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Canada Visa for Antigua And Barbuda Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Antigua and Barbuda citizens require a visitor visa for Canada, which involves an online application, biometrics, and proof of funds, with a standard processing time of about 2 weeks.

Guide last updated August 28, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport: Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.
  • Application Forms: IMM 5257 (Application for Visitor Visa) and IMM 5645 (Family Information) are typically required. These are completed online.
  • Financial Proof: Bank statements for the last 4-6 months showing sufficient funds for your stay. While no specific amount is mandated by the IRCC, you should demonstrate you can cover accommodation, food, and transportation. For example, if staying for 30 days, showing CAD 1,000-2,000 plus flight costs is a good benchmark.
  • Accommodation and Return Ticket: Proof of booked accommodation and a confirmed return flight ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one.
  • Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos, 35mm x 45mm, with a white or light-colored background. Face must be neutral, and eyes clearly visible.
  • Biometrics: Yes, biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are required. You will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) after submitting your application, and you must book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your biometrics.
  • Travel Health Insurance: While not always mandatory for the visa application itself, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel health insurance covering your entire stay in Canada. It can prevent significant out-of-pocket expenses in case of medical emergencies.

Visa types

  • Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV):
  • Official Name: Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
  • Validity: Typically up to 6 months per entry, but determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry.
  • Max Stay: Generally up to 6 months. Can be extended from within Canada.
  • Entry: Can be single or multiple entry, decided by the visa officer.
  • Approximate Fee: CAD 100 per person (subject to change).

How to apply

  • Apply Online:
  • Portal: Visit the official Government of Canada website for immigration, refugees and citizenship: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html
  • Steps:
  • 1. Determine your eligibility and gather necessary documents.
  • 2. Create an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) secure portal.
  • 3. Complete the online application forms accurately.
  • 4. Upload all required supporting documents, including passport, financial proof, itinerary, etc.
  • 5. Pay the application fee online.
  • 6. Submit your application.
  • 7. After submitting, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL). Book an appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your biometrics.
  • Fee: CAD 100 (visa application fee) + CAD 85 (biometrics fee per person, if applicable).
  • Processing Time: Standard processing times are approximately 14 days, but can vary based on application volume and individual circumstances. Check the IRCC website for current processing times: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html
  • Approval: You will be notified of the decision online. If approved, you will receive instructions on how to submit your passport to the VAC for visa stamping.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa Application Fee: CAD 100 per person.
  • Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 per person (if you haven't provided biometrics for Canada in the last 10 years).
  • VFS/BLS Service Fee: If using a Visa Application Centre (VAC), there will be a service fee. This typically ranges from CAD 20-30 for basic services. Check the specific VAC's website for exact fees.
  • Total Cost Estimate: Approximately CAD 185 - CAD 215 per person (visa + biometrics + VAC service fee), depending on your situation and VAC fees.
  • Standard Processing Time: Approximately 14 working days from the date of biometrics submission. This is an estimate and can change.
  • Express/Priority Option: Canada does not typically offer an express or priority processing option for visitor visas.

Tips for Antigua and Barbuda travelers

  • Apply in Advance: It is recommended to apply for your visa at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date to allow ample time for processing and potential delays.
  • Common Rejection Reasons:
  • Insufficient proof of funds: Not demonstrating enough money to cover your stay.
  • Weak ties to home country: Not convincing the visa officer that you have strong reasons to return to Antigua and Barbuda (e.g., stable employment, family ties, property ownership).
  • Unclear purpose of visit: Not providing a clear and credible reason for traveling to Canada.
  • Incomplete or inaccurate application: Missing documents or incorrect information can lead to delays or refusal.
  • VFS/BLS vs. Direct Embassy Application: Applications for Canada are typically processed through Visa Application Centres (VACs) like VFS Global or BLS International. These centers handle document submission, biometrics collection, and passport return, acting as intermediaries between applicants and the IRCC. Direct embassy applications are rare for visitor visas.
  • Travel Advisories: Always check the latest travel advice and advisories for Canada on the Government of Canada's foreign travel advice website: https://travel.gc.ca/.
  • Extension Options Inside Canada: If you wish to stay longer than your initial authorized period, you can apply for an extension from within Canada. This must be done before your current status expires. You can find the relevant forms and instructions on the IRCC website.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.