How to Apply for a Canada Visa from Uganda

Canada is not only known for having a more positive view of immigration than other countries but also for its stable economy, exceptional healthcare and education and liberal and democratic government. These features of Canadian life have made it vastly attractive for prospective immigrants from African nations like Uganda.

To apply for a Canada visa application, many Ugandans take the initiative to learn how to apply for a Canadian visa in Uganda. The rise in the number of Ugandan immigrants in Canada shows that many have been successful in learning how to apply for a Canada visa from Uganda.

The aim of most immigration to Canada from Uganda is to receive permanent resident status. By highlighting the most prominently used immigration visa pathways that grant Canada PR status i.e, Express Entry, you can seize the opportunity of a lifetime to visit or immigrate to Canada by learning how to apply for a Canada Visa from Uganda today!

Which Canada Visa Types Can Ugandans Use to Apply

which canada visa types can ugandans use to immigrate to canada

Ugandan citizens who wish to immigrate to Canada have several visa options. Understanding the different types of visas can help you navigate the application process more effectively.

Temporary Resident Canada Visas

Temporary resident visas are suitable for individuals who want to visit Canada for a limited period. A temporary resident visa (TRV) is an official counterfoil document issued by a visa office placed in a person’s passport to show that they have met the requirements for admission to Canada as a temporary resident.

Please note that holding a TRV does not guarantee entry to Canada. As a Ugandan citizen, you can apply for the following temporary visas:

Temporary Foreign Work Permit

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is designed for Canadian employers to hire foreign workers for various job positions. The most important part of the TFWP hiring process is applying for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which enables Canadian employers to hire eligible foreign workers.

An LMIA proves that no Canadian or permanent resident could fill the job position. The temporary worker you wish to hire must submit a copy of the LMIA or the LMIA number along with their work permit application.

Temporary Foreign work visas are generally divided into open work and employer-specific work permits as outlined below:

  • Open work permit
    • Enables the recipient the right to work for any employer in Canada for a specific period.
  • Employer-specific work permit
    • Grants the prospective immigrant holder to work for a sole Canadian employer for a certain period at a single location.

International Mobility Program

The International Mobility Program (IMP) is designed for international students who have completed a program of study in Canada and wish to gain work experience. Foreigners from countries that have a trade agreement with Canada are eligible to apply.

IMP streams include:

Canada Tourist Visa

The Canada Tourist Visa, also known as the Visitor Visa, is for individuals who wish to visit Canada for tourism purposes. There are mainly two types of Canada Tourist Visa, multiple entry and single entry visas.

  • Multiple-entry Visa
    • This visa will let you enter Canada for multiple periods of up to 6 months over ten years or when your passport next expires. But, once your passport expires, you can apply for a new Canada visitor visa
  • Single-entry Visa
    • This lets you travel to Canada only one time, but this is usually under specific circumstances such as an official visit, fee exemption, special Canadian event, or adhering to approved country guidelines

Canada Student Visa

The Canada Student Visa, also known as the Study Permit, is for individuals who wish to pursue their studies in a DLI in Canada. Foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. Ensure you have all the documents you need before applying. You must apply before traveling to Canada.

Please note that a study permit is not a visa; it, it does not grant entry into Canada. Therefore you may need to apply for and receive a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to gain entry into Canada.

Business Visitor Visa

The Business Visitor Visa is for individuals who wish to visit Canada for business-related purposes such as:

  • Partaking in international business deals
  • Exploring the possibilities for expanding your business
  • Pursuing investment opportunities in Canada
  • Looking to expand your business network

To be allowed into Canada as a Business Visitor, you must have a Canada visitor, an electronic travel authorization (eTA) document, and a valid passport from your country of origin.

Canada Super Visa

The Canada Super Visa is for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. It allows them to stay in Canada for up to two years as many times as possible over ten years.

A super visa lets you visit your children or grandchildren for a period of 5 years. It provides multiple entries for up to 10 years.

Permanent Resident Canada Visas

If you wish to become a permanent resident in Canada, there are two main pathways you can consider: Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Express Entry (FSWP, FSTP, CEC)

Express Entry is a system through which skilled workers can immigrate to Canada. There are three main programs within the Express Entry system:

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Federal Skilled Worker Program

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is an immigration program implemented by the Canadian government to attract and retain skilled workers worldwide. This program aims to fill in gaps in the labor market via foreign nationals with specific skills and professional experience and enhance overall economic growth.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is designed for foreign trade workers with work experience in eligible trade occupations to immigrate to Canada. To be eligible to apply for this program, the skilled trade you possess must be classified in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

If you have any previous experience working and living in Canada through a temporary work permit, you can use the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) to immigrate permanently to Canada. Since temporary foreign workers are more likely to be settled in Canadian society with support networks, they can easily become Canadian permanent residents.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Various Canadian provinces and territories offer Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These programs allow provinces to nominate individuals with the skills and experience required for their specific provincial or territorial labor market needs.

If you don’t have a job offer, learn about the five provincial nominee programs that don’t require a job offer.

How to Apply for a Canada Visa from Uganda

how to apply for a canada visa from uganda

Now that you are familiar with the different visa types available for Ugandans let's dive into the step-by-step process of applying for a Canada visa from Uganda.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you begin the application process, it is crucial to determine which visa category you are eligible for. Review the eligibility criteria for each visa type and ensure you meet all the requirements. This will save you time and effort in the long run.

Step 2: Create an IRCC Online Account

To apply for a Canada visa, you must create an online account with the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. This account will allow you to complete and submit your application online. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information during the account creation process.

Step 3: Gather and Compile the Required Documents

Each visa type has specific document requirements. It is essential to carefully review the document checklist provided by the IRCC website and gather all the necessary documents. This may include your:

  • Passport
  • Proof of financial support
  • Educational certificates
  • Other supporting documents required for your chosen visa type

Step 4: Pay Application Fees and Submit Your Application

Once you have compiled all the required documents, you must pay the applicable application fees. The fees may vary depending on the visa type and processing time.

After paying the fees, you can submit your application through your IRCC online account. Make sure to double-check all the information and documents before submitting.

Find out more about Canada Immigration Processing Fees.

Step 5: Wait for Your Canada Visa Application Processing Time

The processing time for Canada visa applications can vary depending on the visa type and the application volume. It is essential to be patient during this period. You can check the status of your application online using your IRCC account or by contacting the appropriate Canadian visa office

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) can assist you with monitoring and tracking your application, hence we recommend contacting and utilizing their services.

Step 6: Submit Application Processing and Passport Fees

If your Canada visa application is approved, you will receive a notification from the IRCC. You must then submit the application processing fees and your passport to the designated visa office. Once the fees are paid, and your passport is submitted, you will receive your Canada visa.

Why Ugandans Are Moving to Canada

why ugandans are moving to canada

Some of the reasons why Ugandans choose to move to Canada include:

Safety and Security

Canada is known for its high levels of safety and security. According to the World Population Review, Canada is the world’s safest nation. This makes it an attractive destination for Ugandans who, like most other Africans, often deal with unstable socio-political systems and high unemployment, poverty, and crime rates.

This makes Ugandans prioritize personal safety and the well-being of their families when considering which country to immigrate to in Canada.

Multicultural and Diverse Society

Canada is a multicultural and diverse society that celebrates and respects different cultures, religions, and traditions. Ugandans who desire to live in an inclusive and welcoming environment find Canada where they can thrive and contribute to the country's multicultural fabric.

Quality Education

The education levels in Canada are significantly higher than in Uganda. Uganda’s literacy rate is 79% and Canada’s is 99%, a 20% difference depicting far more successful Canada has been in educating its people compared to Canada. Canada’s subsidized education system has played a significant part in Canada’s near-universal literacy levels.

Furthermore, Canada has consistently ranked as one of the most educated countries in the world, with over 50% of the adult population holding a post-secondary educational qualification.

Employment Opportunities

Canada has a strong job market with various employment opportunities in different sectors and worker skills and experience levels. Ugandans with in-demand job skills and qualifications can find rewarding careers in Canada, leading to long-term stability and growth.

Universal Healthcare

Canada’s healthcare system is world-renowned. The country’s subsidized healthcare covers nearly all aspects of primary healthcare provision i.e PET and CAT scans, hospital visits and emergency. Every Canadian citizen or permanent resident can walk into a hospital or clinic and receive medical services from a qualified doctor free of charge.

High Salaries

Canada offers competitive salaries across various industries, making it an appealing choice for Ugandans who seek better economic opportunities. The country's strong economy and high standard of living contribute to the availability of well-paying jobs.

Most occupations in Canada pay a higher wage than their Ugandan equivalent, especially if you’re a skilled Ugandan worker with years of work experience.

Democratic Institutions

Canada is renowned for its democratic institutions and commitment to human rights. Ugandans find Canada an ideal destination for a better quality of life, whose institutional benefits include political stability, freedom of speech, and equality.

Learn more about the democratic structure of Canada’s government.

Career Development Opportunities

Canada offers numerous opportunities for career development and advancement. The country strongly emphasizes education and skills training, allowing Ugandans to upgrade their qualifications and enhance their professional prospects.

Commonly used job skills development programs include:

  • Training workshops
  • Further education
  • Professional development courses
  • Company sponsored occupational retreats

FAQs

How do You Track Applications for Canada Visa From Uganda?

To track applications for a Canada visa from Uganda, you can use the online tracking system provided by the Canadian government. The system allows individuals to check the progress of their application and receive updates on any changes or additional requirements.

How to Travel to Canada From Uganda?

You will need a valid Canadian visa to travel to Canada from Uganda. Once you have obtained your visa, you can make travel arrangements such as booking flights and accommodation. It is also important to ensure that you have the necessary travel insurance and meet any other requirements set by the Canadian government or your airline.