Canada•North AmericaD-1 — Diplomatic and Official Visas
At a Glance
Varies
Free
Duration of mission
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required

Living in Canada
Overview
Issued to foreign diplomats, consular staff, and government officials on official missions.
Canada's Diplomatic and Official Visitor Visa is issued to foreign government officials, diplomatic staff, and consular personnel traveling to Canada on official missions. Holders must carry a diplomatic or official passport, or a Laissez-Passer, and submit a Note Verbale from the sending government.
The visa is fee-exempt for official travel and processed on a priority basis for the duration of the mission, with renewal possible while the mission continues. Work authorization is restricted to official duties. Dependents may accompany the principal on accompanying visitor status.
This visa is ideal for accredited foreign diplomats, consular officers, and international organization staff on official government or organizational missions to Canada.

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Stay & Extensions
| Status type | Tied to program duration |
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must hold a diplomatic or official passport, or a Laissez-Passer of an International Organization
Must provide a Note Verbale (Diplomatic note) indicating position, reason, and duration of the trip
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Form IMM 5257
Family Information Form (IMM 5645)
Two passport photos
Diplomatic or official passport, or Laissez-Passer of an International Organization
Note Verbale (Diplomatic note) indicating position, reason and duration of trip, and itinerary with dates
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- No processing fees
- Priority processing
Worth Knowing
- Strictly for official government business
- Requires diplomatic accreditation
- Lack of official mission status
Application Process
Obtain Note Verbale
Complete Form IMM 5257
Submit via visa application centre or online
Application Forms
Go to application portal| IMM 5257 Application for Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) | Fill online |
Related visas
More visas in Canada
- Facilitation Visa
Diplomatic
- Courtesy Visa
Diplomatic
- Electronic Travel Authorization
Business
Diplomatic visas in other countries

Living in Canada
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