Step-by-step Guide on how to Apply For a Canada Visitor Visa

Planning to visit Canada from Kenya? Here is a simple step-by-step guide to help you understand the application process.

1. Confirm Your Eligibility

Before applying, make sure you have:

A valid Kenyan passport
A genuine and clearly stated reason for visiting Canada
Sufficient funds to support your trip
Strong ties to Kenya demonstrating that you intend to return after your visit

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2. Create Your IRCC Account

Start your application through the official Government of Canada/IRCC website. Complete the eligibility questions and follow the instructions to access the appropriate online application portal.

3. Prepare Your Supporting Documents

Commonly required documents may include:

Passport biodata page and previous visas/stamps
Passport photograph
Recent bank statements and evidence of the source of funds
Employment letter, approved leave letter and recent payslips
Business registration and other business documents if self-employed
Purpose-of-travel letter or Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Travel itinerary and accommodation information
Invitation letter and proof of the host’s legal status in Canada, if applicable
Documents demonstrating ties to Kenya, such as marriage, birth, employment or property documents
Previous visa refusal letter and evidence explaining what has changed, where applicable

4. Complete the Application Form

Provide accurate and truthful information about your:

Personal details
Travel plans
Employment and education history
Family information
Previous international travel
Immigration and visa history

Do not provide false or misleading information.

5. Upload Your Documents

Upload clear, readable copies of all required documents in the appropriate sections.

Make sure your application forms, bank statements, SOP/purpose-of-travel letter, itinerary and invitation letter are consistent with one another.

6. Pay the Required Government Fees

The standard fees include:

Visitor Visa: CAD $100 per applicant
Biometrics: CAD $85 per applicant, where required

Additional optional services, such as courier services, may attract separate charges.

7. Submit Your Application

Carefully review all information and documents before submitting your application online. Once submitted, you should receive confirmation through your IRCC account.

8. Receive Your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)

If biometrics are required, IRCC will issue a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL).

If you previously provided biometrics for a Canadian temporary-residence application, they may still be valid for up to 10 years. Check your status before paying for biometrics again.

9. Book Your Biometrics Appointment

After receiving your BIL, book an appointment through the official VFS Global Canada Visa Application Centre in Nairobi.

Nairobi VAC:
Parkfield Building, 5th Floor, Muthangari Drive, off Waiyaki Way, opposite Safaricom House, Westlands, Nairobi.

Bring:

Valid passport
Biometric Instruction Letter
VFS appointment confirmation
Any other documents specifically requested

Important: At present, the VFS Canada information for Kenya lists Nairobi as the Canada Visa Application Centre. Do not assume that a VFS centre serving another country, including a Mombasa centre, processes Canadian visa applications.

10. Monitor Your IRCC Account

Regularly check your account for updates. IRCC may request:

Additional documents
A medical examination
An interview
Your passport

Respond to any request within the stated deadline.

11. Wait for the Decision

Processing times can vary depending on several factors.

Important: Receiving a biometric update does NOT mean your visa has been approved.

12. Submit Your Passport Only When Requested

If your application is approved, IRCC may send you a Passport Request Letter.

Only submit your passport after receiving the official request. Follow the instructions provided by IRCC and the Visa Application Centre.

13. Collect Your Passport

VFS will notify you when your passport is ready for collection or dispatch.

Before travelling, carefully check your Canadian visa counterfoil and passport details for accuracy.

Important Warning

Use only official Government of Canada (IRCC) and VFS Global websites for your application.

No agent can guarantee visa approval.
Do not submit fake documents or false information.
Be cautious of anyone promising a “100% guaranteed Canada visa.”

Prepare carefully, provide truthful information and follow the official instructions.

Good luck with your application!

🔗 Official IRCC: Canada.ca
🔗 Official VFS Global Canada – Kenya:https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ken/en/can