How to Apply Canada Visa from UAE – Step-by-Step Complete Guide

If you are living in the UAE and planning to travel to Canada, you must apply for a Canada visa before your trip.
Canada has a structured online application system, and most applicants are required to submit biometrics.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to apply for a Canada visa from the UAE, eligibility, visa types, required documents, processing time, fees, and expert tips to increase approval chances.


What Is a Canada Visa?

A Canada visa is an official authorization issued by the Government of Canada that allows foreign nationals to enter Canada for tourism, business, study, work, or family visits.

Most UAE residents require a visa before travel, unless they are eligible for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization).


Who Can Apply for a Canada Visa from UAE?

You can apply for a Canada visa from the UAE if:

  • You are a UAE resident with a valid residence visa
  • Your passport is valid for at least 6 months
  • You can prove financial stability
  • You have a clear travel purpose
  • You can show strong ties to UAE or home country

✅ Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Bangladeshi, Egyptian, and other nationalities living in UAE can apply.


Types of Canada Visas You Can Apply From UAE

1. Canada Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa) – Most Common

  • Tourism & holidays
  • Visiting friends or family
  • Short business trips

📌 Usually issued as a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years or passport validity.


2. Canada Business Visitor Visa

  • Business meetings
  • Conferences
  • Trade exhibitions

3. Canada Student Visa

  • For full-time study in Canadian institutions

4. Canada Work Visa

  • Employer-sponsored employment

Step-by-Step: How to Apply Canada Visa from UAE

Step 1: Create Online IRCC Account

  • Register on IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal
  • Choose Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Step 2: Fill Canada Visa Application Online

  • Complete online application form
  • Upload documents
  • Write purpose of travel letter

⚠️ Accuracy and clarity are extremely important.


Step 3: Pay Canada Visa Fees

CategoryFee
Visitor VisaCAD 100
BiometricsCAD 85
Family BiometricsCAD 170

💡 Fees are non-refundable.


Step 4: Biometrics Appointment

  • Book biometric appointment after submission
  • Visit VFS Global Canada – UAE
  • Fingerprints & photograph taken

Step 5: Wait for Processing & Decision

  • Application reviewed by Canadian visa officer
  • Additional documents may be requested

Step 6: Passport Submission

  • After approval, submit passport at VFS
  • Visa stamped and returned

Required Documents for Canada Visa from UAE

Mandatory Documents:

  • Valid passport
  • UAE residence visa copy
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Online application forms
  • Biometrics receipt

Supporting Documents:

  • Bank statements (last 6 months)
  • Employment letter / trade license
  • Salary slips
  • Travel itinerary
  • Invitation letter (if applicable)
  • Cover letter explaining travel purpose

📌 Strong documentation = higher approval chances.


How Long Does It Take to Get Canada Visa from UAE?

  • Average processing time: 15–45 days
  • Peak seasons may take longer
  • Apply at least 6–8 weeks before travel

How Long Is Canada Visitor Visa Valid?

  • Usually multiple-entry
  • Validity: up to 10 years or passport expiry
  • Maximum stay per visit: 6 months

Final stay duration decided by immigration officer.


Common Reasons for Canada Visa Rejection

  • Weak travel history
  • Insufficient financial proof
  • Unclear purpose of travel
  • Weak ties to UAE or home country
  • Poorly written cover letter

⚠️ Rejection does not ban future applications.


Expert Tips to Increase Canada Visa Approval

  • Maintain strong bank balance
  • Provide a detailed cover letter
  • Show stable employment or business
  • Avoid fake hotel or ticket bookings
  • Apply with professional guidance

Can You Apply Canada Visa Online from UAE?

Yes, 100% online application
✔ Biometrics submission required in person
❌ No embassy interview required


Canada Visa vs eTA – What’s the Difference?

Canada VisaCanada eTA
For most nationalitiesFor visa-exempt nationals
Passport stickerElectronic approval
Longer processingFaster approval

📌 UAE passport holders usually require eTA, not visa.


Why Choose a Professional Canada Visa Consultant?

Canada visa approvals are document-driven.
Professional handling improves approval chances by:

✔ Proper document strategy
✔ Strong purpose letter
✔ Accurate online filing
✔ Timely follow-ups

At Hama Tourism, we specialize in Canada visa applications from UAE with personalized support.


Final Thoughts

Applying for a Canada visa from UAE is straightforward if done correctly.
With strong documentation and expert guidance, you can explore Canada confidently.

📌 Planning a Canada trip from UAE?
Let professionals manage your visa process smoothly.