Do employment letters need to be certified?

The Riyadh visitor and study checklists say employment letters should be certified by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce.

What exchange rate should I use for riyal balances?

Show balances as your bank prints them. CAN$1 was about SAR 2.65 on September 25, 2026, based on the Bank of Canada US dollar rate and the riyal’s fixed US dollar peg.

Does IRCC publish processing times for Saudi Arabia?

Yes. IRCC publishes times by country of residence, so Saudi residents see the Saudi Arabia figure. Each guide shows the latest number.

Applying to Canada from Saudi Arabia

Most applicants in Saudi Arabia are expatriate workers and their families. The Riyadh visa office asks non-Saudis for their iqama and exit and re-entry visa, wants employment letters certified by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce, and the Saudi police certificate follows a process unlike most countries.

Written by NextMovePath editorial teamLast updated: September 28, 2026

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IRCC processing times for applicants in Saudi Arabia

Visitor visa (applying from outside Canada)	53 daysIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Super visa (parents and grandparents)	91 daysIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Study permit (applying from outside Canada)	4 weeksIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Work permit (applying from outside Canada)	4 weeksIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times

Guides for Saudi-based applicants

Each guide covers the documents, offices and local rules that apply in Saudi Arabia.

Can expats apply for Canada from Saudi Arabia?

Yes. Non-Saudi residents apply under the Riyadh visa office checklists and must show proof of current status: a copy of the Saudi residence permit (iqama) and of the exit and re-entry visa. Keep your iqama valid through the whole process, because the Saudi police certificate also depends on current legal residence.

Where do Saudi residents give biometrics and do medicals?

IRCC lists three visa application centres in Saudi Arabia: Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar. Biometrics cost CAN$85 per person or CAN$170 per family. In September 2026 IRCC’s panel physician list showed approved doctors in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. Only a panel physician can do your immigration medical.

Why is the Saudi police certificate different?

You cannot just request it. For permanent residence, IRCC first sends you a request letter, then the IRCC Riyadh office issues a facilitation letter you take to the Criminal Evidence Division. People who left on a final exit visa may not be able to get one at all.

Canada from Saudi Arabia: FAQ

: The Riyadh visitor and study checklists say employment letters should be certified by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce.
: Show balances as your bank prints them. CAN$1 was about SAR 2.65 on September 25, 2026, based on the Bank of Canada US dollar rate and the riyal’s fixed US dollar peg.
: Yes. IRCC publishes times by country of residence, so Saudi residents see the Saudi Arabia figure. Each guide shows the latest number.

Official sources

Not sure which route fits you from Saudi Arabia?

Tell us your age, education, work and what you want (visit, study, work or PR). We will reply with the route that fits and what to fix first.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, fees and document lists change often. Confirm current requirements on canada.ca or with a licensed Canadian immigration representative (RCIC or lawyer) before you apply.