Canada Tourist Visa
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) · For Kenya citizens
Planning a trip to Canada as a Kenyan citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Temporary Resident Visa application: required documents, current fees of CAD 100, biometrics process, and strategies to improve your chances. Processing times vary, so early application is recommended.
Canada Tourist Visa for Kenyan Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Kenya citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Kenyan passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay in Canada
Complete the visitor visa application through the IRCC online portal
Recent photographs meeting Canadian visa specifications
Documents proving you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Canada
Documentation proving your employment status and income in Kenya
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Kenya after your visit
Clear explanation of why you are visiting Canada
Fingerprints and photograph taken at the Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC) in Nairobi
Recommended (Optional)
Letter from your host in Canada inviting you to visit
Application Process
All applications for Canadian visitor visas from Kenya are submitted online through the IRCC portal.1
1. Create IRCC Account
Register for an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website. You can use a GCKey or Sign-In Partner to access the portal.
2. Complete Online Application
Fill out the visitor visa application form, providing information about your travel plans, employment, finances, and background. Upload all supporting documents as specified.4
3. Pay Fees
Pay the CAD $100 application fee and CAD $85 biometrics fee online.2 Keep your receipt as proof of payment.
4. Provide Biometrics
After submitting your application, you will receive a biometrics instruction letter. Schedule an appointment at the Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC) in Nairobi to provide your fingerprints and photograph.4 This must be done within 30 days.
5. Wait for Decision
Processing typically takes 4-8 weeks.3 You can track your application status online. If approved, your passport will be requested for visa stamping.
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | CAD $100 |
| Biometrics | CAD $85 |
| Family Maximum (5+) | CAD $500 |
All fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome.2 Biometrics are valid for 10 years, so you will not need to pay again for future applications within that period.
What You Need to Prove
IRCC must be satisfied that you:1
- Have a genuine purpose for visiting Canada
- Will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- Have sufficient funds for your trip and return
- Have ties to Kenya that will ensure your return
- Are in good health and have no criminal record
- Are not a security risk to Canada
Processing Times
Processing times for visitor visa applications from Kenya vary based on several factors:3
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Complete application | Faster processing |
| Peak season | Longer waits |
| Additional review needed | Weeks to months added |
| Biometrics on file | Slightly faster |
Check the IRCC website for current processing times for applications from Kenya. Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, you will be asked to send your passport to have the visa stamped. After receiving your visa:
- Check all details are correct (name, dates, entries)
- Plan your travel within the visa validity period
- Prepare documents to show at the Canadian border
At the port of entry:
- Present your passport with visa to the border officer
- Answer questions about your visit honestly
- The officer will stamp your passport with your authorized stay
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. Common next steps:
- Review the refusal reasons carefully
- Address each issue identified in your application
- Gather stronger evidence for problem areas
- Reapply when you have improved documentation
There is no formal appeal for visitor visa refusals. However, you can request a reconsideration if you believe there was an error, or simply reapply with a stronger application.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Weak Ties to Kenya
Applicants cannot demonstrate strong enough reasons to return to Kenya after their visit, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Document your ties comprehensively: employment with tenure, property ownership, business interests, spouse and children in Kenya, and financial obligations.
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show adequate funds or demonstrate the financial means to support the trip and return home.
How to avoid: Provide 4-6 months of bank statements showing consistent income. Balance should exceed your estimated trip costs. Include fixed deposits and property valuations.
Unclear Purpose of Visit
The reason for visiting Canada is vague, inconsistent, or does not align with the applicant's profile and circumstances.
How to avoid: Be clear and specific about why you want to visit Canada. If visiting family, provide detailed invitation letters. If tourism, have a reasonable itinerary.
Incomplete Application
Missing documents, incomplete forms, or failure to meet technical requirements leads to refusal.
How to avoid: Use the IRCC document checklist carefully. Ensure all forms are complete and all required documents are uploaded.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of overstays, visa violations, or refusals in Canada or other countries raises concerns about future compliance.
How to avoid: Be honest about any previous issues. Explain what has changed in your circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Canada on a tourist visa?
The Temporary Resident Visa typically allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. The border officer at entry will determine your exact authorized stay and stamp your passport accordingly.
Can I work on a Canada tourist visa?
No, the Temporary Resident Visa does not permit any form of paid work in Canada. Working without authorization is illegal and can result in deportation and future visa refusals.
How long does Canada visa processing take from Kenya?
Processing times for visitor visa applications from Kenya typically range from 4-8 weeks, but can vary based on application volume and individual circumstances. Check the IRCC website for current processing times.
What is the Canada tourist visa fee for Kenyans?
The visa application fee is CAD $100 per person. Additionally, there is a biometrics fee of CAD $85 (valid for 10 years). Families of 5 or more pay a maximum of CAD $500 for visa fees.
Do I need biometrics for a Canada visa?
Yes, applicants aged 14-79 must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at the Canada Visa Application Centre in Nairobi. Biometrics are valid for 10 years.
What if my visa is refused?
If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues raised. There is no formal appeal for visitor visa refusals, but you can request a reconsideration in some cases.
Do I need an invitation letter?
An invitation letter is not mandatory but is strongly recommended if you are visiting family or friends in Canada. It helps demonstrate your purpose of visit and accommodation arrangements.