing office
- Completeness of your application
- Individual circumstances requiring additional review
Check current processing times on the IRCC website before applying. Online applications are typically processed faster than paper applications.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport. When traveling to Canada:
- Present your passport with visa to the border officer
- Be prepared to answer questions about your visit
- The officer will determine your authorized stay length
- If approved entry, you may stay up to 6 months or the date specified
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can:
- Reapply with new or additional documentation addressing the concerns
- Request the officer’s notes through an Access to Information request to understand the refusal better
- Wait for changed circumstances before reapplying
There is no formal appeal for visitor visa refusals, but you can reapply at any time.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Home Country
The officer was not convinced you have strong enough reasons to return to South Africa, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Provide comprehensive evidence of ties: employment letter showing tenure, property documents, family certificates, business registration. Explain clearly why you will return.
Inadequate Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Canada without working illegally.
How to avoid: Show 6 months of bank statements with consistent balance. Include salary slips, tax returns, and explanation for any large deposits. Funds should clearly exceed estimated costs.
Unconvincing Purpose of Visit
The stated reason for visiting Canada seemed implausible or the officer suspected you may not leave after your visit.
How to avoid: Write a clear, detailed purpose of visit letter. If visiting family, include strong invitation letter with host's status documents. Have a realistic itinerary.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in Canada or other countries raised concerns.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues. Explain what has changed since then. Provide evidence of compliance with immigration rules in other countries.
Incomplete Application
Missing documents or information in the application.
How to avoid: Use the document checklist provided by IRCC. Double-check everything before submitting. Include a cover letter summarizing your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Canada on a tourist visa?
Most visitors can stay in Canada for up to 6 months. The border officer will determine your allowed stay when you enter and may stamp your passport with the departure date. If no date is stamped, you can stay for 6 months from the day you entered.
How long is the Canada tourist visa valid?
The Temporary Resident Visa is typically issued for up to 10 years or until one month before your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries to Canada during its validity period.
What is the Canada tourist visa fee for South Africans in 2025?
The visitor visa application fee is CAD $100 per person, or CAD $500 for a family of 5 or more applying together. Additionally, there is a biometrics fee of CAD $85 per person.
How long does Canada visa processing take?
Processing times vary based on application volume and individual circumstances. Check the current processing times on the IRCC website. Online applications are generally processed faster than paper applications.
Do I need biometrics for a Canada visa?
Yes, most applicants need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo). After submitting your application, you will receive instructions to visit a Visa Application Centre. Biometrics are valid for 10 years.
Can I work on a Canada tourist visa?
No, the Temporary Resident Visa does not permit any form of work in Canada. If you want to work, you must apply for a separate work permit.
Can I extend my stay in Canada?
Yes, you can apply to extend your stay as a visitor. Apply at least 30 days before your current status expires. Extensions cost CAD $100 and are not guaranteed.
What happens if my Canada visa is refused?
You will receive a letter explaining the reasons for refusal. You can reapply addressing the issues raised, or in some cases request reconsideration. There is no formal appeal process for visitor visa refusals.