How to Apply for a Canadian Visa from Kenya
Have you been curious about applying for a Canadian visa from Kenya but aren’t sure where to start? We don’t blame you.
The Canadian immigration system has more than 100 different immigration programs, pilots, and visas to choose from, each with its own set of requirements.
With Canada set to invite 1 million skilled international workers to call Canada home by 2022, the Government is making good on it’s promise by continuing to issue invitations for permanent residency to thousands of foreign nationals through immigration programs such as the Express Entry system and the Provincial Nominee Program every month!
But why are so many Kenyans choosing Canada as their next destination? You’re about to find out right now.Â
Canadian Visa Options for Kenyans
Work
Applying for a Canadian visa from Kenya online starts with choosing the right immigration program. This involves not only programs that you qualify for but one that will give you the best possible chances of success in the application process.
The first step is choosing the best immigration program for your skillset, your lifestyle needs, and employment opportunities. We see so all too many cases where people choose a city because they offer high-paying jobs without considering that the more popular a destination the more competitive it may be to get a job in Canada or be able to find affordable accommodation in Canada. Do some extra research before you apply. It will save you a lot of heartache in the long run.
If you are a highly skilled worker with a university or college degree, diploma, or certificate and want to work as a medical professional, manager, or architect for example you may be eligible to apply for a visa through the Canadian Express Entry System. Not only could you receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence in as little as 6 months, but you don’t need a job to apply, which means that you don’t have to choose your destination before you apply for your visa. If, however, you would like a little more security it’s a good idea to find a job in a province that appeals to you and express interest in that province or territory when you create your Express Entry profile as it means that you could receive a provincial nomination (PN). Seeing a PN is worth 600 extra points, it could mean the difference between you and another applicant receiving their ITA. If you decide to take this route you would need to apply through and Express Entry-linked Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Business
If you’re planning to bring your business venture to Canada, the Start-up Visa Program (previously known as the investor Visa) is the best option for you. In order to qualify you will need a letter of support from a designated organization, meet certain language requirements, and have enough money to settle in Canada. For more information on how to apply for your Canadian business visa from Kenya and the top 5 business opportunities for immigrants in Canada visit our blog here.
Study
Are you interested in studying abroad in one of the most dynamic countries in the world? Canada has one of the most world-renowned education systems in the world. Not only will having a Canadian qualification open up the door to unbelievable career opportunities but it could also give you the opportunity to stay in Canada after you graduate through the Post Graduate Work Program (PGWP). To study in Canada you will need a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) before you apply for a visa from Kenya.
Still aren’t convinced? Take a look at 5 reasons why you should be!
Top Reasons Why You Should Immigrate to Canada from Kenya in 2020
More and more Kenyans are choosing to immigrate to Canada in 2020 and it’s very clear why. With thousands of jobs in Canada, in almost every sector, offering fantastic work benefits and an inclusive tolerant multicultural lifestyle offering only the best for you and your loved ones, Canada also has top-tier education and healthcare systems for which Canadians won’t have to pay a single dollar for. It offers foreign skilled workers from Kenya this and so much more making it one of the most popular choices for foreigners in search of new opportunities. And here’s why.
1. Amazing Job Opportunities!
There are currently thousands of jobs in Canada in almost every industry. Whether you’re a medical professional, graphic designer, business executive, IT professional, accountant, food, and beverage server, construction worker, or farm worker, Canada has a place for you.
Below are some of the top jobs currently in demand in Canada.
| Top 20 Occupations In-Demand in Canada for 2020 | |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary(CAD) |
| Registered or Licensed Practical Nurse | $76,342 – $129,781 |
| Long Haul Truck Driver | $44,850 – $75,770 |
| Welder | $40,938 – $69,595 |
| Industrial Electrician | $49,334 – $81,491 |
| Aerospace engineer | $89,700 – $152,490 |
| Software Engineer | $92,450 – $157,165 |
| College or Vocational Instructor | $47,736 – $75,408 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $58,851 – $100,047 |
| Aircraft Pilot | $66110 – $112,387 |
| Early Childhood Educator | $33,150 – $45,884 |
| Chef or Cook | $25,350 – $59,670 |
| Farm Worker | $22,620 – $35,687 |
| Pipefitter | $63,239 – $87,828 |
| Pharmacist | $76,342 – $129,781 |
| Construction Estimator | $57,504 – $97,757 |
| Business Management Consultant | $75,692 -$128,676 |
2. Lucrative Small Business Opportunities
Canada thrives on innovation and entrepreneurship and is always looking for business ventures to invest in. Canada encourages local business ventures, with more than 90% of Canada’s business sector comprising small to medium businesses. It is the perfect place to set up your business, with one of the most competitive and stable economies in the world.
Canada’s GDP growth is estimated to increase by 1.8% and currently ranks second in the world, according to Global Affairs Canada. It has also been proven that immigrant-owned businesses create more jobs in Canada than businesses owned by those born in Canada, which partly why Canada encourages business immigration.
Whether you’re planning to move to Canada with your existing business or create a start-up or simply invest, there is a Canadian immigration option for you.
3. Fantastic Work Benefits
Canada’s work environment or culture is all about promoting a balance between work and life outside of the office. By saying yes to live and work in Canada, you’re also saying yes to longer vacations, higher job satisfaction as well as amazing parental benefits.
Canada understands the value of time spent with your family, especially those early years where you form bonds between you and your children. This is why Canada has such stellar leave benefits.
Mom will get up to 55% of her salary for up to 15 weeks plus expecting parents (both mom and dad) get up to 55% of their salary for up to 40 weeks (standard parental leave) or up to 33% of their salary for up to 69 weeks (extended parental leave) with a few 5 extra weeks (for non-birthing parents). This allows parents to take all the time that they need to create those priceless memories that most of us so often have to miss because we can’t afford to stay home without being paid.
4. High Quality of Life
Canada is synonymous with having one of the highest quality of life worldwide.
Free public healthcare and secondary education, low crime rates, picturesque landscapes and bustling urban spaces to explore, what else could you ask for that Canada can’t offer you?
Missing some home-cooked Ugali or simply being able to speak to someone in Swahili? You’ll have plenty of restaurant choices offering cuisine from all over the world, including authentic Kenyan dishes served in provinces across Canada, such as James Street Cafe and Grill where you can pick up some delicious Choma and be sure to stop by Chakula Hut for some delectable Mandazi. If you’re in the B.C. area and feel like doing some home cooking you can pop by the Kenya Food Spices Market to create all those local meals that brought you so much joy in your hometown.
Canada also has amazing outdoor activities to enjoy as a family such as hiking, canoeing and outdoor adventures in one of 46 national parks, trips to Canada’s theme parks such as Wonderland or educational visits to museums and aquariums. Canada has something for everyone to enjoy.
5. Supportive Community
Canada is home to various cultures, religions, and traditions from almost every part of the world.
Multiculturalism and diversity of the supporting values of what it means to be a Canadian, making it one of the most welcoming countries in the world and easy to acclimate to.
There are more than 40 different languages spoken in Toronto alone and the country is a melting pot of religions including strong Catholic and Islamic communities, which means you’ll have no problem settling into Canadian expat life, making it just a little bit easier to find your home away from home.
How We Can Help You Apply for a Canadian Visa from Kenya
Applying for a visa can be time-consuming and confusing. With strict deadlines, procedures, and requirements to adhere to, it can be easy to make a mistake that could cost you your chance to immigrate to Canada.
