What IRCC looks for
A visitor visa officer mainly asks: Will this person leave Canada at the end of their visit? Your application must clearly show:
- Purpose: why you're going, for how long, and where you'll stay.
- Funds: enough money to cover your trip without working in Canada.
- Ties to Kenya: employment, business, property, family and studies that bring you back.
- Travel history: previous trips (UK, US, Schengen, UAE…) help a lot.
Parents & grandparents: If your child or grandchild is a Canadian citizen or PR, the Super Visa allows stays of up to 5 years per visit.
How to apply
- Plan your tripDecide dates and purpose and get an invitation letter if visiting family or friends.
- Gather documentsPassport, 6 months of bank statements, employment/leave letter or business documents, and proof of ties.
- Apply onlineFill the IRCC forms carefully. Consistency matters.
- Biometrics at VFS NairobiBook after you get your Biometric Instruction Letter.
- Passport submissionIf approved, submit your passport to VFS for the visa stamp.
Government fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visitor visa (per person) | CAD 100 |
| Visitor visa (family, 5+ people) | CAD 500 max |
| Biometrics (per person) | CAD 85 |
| Biometrics (family, applying together) | CAD 170 max |
Fees are set by IRCC and can change. Our service fee is separate and shared with you upfront before you commit.
Kenya-specific tips
Avoid sudden large deposits before applying. Officers prefer steady account history. Explain any big amounts.
Employed? Get an introduction letter from your employer confirming your role, salary, approved leave dates and that you'll return.
Business owners: include business registration, KRA PIN certificate, tax compliance and business bank statements.
Don't buy non-refundable flights before your visa is approved. A planned itinerary is enough.