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Canada visa requirements for South African passport holders

Yes. South African passport holders need a visa to visit Canada for tourism. The visa fee is CAD 100.

South AfricanCanada
tourism
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South African passport holders need a visa to visit Canada for tourism.

Get your documents complete and consistent before you apply, then check whether you are ready.

Fees and timing

Visa feeCAD 100

Not sure you are ready to apply?

Run a free readiness check. Meridian shows you what is still missing or inconsistent before you apply. We do not promise approval. We help you apply with confidence.

Check your application readiness

At the border

These apply when you cross the border. They are separate from your visa application.

Electronic travel authorization (eTA)

An eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. It is electronically linked to the traveller's passport and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires. It does not guarantee entry, and a border services officer will check documents on arrival.

No start date has been confirmed. Applies to you if you do not need a visa.

Read the official page

Why we say this

How applying works

Gather your documents

17 documents. Upload what you already have, we read them and fill the rest.

Passport photoValid passport from a visa-exempt country or territoryBank account statementEmployment proofTravel/medical insuranceItinerary: flight detailsProof of accommodationLetter of invitation if invitedVisa application formFee receiptLetter authorizing a minor child to travel to Canada if minorAdditional documents for minor children if minorProof of your relationship to the hostElectronic travel authorization (eTA)Family Information (IMM 5645) formProof of a Canadian visitor visa held in the past 10 years or a valid US nonimmigrant visaUS permanent resident (green) card or equivalent proof of status
We draft the missing documents for you: a consular cover letter, your itinerary, an invitation letter, and an employer letter

Review your application

We review your documents against the consulate's rules and tell you if you're ready, or not yet

Complete the official application form

We draft the application for you

Pay the CAD 100 visa fee

Paid at High Commission of Canada in South Africa, Pretoria.

Book your biometrics appointment

Give your fingerprints and hand in your file at High Commission of Canada in South Africa, Pretoria.

Then the consulate decides

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Requirements last updated October 2026.

We can't file applications for this route yet.

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