Canada Visa Guide

Complete guide for East Africans · Updated 2025

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Available visa types

TRV

Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor)

For tourism, family visits, and short business trips. Required for most East African passport holders. Valid for up to 10 years (multiple entry) or single entry.

CAD $100 (single or multiple entry)

2–8 weeks online; longer during peak periods

SDS/Regular

Study Permit

For full-time study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers faster processing for eligible countries.

CAD $150

8 weeks (SDS); 16 weeks (regular stream)

PGWP

Post-Graduation Work Permit

Allows international graduates from Canadian institutions to work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation. Key pathway to permanent residence.

CAD $255

Apply before study permit expires; processing 3–5 months

Express Entry

Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker)

Points-based system for skilled workers seeking permanent residence. Requires language scores, education assessment, and skilled work experience.

CAD $1,365 (principal applicant)

6 months from Invitation to Apply

Spousal/Family

Spousal Sponsorship

Canadian citizens and PRs can sponsor their spouse or common-law partner for permanent residence.

CAD $1,050 (sponsor + applicant combined fees)

12 months (outland)

Notes by country

Kenya

Kenya is a strong Canada applicant nation. Prior UK or US travel helps enormously. Nairobi VFS Canada is at ABC Place, Westlands. Biometrics must be done in person at VFS.

Rwanda

Rwandan applicants use the VFS Canada office in Nairobi (no VFS in Kigali as of 2025). Budget for travel to Nairobi for biometrics. Processing via IRCC Ottawa is generally 4–8 weeks.

Uganda

Uganda VFS Canada is at Workers' House, Kampala. Uganda has a strong application track record. Employment in government or healthcare is viewed very positively.

Tanzania

Tanzania: use VFS Dar es Salaam. Proof of funds needs to be particularly strong for Tanzanian applicants — officers look carefully at the source of funds.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia: VFS Addis Ababa. Ethiopian applicants with prior study or work abroad are viewed favorably. IELTS scores from IELTS Ethiopia test centers are fully accepted.

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