Kenya passport → Canada

Canada visa for citizens of Kenya

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (TRV) · Up to 6 months

Citizens of Kenya need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Visitor Visa (TRV) · Up to 6 months
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–60 days
Government fee	CA$100 + CA$45 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	CAD 2,500 per person plus travel costs

How to apply

1
Prepare required documents
Gather all the documents listed, ensuring they are complete and meet specifications.
2
Complete visa application form (IMM 5257)
Fill out the form online via IRCC portal or download and complete manually.
3
Pay application fee
Pay the CAD 100 visitor visa fee plus biometric fee of CAD 85 online and obtain payment receipt.
4
Submit application online or via VFS Global
Submit the application online through IRCC secure portal or in person at a VFS Global centre.
5
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global Visa Application Centre to provide fingerprints and photo.
6
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit the VAC at the appointed time, bring passport, appointment letter, and payment receipt.
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15–60 days; you may be contacted for additional documents or interview.
8
Receive decision
IRCC will send the visa decision by email; if approved, passport will be stamped by VFS.
9
Collect passport
Collect your passport from the VAC or have it couriered back to you (if chosen).
10
Travel to Canada
Travel within the validity period; present visa and all documents at port of entry.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport
Must have at least one blank page and valid for at least 6 months beyond departure date
Travel itinerary
Round‑trip flight booking, hotel reservations, and day‑by‑day plan

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statements, pay slips, or letter of employment showing ability to cover expenses
Bank statements for the past 3–6 months
Must show sufficient balance and regular transactions

Employment

Employment letter
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and approved leave
Business registration documents (if self‑employed)
Optional
To demonstrate self‑employment and business ties

Supporting

Visa application form (IMM 5257)
Completed and signed
Family information form (IMM 5645)
Completed and signed
Two recent passport‑sized photographs
Must meet IRCC photo specifications
Proof of accommodation
Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host with proof of their status
Purpose of visit letter
Explain the purpose of the visit, itinerary, and assurance of return
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Optional
To demonstrate family ties and intention to return
Police clearance certificate
Optional
May be requested on a case‑by‑case basis
Medical examination
Optional
May be required for certain nationalities or long stays

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: CAD 2,500 per person plus travel costs

Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
Pay slips
Employment letter with salary
Sponsor letter with proof of sponsor's funds

Funds must cover accommodation, meals, and return transportation.

Good to know

Processing times can vary significantly; apply well in advance of intended travel.
Incomplete or incorrect applications will be returned, causing delays.
Biometrics are mandatory for Kenyan passport holders aged 14–79.
Visa does not guarantee entry; final decision is made by the border officer.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds to cover stay and return

Provide clear bank statements, pay slips, and proof of sponsor if applicable.

Weak ties to home country

Include evidence of employment, property, family, and intention to return.

Incomplete application or missing documents

Double‑check the document checklist before submitting.

Purpose of visit not clearly stated

Write a detailed invitation letter or purpose letter with itinerary.

Previous immigration violations or overstay

Disclose honestly and provide explanation if applicable.

FAQ

Do citizens of Kenya need a visa for Canada?

Citizens of Kenya need a visa for Canada and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visitor Visa (TRV) · Up to 6 months.

How long can citizens of Kenya stay in Canada?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the Canada visa cost for citizens of Kenya?

Government fee: CA$100 + CA$45 service fee.

How long does Canada visa processing take?

Typically 15–60 days.

What documents do citizens of Kenya need for Canada?

Valid passport; Visa application form (IMM 5257); Family information form (IMM 5645); Two recent passport‑sized photographs; Proof of sufficient funds; Travel itinerary; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Canada?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

canada.ca

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