Do Syria Citizens Need a Visa for Canada in 2026?
Syrian citizens must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit Canada. The application is predominantly processed online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal, requiring a subsequent visit to a VFS Global center for biometric enrollment. The total cost is 185 CAD (100 CAD visa fee plus 85 CAD biometrics fee), and processing times can extend from 4 to 8 weeks or longer, potentially granting a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years or until passport expiry.

Museums, venues & activities in Canada.



Step-by-Step Application Process
Apply Online via IRCC
Create a secure account on the official Government of Canada website (canada.ca), complete the comprehensive questionnaire, and upload all digitized supporting documents.
Provide Biometrics at VFS
After receiving the Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL), schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global Visa Application Centre to submit your fingerprints and photograph.
Submit Passport for Stamping
Once your TRV is approved, you will receive a Passport Request Letter; submit your physical passport to VFS Global for the visa counterfoil to be affixed.
Required Documents
- βSyrian passport valid for at least 6 months, ideally with several years of validity remaining
- βCompleted IMM 5257 (Application for Visitor Visa) and IMM 5645 (Family Information) forms
- βDigital passport-sized photograph meeting strict IRCC specifications
- βComprehensive travel history, showing previous visas and stamps from other countries
- βVerifiable proof of financial support (last 4-6 months of bank statements and employment letters)
- βDetailed letter of explanation outlining your ties to your home country and the exact purpose of your visit
- βLetter of invitation from a Canadian host, including their citizenship/residency status and financial capability, if applicable
Important Tips
- β’Apply at least two to three months before your planned travel date, as background and security checks for Syrian applicants can significantly delay processing.
- β’Demonstrating extremely strong ties to your country of residence (such as property ownership, stable employment, or immediate family) is the most critical factor for approval.
- β’All Arabic documents must be translated into English or French by a certified translator and accompanied by an affidavit.
- β’Providing a detailed, day-by-day itinerary and a realistic budget can help convince the immigration officer of your genuine temporary intent.
Easiest Way to Get It
Filing a meticulously prepared online application with a robust Letter of Explanation and a formalized invitation from a close family member in Canada offers the highest probability of success.
What about Canada β Syria?
Discover Canada
Canada is the second-largest country in the world, known for its vast wilderness, multicultural cities, and stunning natural wonders like the Niagara Falls and the Rocky Mountains.
Visa Comparison from Syria β Same Region
Frequently Asked Questions
More Destinations from Syria
Explore other countries you can visit with a Syria passport.