Canada
General visa requirements for travelling to Canada. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.
Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.
Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic or Official Visitor Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Varies, expedited processing available
- Fee
- Free (fee exempt for official travel)
- Validity
- Duration of posting or visit
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For diplomats, government officials, and representatives of international organizations traveling to Canada on official business. Diplomats accredited to Canada do not need a visa or eTA. Non-accredited diplomats from visa-required countries need a visa but are exempt from processing fees for official travel. Requires a diplomatic note from Ministry of Foreign Affairs or diplomatic mission.
Eligibility
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Purpose of visit
Must be traveling on official diplomatic or government business. Must hold a diplomatic, official, or service passport. Accredited diplomats in Canada are exempt from visa and eTA requirements.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Diplomatic or Official Visitor Visa Application; Form url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/diplomatic-official-visitor-visa.html
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain diplomatic note from Ministry of Foreign Affairs or diplomatic mission. Note must include position, reason and duration of trip, whether private or official, itinerary with dates, and whether diplomat returns to country of residence.
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Document submission
Submit application online or on paper at nearest visa application centre with diplomatic note, passport, and supporting documents.
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Processing wait
Processing time varies. Expedited processing may be available for urgent official travel.